We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Darrion Woodard. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Darrion below.

Alright, Darrion thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I’ve learned most of what I know through a combination of Mentorships, YouTube videos, and Trial and Error. It started with me picking up a camera because I wanted to get higher-quality videos of myself playing piano for my Instagram. Then it blossomed into me exploring different styles and techniques, and studying the greats such as Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, Peter Lindbergh, and Lillian Bassman. It started with my oldest brother (Woody) critiquing my compositions and also letting me know there is no subject, Jeff Wooley showing me how to set up studio lighting, and my photography professor, Mark Flanders, teaching me to dodge and burn. I think that every beginner photographer falls into the gear trap, focusing more on gear than actually making a good composition. I think if you understand what makes a good image, you’ll move along faster in your journey. The most essential skill was understanding lighting; most of my portraits tend to be high contrast, and if you don’t understand lighting, you can’t make your images sing to their full potential. The biggest obstacles would be financial, and making sure you stay the course on your journey.

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.

I’m a photographer who is based out of Los Angeles, California. I strive to have my work be rooted in storytelling, legacy, and making people feel like art. I blend fine art and fashion, so you’ll see different elements run in my work, such as old Hollywood, black excellence, and a Renaissance painting vibe. I got into photography after trying to make music my full-time lane, but once I realized how much emotion and presence I could capture with a camera, I ended up going all in.

What sets me apart is having the vision and the discipline. I don’t just show up and try to make the shot happen; I direct the whole vibe of the shoot from posing, lighting, and wardrobe, and give a clear direction of the image before I shoot it. I’ve been featured on PhotoVogue twice, had my work showcased at the California Yacht Club, and I’m currently building a fine art series I’m planning to pitch to galleries and luxury brands. I’m most proud of the fact that I didn’t wait for anyone to permit me. I came, showed up, and stayed consistent. This isn’t a hobby, this is a calling, and we are just getting started

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I think most non-creatives will struggle to understand how much we contribute and how much we are consumed by our work daily. For many of us, it’s not a job or a passion, it’s our way of existing in the world. We think in images, in rhythm, in light and shadow, and often the work doesn’t stop when the laptop closes; it follows us everywhere. It’s how we process pain, how we chase joy, and how we stay alive.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My mission as a creative is to create. I like creating dope images, but going even deeper, I’m always trying to push my limits and see how far I can take an idea. I get obsessed with the evolution of a concept, and it’s less about just creating one good image and more about chasing what else I am capable of.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://darrionwoodardphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrion_woodard_photography1/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568284002720
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrion-woodard-a2504a338/
• Twitter: https://x.com/darrion724253
• Other: Pinterest

  https://www.pinterest.com/Darrion_Woodard_Photography/

Image Credits

Megan F (Model)
Zairah Musa (Model)
Willow Smith (Model)
Cherry Gatpo (Model)
Elizabet Zhegu (Model)
Niyah Kitchen (Model)
Jaedra DiGiammarino (Model)
Genesis Jackson (SFX & Beauty MUA)