Jackson Keys

Self-portrait for Let’s Talk Durham

Photographer, Jackson Keys, has a unique perspective with an eye for disarming portraits:

Your portraits are mesmerizing, what’s your secret?

I’m not sure if I have a secret yet, I wish I did. In the grand scheme of things I’m pretty new to photography. After shooting for a couple of years now I’ve started to enjoy more abstract photography, specifically portraits. For me, it isn’t about how sharp my photos are or what camera I’m using, it’s about how can I use what I have to create the most “interesting” portrait. My main goal is for you to see one of my photos and go “Whoa, I wonder how he did that.” Whether that be an odd lighting choice, vibrant coloring, or interesting composition, I’m always trying to shoot and edit in a different, hopefully memorable way. 

Whose photography do you admire?

I love looking at other people's work whether that’s photography, music, etc. Just being around creative people really inspires me. My biggest inspiration is my boy Michael Garcia. We are constantly shooting with each other and bouncing ideas back and forth. Without him, I don’t think I’d have the same passion for photography. There aren’t enough photographers willing to help other photographers because it can sometimes feel like a competition.

Your photographs often depict young men and fragments of their lives. Why are you compelled to tell their stories?

I always love hearing about people’s stories and a little bit of who they are during a shoot. I try to capture a little bit of them for at least one moment. It’s also important for me to show people different lives than their own for a new perspective and there’s no better place for that than Durham. I’ve been so thankful to grow up around so many different people who have all helped shape me and the work I want to create. Photography has helped me to pay more attention and care to the lives of people around me. I hope more begin to feel this way as well. 

Masculinity is_______________.

Masculinity is being the person you want to be regardless of what other people might say. It’s not only for guys with big muscles wearing tank tops and drinking a beer. Masculinity can be fashion, creativity, or whatever your thing is that makes you happy. Caring for those around you, and who you are should matter more than whether someone talks, dresses, or looks a way you have learned to expect. 

If you had to describe yourself with one piece of clothing what would it be?

I'd personally describe myself as a birkenstock sandal, prolly an obvious answer if you know me. Let me explain, not in a Dad in dirty white socks with jorts type of way but, in a low-key stylish (hopefully) and lazy way. They can adapt to any terrain, weather (if you don't care about losing feeling in your toes), ready to go whenever, and look kinda cool I suppose. 

Do you sell limited prints of your work? If so, where can we purchase it?

I’m working on getting a website set up for print orders right now! But until then if you’d like a custom print order you can reach out to me on Instagram!