We recently had the chance to connect with Demetrius Hines and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Demetrius , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
I know I’m not the only one that feels like this, so I will speak for most of the photographers. I think the most misunderstood thing about being a professional photographer is that is most people think that it starts and ends with just pressing a button. People see a beautiful final image and assume that’s all there is to it. The reality is that the time I spend with you during a shoot is only a fraction of my work. What you don’t see is the immense amount of time and effort that goes into the behind-the-scenes process. This includes everything from the initial client consultation and planning the shoot, to scouting the perfect location and understanding the lighting.After the shoot, the work really begins. I spend hours culling through hundreds, sometimes thousands, of images to select the very best ones. Then comes the careful and detailed editing process, where I meticulously color correct, adjust tones, and retouch each photo to make sure it looks its absolute best.
In the end, my business isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about providing a complete experience and delivering a timeless product that you will cherish for years to come. The hours of unseen work are what make the difference between a simple snapshot and a professional, high-quality photograph.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi my name is Demetrius Hines aka Teddy Love I’m a photographer/Creative director, I started teddylovesvisuals officially in 2021. I specialize in candid fashion photography, finding inspiration in the unposed moments of urban life. My goal is to tell a story through street fashion and pop culture, highlighting the details from fashion and adding a little flare of urban culture to it. I think what makes me stands out the most is that some pictures I’ve taken are custom pieces that I’ve created to give a unique spin on street fashion. I’m currently working on finding not only street designers but also models to bring some projects to life. My passion is to bring a creative yet fun experience to my past and future clients.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think one of the common things that can break a bond is the lack of communication. When people stop talking openly, and honestly we start to misunderstand one another and the resentment and assumptions fill the void. It leads to a feeling of being unheard and emotionally disconnected. Another culprit of bond breaking is betrayal and broken trust unlike the lack of communication is big, this one can fracture any type of relationship. Infidelity, lying going back on a promise, or simply sharing a secret. Trust is the glue that holds a bond together and once it is broken, it’s very difficult to repair. So now that I’ve told you some of the things that can break a bond here are a few things that can restore it. Honesty and open communication, This is the first and probably the most crucial step. It involves more than just talking; it requires active listening. Both people must be willing to hear the other person’s perspective without defensiveness. This means using “I” statements to express how you felt (“I felt hurt when…”) rather use “You” could be looked at your making accusations (“You always…”). Other ways to restore broken bonds accountability and apology, patience and consistency, and last but certainly not least is forgiveness.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
DON’T CHANGE FOR ANYONE!! I’ve been punched, I’ve been kicked, I’ve been turned on, I’ve been sidelined, I’ve been ignored and I’ve been lonely. Throughout everything and the grace of God I’ve remained strong and didn’t change when people and the world around me did. I would also tell my younger self to never give up and make sure you see plans though. Continue to be authentic and keep smiling on the rainy days. Remember to keep God in your life no matter what obstacles he puts in front of you.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The photography industry, like any creative field, is full common myths and misconceptions that may limit a photographer’s growth. I think one of the biggest lies told to photographers is that you have to have the most expensive camera to take great photos. As photographers, we know that most high-end gear will offer you certain advantages, but I feel like a great photograph is a result of the vision of the photographer. Countless photos have been made with simple cameras and even smartphones. Truthfully speaking I know I was distracted by the high-end gear when I first got into photography. Another lie is that “you are not good enough” a lot of photographers suffer from imposter syndrome trying to compare to others. This is a self-limiting belief and constant struggle for many of us, the truth is that every photographer is on a unique journey. Growth comes from practice, experimentation, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m in the studio ready to take some dope pictures and have fire playlist playing in the background. I get into that zone where I feel like no one can tell me anything to throw my mood off, I’m locked in!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Teddylovesvisuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teddylovesvisuals
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ theodore-love-571258275
- Twitter: Theodore_Lover
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teddylovesart
- Other: @Teddy.hugs.photography on IG
Image Credits
demetrius hines
