Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Ditto
Hi Tyler, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hey folks, Tyler here—a freelance photographer with a passion for capturing life’s moments through my lens. It all started when I got my hands on a Canon PowerShot at the ripe old age of 12. Back then, I’d film my brothers and I jumping our bikes, riding our skateboards, and flipping around our yard. Those actvities sparked something in me—a love for freezing moments in time.
In my teens, I got hooked on the GoPro craze. Strapping that thing to my bikes, skateboards, poles, and anything I could opened up a whole new world of possibilities. From urban explorations to underwater escapades, I was hooked on capturing the raw, unfiltered essence of life’s adventures.
About six years ago, I made the switch to Sony, and that’s when things got serious. Action and sports photography became my bread and butter. I fell in love with freezing intense moments. I recently have gotten caught up in the product photography world. There’s a thrill in transforming everyday objects into eye-catching visuals—whether it’s sleek gadgets or new inventions. With my camera in hand, I’ve set up shop in studios and clients’ offices, turning visions into reality one shot at a time.
Being a twenty-three-year-old freelancer isn’t always glamour and perfect lighting setups. There are late nights spent editing photos until my eyes feel like sandpaper, and the hustle of finding new gigs keeps me on my toes. But through the ups and downs, photography remains my anchor.
Beyond the client work, I always make time to reconnect with what sparked my passion—those serene moments in nature and the candid laughs shared with friends. Whether I’m chasing sunsets or capturing spontaneous moments, these are the snapshots that remind me why I fell in love with photography.
So, here’s to chasing light, capturing stories, and embracing the journey. As I continue to grow and learn in this ever-evolving field, I’m excited to see where my camera takes me next.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road to becoming a freelance photographer has been anything but smooth, but each challenge has been a stepping stone in my journey. One of the biggest struggles early on was establishing myself and building a portfolio. It took time and perseverance to convince clients to take a chance on a young photographer with big dreams.
Financial stability was another hurdle. Freelancing means fluctuating income, and there were months where I had to hustle hard to make ends meet. Balancing the creative side with the business aspect of photography was also a learning curve. From negotiating contracts to managing invoices and marketing myself, I had to develop skills beyond just taking great photos.
Technical difficulties have also been part of the journey. Learning new equipment is challenging, requiring patience and practice to master new techniques and optimize settings for different types of shoots.
Perhaps the most significant struggle has been self-doubt. In a competitive industry where everyone seems to have a stunning portfolio on Instagram, it’s easy to question your own talent and worth. Overcoming imposter syndrome and believing in my unique vision has been an ongoing battle.
Yet, through all the ups and downs, each challenge has taught me resilience and determination. Every setback has pushed me to improve my skills, refine my approach, and grow as both an artist and a businessperson. It’s these challenges that have made the successes—landing a big client, seeing my work published, or simply capturing a perfect shot—all the more rewarding.
So, while the road hasn’t been smooth, I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. It’s shaped me into the photographer I am today, and I’m excited to continue evolving and pushing the boundaries of what I can achieve with my camera.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in creating stylish and “clean” photos, focusing on meticulous attention to lighting and experimenting with techniques like light painting. My work often revolves around product photography, where I transform everyday objects into visually striking images that captivate the eye.
What sets me apart is my dedication to crafting images that are not just technically sound but also visually compelling. I strive to bring a sense of elegance and clarity to each photograph, whether I’m capturing the sleek lines of gadgets or the intricate details of a new invention.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my ability to blend creativity with technical expertise. I enjoy pushing the boundaries of traditional photography by using innovative lighting techniques and experimenting with different angles to create dynamic compositions.
Clients often appreciate my ability to deliver clean, polished images that align with their brand aesthetics. Whether it’s for e-commerce, marketing campaigns, or editorial features, I aim to create visuals that not only meet but exceed their expectations.
What truly excites me is the process of collaboration—working closely with clients to understand their vision and bringing it to life through photography. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how my images can elevate a product or tell a compelling story.
Moving forward, I’m eager to continue honing my skills, exploring new creative avenues, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with photography. Each project is an opportunity to learn and grow, and I look forward to seeing where this journey takes me next.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The Covid-19 crisis has been a profound teacher, both personally and professionally. Here are a few key lessons I’ve learned:
1. Adaptability and Resilience: The pandemic forced me, like many others, to adapt quickly to new circumstances. Projects were postponed or canceled, and I had to pivot my approach to work. Learning to be flexible and resilient has been crucial in navigating uncertainty.
2. Embracing Remote Work: With in-person shoots often restricted or limited, I learned to embrace remote work and virtual collaboration. This shift encouraged me to explore new ways of conducting shoots and communicating with clients, utilizing technology to maintain productivity and creativity.
3. Community and Support: The crisis brought the photography community closer together. Sharing experiences, tips, and resources with fellow photographers became invaluable. It reinforced the importance of supporting one another during challenging times and collaborating to navigate uncertainties.
It has reshaped how I approach my work, interact with clients, and prioritize my personal and professional development. Moving forward, I carry these lessons with me, knowing they have made me a more adaptable, resilient, and mindful photographer.
Contact Info:
