Life & Work with TJ Carr of Carrboro NC

Today we’d like to introduce you to TJ Carr

Hi TJ, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I never really considered building a career in a field like photography until later in life. I had two degrees in fields that I struggled to find work in and decided I wanted a change. I’ve always had an interest in photography since I was old enough to have my own camera as a child. It was always just something in the background that I never focused on. It’s when I bought my first iPhone that rekindled my interest. I now had a phone on me all the time. I considered making the dive into this career path shortly after receiving some push from other artists that I knew. It is funny that the path I chose to take in my mid 30s ended up being the one that would stick and make me happiest. I learned to never be afraid to try something new no matter how old you are. Its not too late.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Every choice has obstacles and if the path is easy then its not going to feel like the accomplishment was worth it in the end. It is very cliche but its true. I have had way more losses than wins.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have spent a lot of years working in the commercial side of photography and video but I have found that my love is working with people and the feeling you get when you find the story and put the puzzle together. I love learning something new from every job Ive had and every choice Ive made. That may be what I am most proud of, the stories told and lessons learned. (that sounds so corny lol)

As far as my work itself, I feel drawn to shapes and patterns as well as the dark and light.

My detail and architecture work is all about finding interesting shapes and patterns. When I started my photo journey, shapes, lines, and patterns drew me in.

Ive noticed that my portrait work trends toward moody and dark at times. I enjoy the mysterious and I think that comes through for sure.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I haven’t had a single mentor, I have had many people that have taught me lessons. I want to learn from every person I work with, I love to collaborate with others because you will always learn something new as long as you stay open.

Get out there and work with others, you will learn. You may not realize the lessons immediately but they are there.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tjcarr.art
• Instagram: tjcarrphoto