Behind The Lens: Dill35mm
Written by Greg Harris
The Behind The Lens series is starting to picking up more with diversifying the selections of the photographers who are broadcasting their work. We have crossed various paths across the country, but we return to the swamps of Florida where some of the grittiest forms of art are getting created. It’s depicted in the raw concert scene that carried with their rising artists, but credit has to be given to those who have captured this action and make it as iconic.
One of the leading forces in the creative community in Florida is Dill35mm. In a short period, he started professional photography and captured the likes of Trippie Redd, Post Malone, and XXXtenatcion’s most personal photos. Instead of just getting the highlights of the show, Dill brings a vintage backstage essence that makes each layout of portraits a personal experience that the viewer can leave with.
We recently caught up with the Orlando based photographer about his upbringing, his style of photography, doing this for a short period, and more.
Read below.
How’s Your Modern Life?
I’m doing pretty good right now.
What are three things you have to do when you first wake up in the morning?
Check my phone.
Brush my teeth.
Find something to eat.
Coming up in Florida, how was your upbringing in Orlando?
I actually grew up in Land O Lakes, ust outside of Tampa Florida. Its red neck as shit. There was never much to do so my friends and I would always drive around doing stupid stuff and get in trouble. My family were solid middle class so we never really were hurt for money.
Coming up in Central Florida, how is growing up there compared to the rest of the state of Florida?
Orlando is wild there are so many types of people here. I don’t know what it’s like to come up anywhere else so I’m not sure.
What inspired you to get into photography?
Gunner Stahl, period.
What were some defining moments for you when you first started to get into photography?
Well I first got into photography just taking photos of my friends partying and stuff and they would always tell me I had an eye for it so that was like the motivation to transition into the style of photography I do. I honestly don’t know what kind of photographer I am yet I’ve only been shooting concerts and taking this shit seriously about 3 months ago so it’s crazy to see how much has fallen into place for me in such a short amount of time.
Why do you admire shooting in film opposed to shooting digital?
I feel like film photos are capturing a moment in time and a digital photo is just a picture. Film is priceless and has a deeper message behind the photo.
Why do you think film is so important when it comes to the quality of a photo?
Digital photos bore me when you see a film photo you know and it stands out
"It means the world because 6 months ago I never thought I would have the opportunities I have right now. It motivates me to keep working harder and harder. "
What were some of favorite moments you had this year while shooting?
Honestly every moment. Like I said I’ve only been doing this 3 months so everything that I’m doing right now is crazy to me that this is actually my reality. But I would have to say my highlights would have to be shooting with Trippie Redd and his crew in Miami and shooting with Post Malone on his Stoney tour. I found out about Trippie Redd and Post Malone pretty early in their career and instantly became big fans so being able to actually talk to them and see how they move was defiantly inspiring.
What does it mean to be a creative from Orlando and getting recognized for your work?
It means the world because 6 months ago I never thought I would have the opportunities I have right now. It motivates me to keep working harder and harder.
How do you want to influence creatives in the Orlando area?
I want to show people that you can do or be what ever you want by working hard and being respectful to everyone around you.
How do you want to revolutionize your art?
Not sure
What are three things you want to accomplish?
Make enough money to do photography full time.
Be hired on as a personal photographer for an artist.
Take a photo of Young Thug and Tyler the creator.
When it’s all said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
A good person.