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

Ron, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

Honestly, I never imagined I’d be pursuing the path in photography that I find myself on today. It sort of found me. While majoring in photography in college, I didn’t step into the professional realm until 2021, when I booked my first client. Since then, the love and support I received from that photoshoot made me realize that God had set me on a path for which I’m incredibly grateful. I’ve remained consistent ever since, seizing more opportunities to collaborate with other creatives and contribute artistic insight to their projects.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Derrick Dheron Springfield better known as “Ron”, “Ronnie”, or “Ronnie4Digital.” I’m a photographer, videographer, graphic designer, – basically, if it involves creating, I’ve probably done it. Although I’m more known for my photography.

I began my journey in high school during my senior year after quitting band and needing an extra class to fill my schedule. Initially, I didn’t take the photography class seriously, but my teacher recognized my talent and encouraged me to consider photography as a serious career option.

After high school, I enrolled at the University of North Texas, majoring in photography. There, I gradually built my expertise in the industry, learning about lighting and gaining confidence with my camera. My career began to take shape when I started taking photos of friends at house parties, which led to booking gigs. My first significant shoot was a James Bond concept I did in my apartment for a close friend, using my newly acquired home studio which ultimately became my main studio for future shoots.

Most of my shoots focus on birthday, lifestyle, and sports photography. I enjoy birthday and lifestyle shoots because they allow me to bring my clients’ ideas to life while maintaining creative direction. Often, clients aren’t always confident in their creative abilities, and I help guide them to realize their visions. I believe creativity exists in everyone and in everything we do, from styling clothes to decorating homes. Everyone is creative in their own special way.

I also love sports photography because of my background in sports. Though I no longer play, I still enjoy the atmosphere. Sports photography captures unique narratives and powerful, one-of-a-kind moments that convey deep emotions.

In the creative space I find myself in, I never see competition. It’s more of a concept of iron sharpens iron for me. When my peers alongside me drop their latest work, I’m very excited to see what they’ve done, and it truly inspires me to lock in and focus on my work to improve so when I’m able to release my work, I get the same feedback from them.

Throughout my work in photography and other creative outlets, I want society to know that sometimes going simple goes a long way. As an artist, I don’t find myself doing too much or pushing the limits of creativity to make something beautiful. Don’t get me wrong, there’s always a time and place to experiment and create something society can’t anticipate, but that’s just not my style. There have been times when I stepped outside the norms of art and even surprised myself. That’s the beauty of art in general – you never know what will emerge form your imagination.

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

I know everyone says, “I want to be the best that I can be,” but I want to go beyond that. I aspire for my work to be on the level of Atiba Jefferson, Carrie Mae Weems, and Picasso, if not better, as my career progresses. That’s the mindset I have because there is no plan B for me-I’m all in. That’s my goal and what drives me. One day I want my work to be seen in museums.

My creative journey is not only to create aesthetic appealing visual art but also to branch out into other fields such as music and fashion. I aim to have my own studio where I can create whenever I want and provide a space for others to do the same.

Additionally, I aspire to be a sports photographer, doing creative shoots for college and professional sports teams, and brands such as Nike, Jordan, or Adidas just to name a few. Ultimately, I hope to become a team photographer for a sports team in the future. That’s truly what I have my eyes set on.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Reflecting on my journey as an artist, I often think about how my younger self would view me today. I never imagined pursuing art seriously, but always knew I had a creative spark. Knowing that 10-year old me would think I’m the coolest person in the world because of what I do is incredibly fulfilling.

Another aspect that brings me joy as an artist is the silent impact of my work. I’m a humble person and prefer not to boast, but hearing others speak positively about my work truly warms my heart. Whether it’s seeing my photography used as cover art an artist I admire, featured on a brand’s website, or showcased on a client’s Instagram to commemorate a special moment, I’m amazed that someone trusted me with their vision and that I could bring it to life in a way that creates lasting memories.

This sentiment is encapsulated in my tagline, 4EVER Digital, signifying my commitment to creating timeless and meaningful art that resonates with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ronnie4digitalphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronnie4digital/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-springfield/
• Other: Email: [email protected]