Dimitry Loiseau is a commercial and fashion photographer whose work has been seen in fashion publications, advertising campaigns and album covers. Dimitry is originally from New York and now resides in Los Angeles. His French and West Indies roots, as well as his extensive travels has helped him to be well versed in other areas of photography.
Dimitry has provided photography for commercial clients, celebrity portraiture, and travel destinations. His work has been featured in various media outlets that include Harper’s Bazaar, Vanity Fair, Cosmopolitan, L’Officiel, Glamour, ELLE, People Magazine, NY Post and more!
His purpose is to capture the essence of his subjects through the medium of photography using his attention to detail and efficient work ethic. Dimitry currently serves as the Creative Director & Chief Editor for Regard Magazine, a celebrity fashion & lifestyle digital publication, in which he co-founded.
Some of the celebrity talent that he’s photographed include Paris Hilton, Brian Tyree Henry, Octavia Spencer, Meghan Markle, Regina King, Sarah Wayne Callies, Derek Fisher, Roselyn Sanchez, Sterling K. Brown, Wendi McLendon-Covey, Taryn Manning, Tricia Helfer, and Keke Palmer.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DIMITRY LOISEAU
Can you tell us a little about your childhood, cultural background and when did you decide to become a photographer?
I grew up in Brooklyn, New York in a middle class family. Both my parents were immigrants from the West Indies. And so, they installed some cultural values of working hard, having an education, and being productive members of our community. I was actually in college, my third year as an undergrad, with plans on going to med school when I decided to drop out and embark on a career as a photographer. It wasn’t the best news that I shared with my parents, especially because they came to the U.S. seeking better opportunities for themselves and our family. You could say that I went off script.
What about education in photography and visual communication? Do you think is important before launching a career in photography or talent is enough?
I myself am a self-taught photographer and visual director. Nonetheless, I’m not opposed to those who have went to school for it. I think there are pros and cons to consider and you really have to do what works best for you. Although I didn’t have a formal education in photography and visual communication, I was always interested in learning more about my craft. I’ve read books, attended seminars, worked with other photographers and have taken advantage of free information online from other working professionals. All of these things have contributed to my overall knowledge base about the world of photography. Of course, talent is a must. Without it, I think it would be quite difficult to have a career in photography. But more so, applying what you learned, either in school or how I learned, is necessary for growth.
Do you consider any possibility in the future to create photography workshops in person or online?
As a matter of fact, yes! I’m at a point in my career where I want to give back. I want to be able to help people learn more about photography and get into the business. There’s plenty of room for those who want to apply themselves. Especially for young people who are in communities that don’t have opportunities like I’ve had. Passing the torch is a responsibility, it’s an act of kindness and that in itself, is a real legacy.
How would you describe your style as a photographer and why?
I would say that my style is classic and timeless. I really make it a point to create images that invoke the feeling or emotion of placing yourself in that very setting. So, whether I’m photographing someone or a particular travel destination, I hope that viewers can imagine themselves in that photograph and having it make a lasting impression on their minds.
What’s your favorite place where you feel more inspired?
I love Thailand, any island outside of Bangkok. There’s a measure of peace and tranquility that exist there. You can breathe, you’re actually encouraged to breathe, to take your time and absorb nature, which is life. It’s not high fashion like Paris or glamorous like Hollywood. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle, focus on your thoughts and be as imaginative as you can.
How challenging is the business part for a creative like you?
The creative aspect is the easy part! The business, that’s the real challenge. It’s managing client expectation, your finances and expenses, and learning how to constantly pivot in an ever changing industry. You have to stay 6 steps ahead of your competitors and anticipate what may come. As challenging as it may be at times, it’s necessary for survival and success.
Would you like to create photography exhibitions in the near future?
Absolutely! I think it’s a fantastic way to showcase your work in an impressive way. We’re all used to seeing images in magazines, and now on social media platforms. But there’s nothing like having a gallery show of your work. I’ve been working on a project with celebrity talent that will showcase them in ways that quite possibly you’ve never seen them. It’s been taking some time, just because everyone’s schedule is crazy and of course we’ve lost some time and momentum over the pandemic. But things have picked back up and I’m excited to get this going and showcasing in 2023. I’ll be making announcements on my social media platform when its ready to go!
KREEP. 