My Journey into Photography: From Childhood Memories to Street Captures

Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My journey began with my grandfather, who taught me the basics when I was a kid. He was patient and meticulous, showing me how to frame a shot, adjust for lighting, and capture the essence of a moment. Those moments with him capturing family memories planted a seed that would grow into a lifelong passion.

My first camera

In 2009, I decided to take the leap and buy my first camera, a Pentax K-X with two zoom kit lenses. It wasn’t a top-of-the-line model, but it was enough to give me a taste of what was possible. I started small, capturing everyday moments and parties in DC. It wasn’t long before I turned this budding interest into a business. For years, I poured my heart into event photography and portraits. Capturing events on Capital Hill, performances at the Hamilton, and an occasional birthday party here and there taught me not only technical skills but also how to connect with people through my lens. Each session was a chance to preserve a memory, and I loved the trust my clients placed in me.

Big Tigger at The Park on 14th in Washington DC.

Trayvon Martin's parents, Michael Eric Dyson, Ben Crump

Live performance at The Hamilton Washinton DC.

By 2017, however, something started to shift. While I loved the income and freelance nature of my business, I found myself yearning for more creative control in my photography. That’s when I discovered street photography, specifically black and white street photography. It felt like a natural evolution—an opportunity to combine my technical expertise with the challenge of capturing unscripted moments in everyday life. The streets became my studio, and the world around me became my subject.

Street photography taught me to see beauty in the ordinary and to create something out of nothing. Shooting and creating in black and white brought me back to the world of sketching with graphite and charcoal pencils. Black and white made me think about photography differently. The idea of removing color to take away unnecessary distractions and focus on light, composition, and the moment. Brought back the excitement I was starting to lose in photography. Unlike my earlier work, these images weren’t about perfection or planning. They were about being present, patient, and open to the unexpected.

Live performance at The Hamilton Washinton DC.

Today, I feel more connected to my craft more than ever. Photography has grown with me, evolving from a childhood pastime to a business, and now to a deeply personal form of expression. Every time I pick up my camera, I think back to my grandfather’s lessons and how far I’ve come. My work has shifted, but my goal remains the same: to create art and tell stories that resonate.

As I look to the future, I’m excited to continue exploring, learning, and pushing the boundaries of what I can capture. Evrydy Crftng will be the space where I share all of those lessons, experiences, and memories I have had through my journey with photography.

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