The underdog artist who refuses to quit
An unsuspecting photographer is making his presence known throughout the west coast, and is slowly gaining the attention of world. Daveed Benito is a recognized art photographer that has a variety of images that captivate and inspire. Daveed’s recognition has been limited to the reaches of the state of Arizona in which he resides. It was not until recently that things took a dramatic turn for success.
Daveed Benito claims to be a purely self-taught photographer who has had multiple photographs grace the covers of local magazines to full spreads in national and international publications. His work can be seen now in art galleries, restaurants, bars and most malls in North America. However, this was not a normal journey he emphasizes. “I started this career right out of the Air Force basically homeless. It was truly a pipe dream, but I was first published in only six months of picking up my first camera,” says Daveed. He is humbled by his surroundings, and always excited when his photography is on display for others to appreciate. Daveed works with a variety of individuals, which include some known talent and celebrities. “Celebrity or not, they are all just humans. My goal is to capture them in the best light,” he states.
Currently, Daveed has started a campaign on the popular funding site Kickstarter.com. He is attempting to raise funds to finish a documentary about his life in photography, which encompasses the life of a starving artist. “It’s not just about me, it’s about how a broke artist fights to earn a living and respect as an artist,” which is something most artists can relate to he believes. It is also about a culture of artists that need guidance and the understanding that if you have the ambition you can create success without having any money. Ultimately, where there is a will there is a way. Although Daveed has never had financial assistance, he understands that the growth of his success will require some capital. At this time, he is working on several advertisement campaigns and taking time on his own to create more visually stimulating images. Daveed feels that the creation of his artistic photography is still in its baby stages. “I started this venture in 2006 and taught myself everything I know about the craft, but I understand that I am just at the tip of the iceberg and have much to learn.”
In late 2012, Daveed Benito was approached by a publishing company (Get Down Art) based in Las Vegas and asked if he would have interest in a contract to license his work throughout the world. Since the signing, it has been a success and his work is trending like wildfire. Daveed has limited his client base more now to focus on what he calls “making a mess” which translates to producing a photo shoot. He is known for trashing his own studio to capture the outrageously creative images he wants. “Trashing” may seem harsh, but this photographer does everything from throwing gallons of milk on models, setting fires, to using thirteen gallons of maple syrup for a single photo. This is just to name a few of his “messes” “which are all for the sake of creating art. The documentary he is planning on filming will show the entire creative process to include what he terms “making a mess” from start to finish.
Daveed Benito has gained quite the fan base that grows daily. Those who follow his work know that every few months his work not only improves, but continues to push the boundaries of the photography world.
Website: DaveedBenito.com
Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/daveedbenito/the-evolution-of-an-artist
Instagram: instagram.com/daveedbenito
Twitter: twitter.com/DaveedBenito
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