TRVAUGHN CLAYTON

AGE: 22

BiRTHPLACE: Gary, IN

Q: When did you know you wanted to pursue photography?

A: When I was younger, I started posting pictures of friends and myself on Instagram. I finally bought my camera when a Nikon D3200 hit the clearance rack, while I was working at Sears.

Q: Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

A: Currently, my biggest inspiration has to be LeBron James. Not even from the basketball point of view but because of his character. He helps the community in major ways and is a great businessman.

Q: How have you grown in your work in recent years?

A: I’ve tried to be more creative with my shoots, different angels, and trying to make nothing out of something.

Q: What childhood memory or artifact influenced you most to date?

A: Back when I was like 13 or 14 years old, Call of Duty was at its highest point. I was heavy into Modern Warfare 2, and I was a “trickshotter.” I was pretty well-known and knew all kinds of famous players. I was good at the game, so people always invited me to play. The only setback was that my family and I couldn’t afford the equipment to take advantage and start a YouTube channel. I always think back on that time and tell myself to keep pushing even harder, especially since I can afford the equipment now.

Q: How much weight do you put on perception of audience?

A: Nowadays, very little. If you pertain to what only the audience likes, then you won’t be creating your own art. Just look on Instagram; people always like the same kind of stuff. Look at a popular portrait page. It’s always the same stuff or whatever is “trending” at the moment. Just focus on what you love and ride your own wave.

Q: What specific culture or period of time do you identify with most in your work?

A: I like to think my work relates more with street culture. A lot of my shots are just day to day things. I am often taking advantage of buildings and what’s in front or next to them. Honestly, I have no idea what I identify with. I just kind of see what I like and go with it.

Q: Where do you prefer to shoot?

A: I prefer to shoot some where in urban places. It usually easy to let your imagination expand and pop.

Q: What do you think is most important to an artist’s progression?

A: Learning from your mistakes and taking criticism from your peers. Shoot as much as you can and be open to new things.

Q: Describe your style of photo in 3 textures or fabrics.

A: Rough, static, and fluorescent sometimes.

Q: Is it important for artists to explain their art?

A: Most of the time, no. I think art expresses itself.

Q: What can be the biggest hindrance to your creativity?

A: In all honesty, finding a model.

Q: What do you prefer: Simplicity or Complexity?

A: Simplicity.

Q: What are some of your favorites out of the projects you’ve completed?

A: My top 3 would be the first photo shoot I did with a clothing brand by the name of “Future Motives”, a BTS photoshoot I did for the cinematographer SceneAmatix, and a concert I shot that was headlined by Pusha T.

Q: If your journey had a movie, what would it be called?

A: What’s Next?

Q: Do you feel energy has an impact on your creativity and your photos? How?

A: Yes. When I shoot, I like to have a certain vision at times, or just be in a great mood. I need that vibe from the model and whomever I’m working with as well. Having an upbeat and fun environment plays into making great art, in my opinion.