The DMV Daily Interviews: Isaiah Stephens
The DMV Daily had the pleasure of speaking with Isaiah Stephens, a 19-Year-Old Professional Photographer from Baltimore, MD. Stephans is now located in Tampa, FL attending the University of Tampa as a double major in News Media & Marketing. Check out our exclusive Q&A down below.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue a career as a photographer?
Isaiah: In my Junior year in high school, I took a digital media class where our assignments were to record and edit photos and videos. After doing some research to make sure being a photographer was a viable career path, I decided to dive headfirst into the art world. Most importantly, however, photography and videography allow me to express my world view, specifically trying to create a more equal and equitable world for people of color.
Q: Are you a detail-oriented person?
Isaiah: I’m very detailed oriented. Often times in life it’s the build-up of the little things that create success, not just one big moment. The essence of life is captured in the details.
Q: Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
Isaiah: My favorite photo I have shot is this shot of an African American veteran in Harbor East, Baltimore. Sadly, the veteran in the photo was suffering from symptoms of PTSD and thus reminding me how our country discards many of our veterans after the wars, specifically veterans of color. Moreover, the photo symbolizes how many people of color feel in America, left alone, treated like numbers instead of people.
Q: Off-Topic: What you eat for breakfast?
Isaiah: Honestly, I don’t normally eat a traditional breakfast. Often, I’m busy during the morning, early bird gets the worm you know?… so I usually will grab some fruit, a few granola bars, and some water to snack on until I can get some lunch.
Q: What type of cameras do you shoot with?
Isaiah: At the moment I shoot with a Canon T7, but in the near future, I’m looking to get the Sony A73.
Q: How long have you been a photographer?
Isaiah: I’ve been a photographer for 3 years, since 2018… Still much more to learn.
Q: What does photography mean to you?
Isaiah: Photography is a stress outlet for me, but more importantly an avenue in which I can change the world. If I’m not eating, sleeping, studying, or talking to the family… I’m taking pictures.
Q: Off-Topic: Who is your favorite music artist?
Isaiah: My favorite musical artist is Robert Nesta Marley. I’m a huge reggae fan because of the “peace, love, and happiness” vibes reggae songs carry. Bob changed the world and stood as a voice for people of color during a time where racial injustice was at its apex.
Q: How do you plan for a shoot?
Isaiah: There are a lot of things that go into planning for a shoot from finding a location, picking a wardrobe, and scheduling time slots. Sometimes it can get hectic, but when it does, I like to take a breather and remember the true purpose of why I’m a photographer… to connect with people, and create a vision/ message.
Q: What, in your opinion, are the most important qualities of a Videographer?
Isaiah: The most important qualities of a photographer/ videographer, would be a fundamental understanding of your camera, lighting, and composition, but most of all, people skills. Being able to understand and communicate with your model is just as important as being able to take the picture. Sometimes, a photographer might even break certain fundamental rules in order to better capture and convey their message/ vision.
Q: Whose work has influenced you most?
Isaiah: The work is done by Key & Peele, being people of color in a predominantly white space, is very inspiring. In addition, more personal to me, photographer Tevin Towns and his vision for helping the next generation through photography has greatly enlightened me, to the bigger purposes of life.
Q: What are your career goals?
Isaiah: My goal is to become a well-known photographer, with a big enough platform where I can create systemic change for people of color. I will rewrite the stereotypes, provide a platform for the less fortunate to speak upon and help shed light on those who may look down upon us.
You can view Isaish’s portfolio at zaedizzy.weebly.com. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @zaedizzy
