photographer / marketing strategist / creative director / event producer / cultural liaison / speaker

About

Photo by Nneka Odum

Hello, World

 

I am a proud Dayton, OH native currently living in New York, New York. I graduated from The Ohio State University in the summer of 2011. Following graduation, I made a personal commitment to spend more time on creative endeavors, mainly photography, as it's always been an area of interest for me.  And slowly, but surely, my hobbies have turned into my profession.

Currently, I am a self-employed photographer, consultant, social strategist, and event coordinator. Formerly General Manager, Photographer, Social Media Coordinator, and Buyer at Columbus, OH’s only true lifestyle sneaker boutique, Sole Classics

Personally, I spend a lot of time working on photography projects and concepts. My photojournalism projects are usually inspired by social misconceptions. I like shaping and uplifting the culture by imagery. I enjoy painting when I'm not busy with visual projects and commissions. I really enjoy sharing and spreading ideas that have empowered and or motivated me, I do this through any medium I can. I founded The Idea of Being Somebody (TIOBS®) in 2011, a social lifestyle movement based on three principles: self-determination, self-education, and self-initiative. TIOBS® Spreads messages of self-actualization through clothing and web posts on TIOBS.com

Much of my inspiration comes from people and their relatable, but unique experiences. I love hearing about each person's individual story and path. I'm fascinated by reality and authenticity. Reality can be tough to deal with, so it's inspiring to learn how people get over their hurdles in life. Lately, I've been very inspired by unity and acceptance. The older I get, the more I notice how divisive we are as people, divided by a multitude of simple, cultural characteristics that hold no moral or ethical weight. The bridges we create between each other, consciously and subconsciously, reinforce our fears and judgements that are derived from our lack of understanding; ultimately deterring us from positive relationships. I'm uplifted and thankful for all of the authentic connections I've shared with people over the years, especially the people that possess characteristics that are unlike my own.