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?
That’s a really good question, and I’m glad you asked. I think the most misunderstood thing about being a professional photographer is that our job 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 flair of urban culture to it. I think what makes me stand 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 future and past clients.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. 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 than using “You” could be looked at your making accusations (“You always…”). Other ways to restore broken bonds are 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 never to give up and to see plans through. 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.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The photography industry, like any creative field, is full of common myths and misconceptions that can hold photographers back. These “lies” are often perpetuated by a combination of marketing, tradition, and a lack of understanding. One of the most common lies is that you have to have the latest gear. While some of the high-end gear will give you certain advantages, a great photo is a result of the photographer’s vision, skill, and storytelling. I have taken incredible photos with simple point-and-shoot cameras, and even with my phone, I think the focus on gear often distracts a photographer’s creative vision and skills. Another lie that a lot of us photographers tell ourselves is that we’re not enough for this business. This is a self-limiting belief that is a constant struggle; we often compare ourselves to others on social media and get stuck in impostor syndrome. The truth is that every photographer is on a unique journey, and growth comes from practice, experimentation, and the willingness to learn from mistakes.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m creating or doing a photoshoot, when I can tell a story through my lens. I have a good playlist on and I lock in! I don’t think anything can distract me from my element.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Teddylovesviasuals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teddylovesvisuals
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theodore-love-571258275
- Twitter: Theodore_Lover
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/teddyart
- Youtube: coming soon
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/Teddy.hugs.photography
