Meet Xavier Thompson

We recently connected with Xavier Thompson and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Xavier , so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?

Overcoming creativity blocks is a challenge I’ve faced multiple times as a photographer, especially when aiming to create unique, high-quality content that reflects my style and connects with my audience. The key to beating these blocks lies in reconnecting with my “why”—the deeper purpose behind my work. Photography has always been more than just taking pictures; it’s a way to express emotions and thoughts without words and to connect with others on a meaningful level.

Practically, I step outside my comfort zone and experiment. Whether exploring a new photography genre, collaborating with others, or taking a break to recharge, these steps reignite my inspiration. Editing, particularly post-production, is a space where I often find new ideas—playing with lighting, color, and composition. This process is not just about perfecting the image but about discovering fresh perspectives. Leonardo da Vinci’s words, “Art is never finished, only abandoned,” resonate deeply with me, reminding me to stay curious and open to possibilities even when progress feels slow.

It’s essential to stay patient, flexible, and passionate. Every block is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine my craft, ensuring I continue creating meaningful work that connects with my clients and myself.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’ve been honing my craft since high school, starting with a Polaroid camera and gradually evolving into a professional artist with a distinct vision. Today, I run TylerX, my photography business focused on commercial photography, including fashion, products, portraits, and landscapes. What excites me most about photography is its ability to connect people and convey emotion without words—a universal language that speaks to everyone in its way.

My commitment to capturing the perfect blend of lighting, composition, emotion, and story in every shot makes my work stand out. I pride myself on being detail-oriented, ensuring that each image reflects my creative style while delivering the message or feeling my clients’ desire. Portrait photography, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just about the technical aspects, but the emotional connection it allows me to establish with my subjects on a profoundly personal level.

As for what’s new, I’m thrilled to have been selected to feature some of my work in the Class of 2024, a photography book by Thames & Hudson. This opportunity has been a monumental step in my artistic career, validating the countless hours I’ve poured into perfecting my craft. It’s been a humbling experience to work alongside talented individuals and be recognized as a published artist.

I’m honored to share that I was recognized as a Student Portfolio Winner in the Photography category at the 2024 Young Ones Portfolio competition, presented by The One Club for Creativity. This prestigious award celebrates emerging talent in advertising, digital communication, and design, and being acknowledged among such a distinguished group of creatives is a significant milestone in my career.

This accolade not only validates my dedication to the art of photography but also fuels my passion to continue creating compelling visual narratives. It is a testament to my countless hours in refining my craft and reinforces my commitment to producing high-quality, meaningful content for my clients. This recognition inspires me to push the boundaries of my work and continue to create visual stories that resonate with a broad audience.

Looking ahead, I am excited to leverage this recognition to expand TylerX further, exploring new creative avenues and collaborations that push the boundaries of visual storytelling. I remain dedicated to connecting with others through my work, expressing universally resonating emotions and stories.

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?

Three qualities have been particularly impactful in my photography journey: resilience, attention to detail, and the ability to connect with others.

1. Resilience – Resilience has been essential in navigating the ups and downs of my career. Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but they’ve taught me the importance of persistence and learning from every experience. My advice to those just starting is to embrace the bumps in the road. Use challenges as opportunities to grow and refine your craft. Remember, success isn’t about never failing; it’s about getting back up and moving forward.

2. Attention to Detail – The details make all the difference in photography. Lighting, composition, emotion, and even subtle nuances in editing can transform a good image into a great one. This skill has been a cornerstone of my work and has helped me stand out in a competitive field. Dedicating time to truly understanding your craft for anyone beginning their journey. Study the technical aspects of your work and practice consistently. Over time, your eye for detail will sharpen, and your unique style will emerge.

3. Ability to Connect with Others – Building relationships with clients and collaborators has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey. My advice is to listen actively, be empathetic, and show genuine interest in the people you work with. Your ability to connect will enhance your work and make the creative process more enjoyable.

To those early in their journey, remember that growth takes time and effort. Stay curious, remain patient, and be open to learning from every experience. Success is built step by step, and each challenge you overcome brings you closer to your goals.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

The most impactful thing my mom did for me was instilling a sense of resilience and belief in myself. She taught me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and to remain focused on my goals, no matter how tough the journey might get. This mindset has been a guiding force in my personal and professional life, allowing me to navigate setbacks and strive for excellence.

My mom also nurtured my creative spirit by encouraging me to pursue my passions. She didn’t just support me passively—she celebrated my achievements, no matter how small, and reminded me of my potential when I doubted myself. Her unwavering faith in my abilities gave me the confidence to chase my dreams fearlessly, whether diving into photography or stepping into new creative ventures.

Her influence shaped the person I am today—someone who values hard work, persistence, and the importance of staying true to oneself. I’m deeply grateful for the foundation she gave me, which continues to inspire me to live a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thetylerx.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.tylerx/