How I Thrive as an Introverted Photographer in Extroverted Genres
The first thing people usually notice about me is my physical presence—I'm a tall, Black man. The last thing they notice, if they notice it at all, is that my natural state is quiet, internal, and observational.
This contrast defines my career. I chose three of the most demanding, extroverted genres in photography: Fashion, Music, and Photojournalism. The irony, as I often reflect, is on me—but it has become my greatest strength. I’ve had to build a methodical, careful system to survive and thrive where others rely on charisma.
The Irony of Choosing an Extroverted Life
When you are an introvert in spaces that demand high energy, your reserves are always low. I can’t rely on being the life of the party; I rely on being the most prepared person in the room.
My introverted nature forces me to be methodical—an essential survival mechanism. If I expend mental energy on unnecessary social interactions, I won’t have the focus left for careful composition and controlled lighting.
I channel my internal quietness into pre-visualization and planning. By preparing wardrobe, styling, and lighting in advance, I create a controllable bubble of calm on set. My energy is focused entirely on executing a vision with clarity.
Race, Perception, and the Price of Presence
Professional work requires high-level emotional labour, and that complexity multiplies when your identity is foregrounded. My physical presence—the very thing that makes me visible—can negate the internal peace I seek.
I’ve had to navigate misunderstandings in charged environments:
Far-right protests: I am often assumed to be an agenda-driven participant rather than a professional documentarian. This can trigger aggressive reactions.
Some minority communities: Moments of anger or distrust arise, with the assumption that I may not care or be genuinely interested, despite documenting important stories.
In both instances, the work is harder. My goal remains clear: visual storytelling without unnecessary complexity.
The Introvert's Toolkit: Translating Internal Focus into Professional Calm
I turn my subdued demeanor into a professional advantage through a three-stage approach:
Pre-Shoot (The Buffer): Every ounce of energy goes into methodical planning. Pre-visualization allows me to arrive on set with a roadmap, reducing decision-making and preserving energy.
On-Shoot (The Shield): Communication is direct, clear, and quiet. I avoid small talk, giving precise guidance instead. This creates a professional, mood-driven atmosphere, allowing me to anticipate angles and balance candid and planned shots.
Post-Shoot (The Firewall): Emotional exhaustion is real. I anchor myself in the discipline of the final product—technical quality, high-resolution exports, and consistent colour grading. The editor’s satisfaction and the images’ impact become the only validation that matters, creating a firewall against external noise.
Earning Authority When You Feel Secondary
Being quiet and careful is sometimes misinterpreted as being secondary, especially in the performative worlds of fashion and music.
The only counter is unquestionable work quality. My role isn’t to be a charismatic performer; it’s to communicate concepts with clarity. The discipline, controlled lighting, and careful composition in the final images speak louder than words.
The Unavoidable Graft
The job is hard. It demands emotional fortitude that sometimes feels impossible. Yet my introversion is a gift for focus, giving me the patience and care required to control chaotic environments.
I chose this path, signing up for the challenge of being the calm, methodical professional in extroverted spaces. My goal remains clear: create images that transcend the immediate drama and serve the story.
If you are a client seeking a photographer whose methodical approach guarantees focused, high-quality, and deeply considered results—no matter the environment—let’s connect.