Meet David Stewart: Photographer + Academic

We had the good fortune of connecting with David Stewart and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
To have something as my own source of income in the event that a I am let go from an employer. Also something to pass to future generations in my family 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is photography. What sets me “apart” is that its just one of me. I study and put in work but always look to add “me” to the work. The ME comes with a background in architecture and business and looking to not only give the client the work they deserve but make something that stands the test of time in memory beyond myself and the client. My growth has been tedious as a professional photographer. I started off as a hobbyist and push myself to be better. Growth is never easy but I have been blessed to have a growing clientele as well as growth as a visual artist. The challenges were numerous but they were all and continue to be overcome by remembering my “WHY”. Knowing one’s WHY is what makes you keep going and navigating all life obstacles to become the vision that one sees for one’s self and I am no different. My story is that of a kid from the South Side of Chicago who dares to take a camera and tell stories like Gordon Parks, create fine art like Peter Lik, and make landscapes visually gratifying along the likes of Ansel Adams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Eternity Coffee House – Downtown Miami. Best Ice Mocha in town. Wynwood Yard for a long walk to appreciate the art. Overtown to appreciate the historical context of Black culture in Miami and how Miami was founded. Coconut Grove to learn about the Bahamian culture and classic houses in Miami Calle Ocho/;Lil Havana for a feel of Cuban culture and how it intersects with Miami.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
As a Man Thinketh, that book changed my view on the world and realizing changing thoughts can change your surroundings

Website: www.y60r.com
Instagram: @year60photog
Twitter: @year60photog

Image Credits
All work by L. David Stewart, ASMP PPA.