FAQ
Why is your Tumblr entitled “Twelve?”
My favorite number is twelve.
Where are you from/what’s your story?
I was born in the west of the United States, moved around some and lived a large part of my life in the south. I have since moved to New York City.
My father sparked my interest in photography and the outdoors while my mother fostered the fine arts side. I detest milk, I rarely dream and am an avid list maker.
What did you go to school for/where do you work?
I graduated in May 2012 with a degree in Visual Communications and Graphic Design from the University of South Carolina. I now work full time at a design firm in Tribeca called Zago. At Zago, my projects range from illustration, photography, film, animation, wireframing and managing social media.
What is your dream job?
I don’t have one dream job anymore, but I do have a hit list. A few of the things on that list are working on a documentary, illustrating titles for a film, and teaching at the university level.
Though, a job in data visualization wouldn’t be too bad.
How do you get all of the opportunities to travel?
My parents are big travelers themselves and it is extremely important to them that my brother and I’s horizons be expanded by experiencing places and cultures other than the ones we grew up in. It’s stuck with me - I seek out opportunities through creative and academic outlets to travel and work in new places. I have been to over a dozen countries and all fifty states.
All athletic related questions:
Cycle: A fixed gear Pinarello and a Fuji road bike in the USA. A Raleigh road bike in the Netherlands. Shimano clips/cleats.
Run: Mizuno Wave Inspired 9.
Skate: Loaded Dervish and Sector 9 Haleiwa. All bamboo, all Orangatang wheels.
I want to start designing/photographing, what do I do?
Here are some ideas:
1. Start a project. If you aren’t creative every single day it becomes very difficult to progress and differentiate yourself from the pack.
2. Keep a folder/list of inspiration. Whether that be blogs, creative companies, clips from Tumblr, magazine pages ect. It helps when the creative block comes in and will keep your flow fresh.
3. Start a visual diary. For me, it’s all about blogging. It really helps you track your work and creative process chronologically. 9 times out of 10 employers like seeing that creative process more than the final product. Whenever I look through my archive I am impressed with how I’ve progressed in many facets as an individual.
4. Work harder than everyone else. As industry standard equipment and software becomes accessible to anyone with the slight inclination to begin a creative career the pressure grows. Challenge yourself by giving yourself deadlines, self-initiating projects, and seeking advice from working creative professionals. If you depend on only the classroom to teach you - you’ll drown.
5. Market yourself. C’mon, all of these social networks are more useful than scanning your news feed for the photos from last night’s party.
What camera should I buy/other equipment and software related questions:
Do the research. I am personally Canon-biased but some of the photographers I am inspired by are avid Nikon users. Read reviews and go to your local electronics store and TRY THEM YOURSELF.
I currently shoot with a Canon 7D and various lenses. I use CS6 programs for photos and designs and Premiere Pro/After Effects to edit and animate video.
