We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Reagan Stoyko a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Reagan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
At first, photography was just something I did for fun. I would shoot small concerts of bands in my area that I liked, or my high school’s marching band, because my best friends were in the band. I started to get serious about it a couple of years ago when I was able to capture moments and memories for my friends that were so special. Seniors who were graduating and performing for the last time, really special concerts/shows, that’s what gives me a purpose to do what I do. I want to help people preserve memories they wish could last forever.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Reagan Stoyko, and I’m a recent graduate of the Medina County Career Center for Media Production. I will be attending Cleveland State University in the fall, majoring in Film and Media Arts. Being at MCCC, I had the opportunity to represent my lab and compete in the SkillsUSA Photography competition at the Regional, State, and National level. My lab teacher at MCCC, Tyler Hill, has been a big help in my journey. He taught me everything from how to actually use a camera up to how to tell a story without words. Without him I wouldn’t be where I am today, he’s been a huge help in figuring out not only what I want my future to be, but that it’s possible. I first got into photography by taking photos of my high school’s color guard during practice. I myself used to be in drumline, so I had many friends in the band. I always attend smaller concerts in Cleveland, and one band in particular I go see a lot is the orchestral synth-pop band Recess. They were the ones who helped me realize that, in general, photography is what I’m meant to do, but, more specifically, the performing arts. In my last 2 years of high school, I got in touch with many high schools and Indoor Marching Arts programs in my area. Notably, I’ve worked with Matrix Performing Arts, Rangerettes Winter Guard, and Rogues Hollow Regiment. Along with working in the performing arts, I liked to hopefully be able to work in sports media, especially hockey. I’ve had multiple opportunities to photograph the Cleveland Monsters hockey team this past season.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My biggest goal is honestly to make a living out of my career, to be able to go to work and be happy about it. I know a ton of people who can’t stand their job, and it’s a chore to them, I even feel like that about my current job. However, when I’m doing any sort of shoot, it’s a way different feeling. I’m in my element, and I feel like I’m there for a reason, that it’s my purpose. I want to go big places, I want to tour with bands being a photographer or work in the NHL, I want to do what everyone believes as “impossible”.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding part of being a photographer is when I deliver photos to a client, and they’re in love with my work. On many occasions, I’ve had people tell me that my photos have helped them feel better about themselves and the way they look, and that is one of the best compliments I feel like you could get. I’ve been able to capture many special moments for people and help them keep those moments alive.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sites.google.com/view/reaganstoykophotography/home
- Instagram: @reagan.photographyyy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reagan-stoyko-237159402/
- Youtube: @reaganstoyko
Image Credits
Reagan Stoyko