Dylan Willis possesses an exceptionally creative streak that is increasingly emerging and displaying itself in fine fashion. The Huntington High School junior is one of the area’s top young photographer and his work has won many admirers.
Mr. Willis has rapidly advanced with his photography skills. He works very hard at his craft and is always trying to techniques. The teenager has a lot of fun while pursuing a variety of projects and while experimenting with new settings and equipment.
Photography teacher Pam Piffard on Dylan Willis . . .
“Dylan Willis is an extraordinary photographer. He came to me last year as a tenth grader in my Intro to Photo class. It was immediately evident that he was self-taught and had a ton of expertise as well as a great eye. We were able to get Dylan into the advanced class as well so he took intro and advanced in one school year. His prior knowledge and eagerness to learn made him the perfect candidate for taking on the two classes at once. Dylan is now in my Advanced Placement 2D class working on a series of environmental portraits. He has a very clear personal style working with his art and he has the drive to be one of the best.”
Huntington junior Dylan Willis.
Questions and Answers with Dylan Willis
Q: How old are you and what grade are you in?
Dylan Willis: “I am 16 years old and I am in the 11th grade.”
Q: How did you first get interested in photography?
Dylan Willis: “I gained interest in photography after meeting a professional photographer named Geir Magnisun. He was the first person to teach me about the fine details and art of photography. I worked as Geir’s apprentice for a year and he introduced me to many important figures and taught me about the changing industry and gave me hands on experience with the best equipment available.”
Q: Where do you get your ideas?
Dylan Willis: “I get most of my ideas for my shoots from inspiration found on the internet and from having an observant eye for what goes on around me.”
Q: Is there any specific type of photography you like best?
Dylan Willis: “My favorite type of photography is portraiture because my favorite part of an image is to be able to make a true connection to the image and to me nothing does that better than seeing a portrait.”
Q: How has the Huntington photography program helped you with your love of photography?
Dylan Willis: “Our Huntington program has contributed to my success with photography by presenting unique opportunities that would not otherwise be offered to me. Alongside this I have been taught new skills such as editing and different styles of shooting that I would not have explored on my own. I enjoy the class and recommend it to anyone interested in the arts.”
Q: Do you plan to continue with photography or go to school for it?
Dylan Willis: “Yes, I hope to someday make it professional with my work and would love to be able to pursue photography throughout my life in a professional setting.”
