Tipton Native Jason Graves Has a Sharp Focus on Photography
Photography Provided
For Tipton native Jason Graves, photography is a way to leave a lasting impact. While its not his primary occupation, it is an important focus in his life. He finds that photographing a diverse variety of subjects while exploring different genres develops strong connections within the community and beyond. As a photographer for the Towne Post network of magazines, which includes Tipton and Kokomo magazines, his photos help to inform readers on local individuals and businesses.
I grew up in Tipton County and Ive lived here my whole life, Graves says. Recently, I purchased land and moved near Total Seed Production. Ive worked 25 years for Chrysler, and my wife and I are currently raising a blended family of four teenagers who all attend Tri-Central High School. Photography is an extra side hustle that I enjoy, and every year I seem to do more of it.
Graves developed his interest in photography by doing a favor for a friend who was selling livestock, and needed photos of a herd of cattle that was being sold. As a child his family raised cattle, and Graves participated in 4-H livestock programs. He soon realized that taking photos of cows isnt an easy job.
The black hides of cows mess with the meter inside a camera, Graves says. White ones tend to be underexposed. I found I had to think like the meter of the camera. A camera can do amazing things in auto mode, but with cows I had to compensate for nature. I really liked the challenge and started to learn the fundamentals such as depth of field. When my kids came along I started getting into lighting. Im basically self-taught, but I have taken some online classes and attended a few in-person workshops. Today I use both digital and old-style film cameras, such as a 35-millimeter camera that was my dads.
In recent years, Graves has found himself split between shooting commercial-style photos and street photography. He enjoys being the photographer for weddings of family members and friends, as well as sporting events or parties. Besides being a contributor to church bulletins, he has carved out a niche producing local corporate headshots, including more than 150 Chrysler employees for the companys website and printed material.
I like the interaction with people, Graves says. Headshots are easy to do. All I need is a white, gray or black background. What I really enjoy is senior portraits since I get to see the kids with their families during the process. Photography for Towne Post has been interesting because I get to know people in the community and hopefully will get a chance to reconnect with them again. While doing the shoot for Rustic Roots [Salon], I remembered co-owner Amy Robinson did the makeup for a wedding I had photographed.
During the pandemic, Graves has found time to explore neighboring communities and document unique streets, landscapes and architecture. Although still formulating the idea, he hopes to someday produce a book featuring photos from Clinton, Howard, Tipton and northern Hamilton counties. Until then, his work can be viewed on social media platforms and his website.
I dont want my photos to die on a hard drive – I want them to have a purpose, Graves says. After I retire, I am hopeful that photography will be my second, full-time career. Id also like to teach photography, especially to high school kids.
For more info on the photography of Jason Graves, visit JasonGravesPhotography.com or call 765-438-3007.