Photographer Spotlight: Dani Aristizabal

When I show up to shoot, Dani is calm, cool and collected, despite the fact that he shoots with film and has about 50 frames to get a good shot, just a fraction of what he would have shooting digitally. He’s composed for a good reason, Dani knows what he’s doing. He favors natural light and settings and captures the light in such a way that the colors of these raw backgrounds pop. The result makes it hard not see each of Dani’s photos as individually composed works of art, each their own kind of light painting.

I caught up with Dani and had the chance to ask a bit more about his experiences with the photography realm and advice that he has for others wanting to pursue photography:

So I know your career was headed a different direction before, can you tell me a bit about that? 

I've began to notice that I was falling in the social media trap of constantly seeking approval of my art from others. As I changed my style to fit what's "in" I noticed changes in my character. When an artist begins to lose who they are for fame and recognition he loses what makes him an artist. 

 How did you get your start in photography?

 My mom gave me a camera and went through a ton of rolls. I didn't see those pictures until 10 years later but I knew when I first held that camera I loved the art medium. 

 What is your favorite part of the creative process? 

Seeing the collision of two minds coming together to create images with light. I always include the models I work with into the creative process. 

What inspires you in the creative process and in your photography?

 Seeing the art work of Richard Avedon or Grant Wood. I love just the simplicity of this world

What is the best advice you have for others wanting to get started in this industry? 

You will always fail if you wake up believing that you know yourself fully or have a concrete style. Always be willing to be surprised by yourself and what odd musings form in the crevices of your mind. 

Where do you see yourself professionally in the future?

I'd like to help other photographers learn more about the art but also have my own studio while at it

Get in touch with Dani on instagram @the_3rdestate