Today we’d like to introduce you to Trevor Stiff.
Trevor, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Thank you for having me! My journey in photo and video work began in high school through different student organizations and class projects. This interest led me to pursue film school, where I dove deeper into the craft. While I thoroughly enjoyed my studies and various projects, I felt a bit out of place in my major. I didn’t look or act like your typical film student and was getting my first taste of good ol’ imposter syndrome. This carried into the early years of my career. I felt like I had the eye and talent to do this kind of work at a high level, but not quite hitting those aspirations. What I needed to take that next step was an environment that would better stimulate my creativity and drive to grow. I wasn’t getting there on my own.
This changed when I moved to Dallas and began working at Johnson & Sekin, an ad agency that became a real turning point in my story. Surrounded by a team of passionate, talented creatives, I stepped into a space that showed me how to create work of a higher visual caliber, while never losing focus on the “why” behind every project. The consistent opportunities Johnson & Sekin provided me allowed me to improve and flourish, professionally and personally.
During this time, a co-worker turned close friend, Ryan Orebaugh, invited me to start shooting photography outside of work, something I embarrassingly admit I rarely did at the time. He introduced me to the world of street photography and the practice of shooting on film. I was instantly hooked. There was something deeply grounding and exciting about creating art from everyday life. It brought, and continues to bring me, real joy. With this, a creative lifestyle began to develop outside of work. Photography was no longer just a part of my profession; it became a part of how I moved through the world.
Currently, I continue to develop my craft both through my Content Creator role at Johnson & Sekin and the street and film photography communities here in Dallas. Being around others who are equally passionate, curious, and generous with their creative knowledge has shaped the artist and professional I’m becoming.
I feel very fortunate to have experienced my journey and look forward to where my creative passions continue to lead me. I’m still far from a finished product. Always learning, always growing.
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?
The road definitely hasn’t always been smooth, as covered in my previous response. And in many ways, I’m grateful for that.
Dealing with imposter syndrome and not having a creative environment to stimulate and push me to grow were some of the early struggles I dealt with. Johnson & Sekin provided me with that environment upon moving to Dallas.
Another humbling realization was how little I was creating outside of work. It wasn’t until my friend Ryan Orebaugh encouraged me to practice photography beyond my 9-5 job that something shifted. Discovering street photography and shooting on film reignited something in me. A desire to create and do so for myself, not just follow orders and fulfill assignments.
Of course, there are still times I encounter the same struggles today; moments of imposter syndrome and self-doubt. But the experiences I’ve encountered and continue to encounter have forced me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have otherwise.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a Content Creator at Johnson & Sekin, a Dallas-based ad agency where I shoot and edit both video and photography for a wide range of clients. My work spans everything from small-scale social content to larger, integrated campaigns. I take pride in telling stories and crafting visuals that feel intentional, dynamic, and human.
Outside of agency work, I pursue personal photography projects that keep me creatively engaged. I’m especially drawn to film and street photography; capturing unique people, environments, and moments that often go unnoticed. It’s become a way for me to find and create art in everyday life. Street photography, in particular, has sharpened my eye and deepened my appreciation for spontaneous, unscripted visuals. I’m always looking for scenes that spark emotion, tell a story, or visually excite me. If all three of these boxes are checked at once, you have yourself one hell of a photograph.
I’m proud of the work I do, both professionally and personally. Each side of my practice influences the other, pushing me to stay curious and continually evolve as a storyteller. You can view my work on my website or Instagram.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
If you’re looking to find a mentor or expand your network, the best thing you can do is be brave and simply put yourself out there. Go to events where others in your field might be: galleries, workshops, talks, or local meetups. And don’t be afraid to reach out online either. A simple message introducing yourself and showing genuine interest can go a long way.
When you meet someone you admire, take the time to really connect. Chat with them about both work-related and non-work-related topics. Ask questions. And if it feels right, invite them to meet again, maybe for coffee or to collaborate on a project. Make it known that you‘re serious about learning, growing, and building real relationships in your field.
Above all, be intentional, authentic, and kind. People respond well to generosity and passion. If you approach others with respect and a clear desire to grow, you’ll be surprised by how many are willing to help or share their time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.trevorstiff.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trevor_stiff
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevorstiff
Image Credits
Trevor Stiff, Ryan Orebaugh, and Alex Teppert
