We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Demetric Blyther a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Demetric, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you been able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen? Was it like that from day one? If not, what were some of the major steps and milestones and do you think you could have sped up the process somehow knowing what you know now?

When I bought my first camera during the pandemic, I didn’t think much of it. I just needed something to break up the monotony of being at home. At first, it was all about experimenting, finding beauty in the little things, taking pictures of my wife and kids, the way sunlight hit a coffee cup, the quiet streets, the tiny moments of stillness. It gave me a sense of purpose in a time when everything felt so uncertain. I started sharing my photos online, just for fun, and to my surprise, people loved them. Friends started asking for portraits, and then friends of friends reached out for events and small projects.

At some point, it clicked. I wasn’t just taking pictures anymore. I was creating something meaningful, and people saw value in that. The decision to go full-time wasn’t easy; leaving the stability of my previous work felt risky. But I couldn’t ignore what I’ve built with a camera in my hand. So, I took the leap, and it’s been the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done. What started as a way to fill time became a way to tell stories, connect with people, and build something I’m truly proud of. Looking back, it feels surreal that a small pandemic hobby could change my life so completely, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Demetric, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Since the day I picked up my camera, my goal has always been to tell meaningful stories. Whether I’m capturing the energy of a corporate event, the joy of a 300-person wedding, or the intimacy of a courthouse ceremony with just five guests, I strive to preserve the unique moments that matter most. Based in the DMV area, the place I proudly call home, I’m happy to travel wherever a story needs to be told.

The pandemic brought its share of challenges, but it also gave me the chance to slow down and truly see the world around me. I began documenting everything—from the simple joys of my children at play to the stunning landscapes of DC. What started as a way to pass the time evolved into something much bigger: a full-time career rooted in my love for storytelling through photography.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Spend as much time as you can connecting with the community around you—it’s one of the most valuable things you can do in any creative field. Meeting others in your industry, whether through workshops, events, or online groups, can save you from countless mistakes by learning from their experiences and insights. It’s also a source of motivation when things get tough; having people who understand the ups and downs of your journey can make all the difference. Creative work can feel isolating at times, but being part of a supportive network reminds you that you’re not alone, helps you stay inspired, and keeps you focused on why you started. The relationships you build along the way will not only shape your growth but also make the process much more rewarding.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My family is the heart of my creative journey and the reason I do what I do. They inspire me to see the beauty in life’s fleeting moments, from my children’s laughter to the quiet, everyday connections we share. Their love and unwavering support remind me of the importance of capturing and preserving these memories—not just for myself, but for others. They’ve taught me to approach my work with intention and purpose, turning photography into more than just a career; it’s become a way to create a legacy of meaningful stories. Everything I create is rooted in the love and inspiration they give me every day.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://untdphotography.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/_unitedphotography_