Becoming a Dallas Event Photographer: The Journey

When my son was a toddler, he affectionately named me a ‘Totographer,’ a title I proudly wear to every Dallas event photography job, every Dallas headshot, every portrait, every… everything. I am a photographer, an artist by nature, always observing, always looking, always taking in. And of course… always shooting. 

I got my first camera from my grandmother as a Christmas gift. She’s always been the best gift giver, even now to my three young children. She gives thoughtful gifts that inspire creativity, artistic expression and imagination. What more could a kid want? For that matter - what more could an adult want?!

I can still remember how the camera felt in my hands, my mind bursting with creative energy and possibility. Little did I know, that simple gift was about to change my life. 

I dove deep into photography, nearly obsessively photographing my world - from lego builds to our unhinged Blue Heeler to things I found in nature while camping throughout Texas and Colorado. I was enamored with photography, and I wanted to make it my life’s work. 

As a parent myself, I half expect every interest of my children to ebb and flow in and out throughout their childhoods and teen years. But then I remember myself. Photography didn’t ebb and flow for me. It was a constant rushing river from that first camera until now. It is my passion and my lifelong pursuit. 

I started getting paid gigs before I hit the age of 20. I studied Photojournalism at the University of North Texas, and I started freelancing for The Dallas Morning News. Everything I covered was interesting to me. Why? Because I was holding a camera. Behind a lens, the world opens up in unexpected and fresh ways. My background boasts years of training under some of the best in the business - I was eager and hungry for the craft of photography. 

I’ve got a little tidbit for you. I know the trick to becoming an excellent Dallas event photographer, Dallas headshot photographer or any other type photographer - WORK HARD AND GROW. That’s it. Simple, right? Work hard, keep learning, keep honing your skill, keep growing. 

There is no recipe for becoming a great photographer. I started as a young kid. Some of my most talented teammates at JWCannon Creative started in their 20s. I know other respected photographers who had full careers before ever picking up a camera. 

Work hard, keep growing. The team I’ve curated at JWCannon Creative is full of photographers who fit that description. Stagnant isn’t an option. We grow and advance so we can provide your event the best photography in town.

Here’s to growing, my friends. Let’s keep at it!