The Connector interviews Xavier Thompson, a third-year photography student from Fayetteville, Georgia.
When did you start photography, and what does it mean to you?
I began my interest in photography at a young age using a vintage Polaroid camera from my Nana. It wasn’t until my junior year in high school that I started taking photography seriously. During this time, I was capturing photos for our school’s yearbook, my friends and family. After high school graduation, I attended another college in Atlanta as a computer science major. It wasn’t until my second semester in college that I decided to apply to SCAD to pursue photography. Photography will always be a way for me to connect with others and, most importantly, with myself. Storytelling has always been my passion; it’s my creative outlet. Photography has allowed me an opportunity to express what I’m thinking and feeling to the world without words.
What is your photography process/what type of photography you do?
My photography process is to always look beyond the obvious and connect with others through my images. I find capturing people in their natural environment or small groups easy to me, but to capture the beauty or detail of a product to sell is challenging, yet exciting. When planning a photoshoot, I usually create a mood board with images of color, texture, locations, lighting, and styling. This process allows me to set the tone for a smooth photoshoot with a set of cohesive images. Editing images is also an important part of my photography process. During the editing phase, I can add saturation of color, contrast, or balance if needed to my images.
At this time, I’m focused on commercial photography, including fashion, product, portraits, and landscapes. Even though commercial photography is my focus, I’m open to collaborating in other areas.
Photo by Xavier Thompson. 
Photo by Xavier Thompson.
Who/what inspires you?
Lately, I have been inspired throughout the photography process and through collaboration with friends and classmates. Inspiration comes in many forms for me. I’m inspired by conversations, mood boards, lighting, colors and environments. Sometimes it’s simply the look in someone’s eyes.
How does SCAD help your creative process?
SCAD has provided me opportunities and experiences that have shaped me into the photographer I am today. Over the past two years, I have strengthened my creative confidence and been challenged to be innovative by my classmates and professors. SCAD provides a judgment-free environment for me to learn and grow as an artist.
Share any advice you may have for other artists.
My advice for other artists is to learn to accept criticism and use it to better your work! It’s okay to be inspired by other artists but feel confident in developing your style and creative approach.
Remember, never see a challenging situation as a problem; see it as a possibility to learn and grow as an artist!
What are your future goals?
My future goal is to work for an editorial magazine and become a high fashion photographer after graduation.
