We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Blaine Dean. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Blaine below.
Blaine, so great to have you with us and we want to jump right into a really important question. In recent years, it’s become so clear that we’re living through a time where so many folks are lacking self-confidence and self-esteem. So, we’d love to hear about your journey and how you developed your self-confidence and self-esteem.
It took considerable time for me to cultivate a sense of self-esteem and confidence, especially considering that during my upbringing, there were few instances where I felt encouraged to take pride in myself. This circumstance was not attributable to any individual’s actions, but rather to my own reluctance to express my feelings of inadequacy or lack of confidence. Throughout the formative years of my life, I often experienced a pervasive sense of not fitting in or not measuring up. However, a pivotal moment arose when I earnestly delved into the study of photography, treating it with greater seriousness. This endeavor compelled me to engage with others and showcase the remarkable work I was producing, thereby bolstering my confidence. It illuminated to me that I possessed valuable contributions to offer to the world.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am Blaine Dean, an experienced photographer proudly representing Long Beach as both my birthplace and current base of operations. My journey into the world of photography began in 2004 during my high school years, initially experimenting with my cell phone camera without much seriousness. However, the spark of passion was ignited, leading to a pivotal moment in 2006 when I received a small blue Sony Cyber-shot camera upon my high school graduation. This marked the beginning of my dedicated exploration into the art of photography.
While working at Bubba Gump Shrimp Company in Long Beach and attending LBCC in 2007, I decided to delve deeper into photographic studies, spurred on by the support of family members who gifted me my first DSLR, a Nikon D40. This camera became a cherished companion, opening up new horizons in my photographic journey.
In 2009, I joined Segway of Long Beach as a tour guide and company photographer, a role that not only allowed me to hone my photography skills but also helped me overcome my introverted nature through interaction with large groups. Despite momentarily taking a backseat to focus on fatherhood after the birth of my sons in 2012 and 2014, my passion for photography remained steadfast.
It wasn’t until 2017, with the acquisition of the Nikon D7000, that I found my stride and realized my aspiration to pursue photography professionally. This transition was further propelled in 2019 when my aunt gifted me the Nikon Z6, a gesture that not only bolstered my confidence but also solidified my commitment to the craft.
Beyond equipment upgrades, meeting my wife in 2019 proved to be the most significant turning point in my journey, as her unwavering support and encouragement propelled me forward in my career. Currently, I am enrolled in the UCLA Photographer program, seeking to expand my knowledge and refine my skills while simultaneously growing my photography business.
Throughout my career, my work has been featured in esteemed events and publications, such as the 2023 Femme it Forward “Give Her Flowhers” event, as well as gracing the covers of Black Cruze Mag and Sewn Magazine. Additionally, I have been honored with recognition in the Best Photography of 2011 hosted by the Photo Forum.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
In summarizing the three most crucial qualities of a photographer that have profoundly impacted me, they would be as follows:
1. “A camera is only as good as the individual holding it” underscores the significance of skill and expertise over the mere quality or cost of equipment. True mastery of photography demands patience, practice, and persistence.
2. Embracing the concept of giving oneself grace is paramount, particularly in the pursuit of developing a distinctive photographic style. This process entails perseverance and gradual evolution, culminating in a style that organically reflects one’s personality and artistic vision.
3. Arguably the most invaluable lesson from my journey is encapsulated in the aphorism “Don’t take a picture, make a picture.” This admonition emphasizes the importance of deliberate intentionality in every aspect of image creation, ensuring full control over the final outcome through thoughtful consideration before capturing the moment.
What has been your biggest area of growth or improvement in the past 12 months?
Over the past twelve months, my most significant area of growth has been the realization of the need for professional assistance, leading me to pursue therapy. I strongly advocate for anyone experiencing uncertainty, grappling with self-esteem issues, or undergoing personal challenges to explore therapeutic avenues. This decision proved instrumental in enhancing my confidence, refining my communication skills, bolstering my sense of self-worth, and aiding in the resolution of past traumas, which often impede progress. Following the conclusion of my therapy sessions, I experienced a notable shift in my approach to life, my dedication to photography, and an overall increase in personal happiness. This transformative journey represents the most substantial growth I have ever witnessed within myself.
Contact Info:
- Website: Blainedeanmedia.com
- Instagram: @blainedeanmedia
Image Credits
All photos uploaded, were taken by myself.
