Holding up a camera, he adjusts the settings, ensuring the shot is perfect. Then he presses the shutter.
Click.
Gazing through the viewfinder, Coppell High School senior Keyon Johnson examines the picture he has taken.
Johnson shows a profound interest in photography, leading to his position as an aide for CHS digital media teacher Brennan Fruge’s second period photography class and a staff member for Round-Up yearbook. As a teacher aide, Johnson gains additional opportunities to grow as a photographer.
“It’s nice because as I’m helping them out, I’m honing my own skills, so it’s like a review for me as I’m teaching,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s interest in photography is fairly recent, having only begun in March 2023 while on a trip to Jamaica. Interested in capturing what he was experiencing, he decided to take a photo, showing it to his mom who encouraged him to continue experimenting with the craft. The more he practiced, the more enthralled he became with his newfound hobby. This eventually evolved into a passion for photography, and a desire to pursue it professionally.
Prior to this, Johnson did not have much interest in the visual arts field.
“I tried drawing, and it never worked. But then I did painting a little bit, but I’m not really good at doing that. It’s kind of like I said, art isn’t for me,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s experiences have transformed and developed his contrasting view on the field, given his former indifference in art and love for photography.
Additionally, Fruge acknowledges his dedication to photography.
“When Keyon finds something he wants to do, he really goes all in. So if he’s into it, he’s very dedicated. He’s found a new love for learning,” Fruge said.
Alongside motivation from the people around him, a crucial element that empowers Johnson to continue photography is his own mindset to persevere through hardships.
“The only thing I thought about was, if I don’t make my business successful, or if [my work is] not enough. Because the way photography works is your work, is your money, so if I don’t have good work that’s worth money, then I’m struggling,” Johnson said. “I just overcome it and push through it, because I feel like it can be done.”
Johnson has been accepted into the Savannah College of Art and Design, which he will be attending next year. After college, he plans to start a business of his own and do freelance work in photography, transforming what is now a hobby into a full-time career.
Beyond being a photographer, Johnson proves to be a helpful presence in the classroom, always willing to assist his peers and provide his own insights when needed.
“If I am busy helping a student and another student needs help, he’ll go over and help them, and I didn’t even have to tell him to do this,” Fruge said. “And he’s actually shared some tricks he learned with us about vignetting and things, and he’s been a great help with the other students.”
Apart from his craft, Johnson is also known to be a considerate and caring person.
“I’d say he’s always just doing the right thing. He’s always very kind and humble. I think a lot of people don’t really see that sometimes,” senior Aaron Montes said. “When you actually sit down and have a conversation with him, he’s very cool and calm.”
From the day Johnson took that first, simple picture he has worked to develop as a photographer and a person. His goal is to support others on their own journeys to success, all while laying down a foundation for his own. Regardless of whatever setbacks Johnson might encounter during his work, his willingness to persevere continues to guide him forward.
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