Conversations with Tyler McAuley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler McAuley

Hi Tyler, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
When I was 15 I discovered Photoshop and fell in love with editing! I loved the fact that you could make a picture into whatever you wanted! I would have my friends send me pictures they took so I could edit them but I didn’t pick up a camera myself for about another 10 years. After graduating high school, I attended East Carolina University in Greenville, NC where I received my BFA in professional acting. After graduating I moved to Chicago so I could join the Second City Improv. After a year of classes I had a great opportunity to intern for a casting company named P.R Casting. Through them I was able to land an agent and have had the opportunity to be in a handful of national commercials and TV shows such as Chicago Fire and Shameless. Even though I have had some great acting opportunities I have always loved photography and editing! After about a 3 month period where I had not landed an acting job I felt like I still needed a creative outlet and since I always loved photography I thought maybe it was time I start taking pictures myself rather than just editing others that people would send me. I have been taking pictures for about 10 years now and currently have photos hanging in a handful of galleries all around the world! In 2017 I was named one of Chicago’s top up and coming artist by the Culture Trip and one of Chicago’s top 10 contemporary photographers! I try and use my acting training in every shoot I do to try and capture an emotion or a feeling in the shot so it can be more than “just a picture”. Even though photography started as a hobby for me, over the past 10 years it has transitioned into a full time job and I couldn’t be happier about it! I hope to do this for the rest of my life!

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a challenging journey with numerous ups and downs. A few years ago, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which sidelined me for approximately two years. However, over the past three years, I have successfully returned to my pursuits

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As an artist, I am deeply passionate about capturing the essence of human expression and movement. My work primarily focuses on fine art photography, portraits, and dance photography. I specialize in creating images that tell a story, evoke emotions, and highlight the beauty of the human form in motion.
I am known for my ability to blend technical precision with artistic vision, creating photographs that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. My portraits aim to reveal the inner world of my subjects, while my dance photography captures the grace, power, and fluidity of dancers in their element.
One of the achievements I am most proud of is my series on contemporary dance, which has been featured in several exhibitions and publications. This series not only showcases the incredible talent of the dancers but also explores themes of freedom, struggle, and transformation.
What sets me apart from others is my unique approach to lighting and composition. I often experiment with unconventional angles and lighting techniques to create dramatic and dynamic images. Additionally, my background in Theater and dance gives me a deeper understanding of movement, allowing me to anticipate and capture the perfect moment.
Ultimately, my goal is to create photographs that resonate with viewers on a profound level, sparking curiosity, inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the art of photography.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
In addition to my friends and family I would say Tyler Sheilds has be not only a large influence in my work but a great mentor helping me along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jmphotography23.mypixieset.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jm_photography23?igsh=MWRrdWR1YjcxNHJydg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tyler.mcauley.3?mibextid=LQQJ4d