a conversation w/ Tyler Ribchester

Tyler is a queer fashion and portrait photographer from Toronto, Canada. We talk about getting your work published, working with your significant other and developing a creative team.

Give me a little more details on your background. 

Throughout my life's journey, I've encountered various challenges and moments of self-discovery that have shaped me into the person I am today. I hail from Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, just a stone's throw away from vibrant Toronto. My parents' separation during my childhood introduced some complexities, making those early years a bit of a blur.

Navigating adolescence while grappling with my sexual identity presented its own set of challenges. For over 14 years, I kept my true self hidden, navigating high school while wearing a metaphorical mask. It was a challenging time, but it ultimately led me to appreciate the value of authenticity.

Upon graduating high school, I decided to pursue my passion for photography. After receiving acceptance from various institutions, I chose Centennial College as my new home. This fresh start was a revelation for me. I made a conscious decision to embrace my true self and gradually began to open up to select classmates about my sexual orientation. To my delight, I was met with acceptance and support, which lifted a tremendous weight off my shoulders.

The freedom to live authentically was a game-changer. With newfound confidence, I mustered the courage to share my truth with my family, who embraced me with open arms. During this transformative period, I crossed paths with my partner, David. Our shared love for photography and art sparked a deep connection, leading us to embark on a journey of collaboration and creativity.

In the Spring of 2022, I moved to the picturesque city of Florence, Italy, alongside David as he pursued his Master's degree. Together, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant world of fashion, capturing the collections of budding designers and making new friendships that turned out to last a lifetime.

I now live in downtown Toronto with my fiance, David. We cherish our time in the heart of the city.

This journey has been one of self-discovery, resilience, and joy. Each experience has contributed to shaping my identity and professional path, reinforcing the importance of authenticity and acceptance in both personal and professional endeavours.

How did you first get into photography? 

I attended an art high school, where my journey in the creative field began to unfold. It was in this unique environment that I discovered my passion for artistic expression. In grade 11, I made the decision to explore photography and asked to enrol in a photography course. From the moment I picked up a camera, I was captivated. The ability to capture moments, convey emotions, and tell stories through imagery resonated deeply with me. Instantly, I fell head over heels in love with photography, and it became the focal point of my creative journey.

What is your favourite thing to shoot? 

My favourite subject to photograph undoubtedly revolves around people. Delving deeper into this passion, I find immense joy in photographing individuals within the queer and non-binary community. There's a profound sense of fulfilment in capturing the authenticity, diversity, and resilience of these individuals through my lens. Moreover, when paired with unique clothing choices that reflect their personalities and identities, these photo sessions become even more meaningful to me. It's a privilege to document the beauty, strength, and individuality of each person I photograph, particularly within communities that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. Through my work, I strive to celebrate and amplify their voices, stories, and experiences, creating images that resonate on a deeper level.

Congratulations on getting published in Vogue Italia! What was the process like? 

Thank you! Last summer I had the privilege of shooting Fashion Art Toronto’s virtual runways and out of that I got some amazing images. One of those is Elsie Abang wearing Gorm Garms. Elsie is an amazing, talented and beautiful model whose presence shines in a group. The Designer, Gorm Garms, is a genius and the garments she created for her runway were stunning.

These two, coupled with my photography and my partner, David Cash, who creative directed the photo

Do you have any tips for someone submitting their work?

Never give up. They turn down a majority of submitted works weekly. I would also suggest looking at the type of work they are accepting and the work featured in the ”Best Of” category in order to get a feel of what they like.

How do you make a model feel comfortable during a shoot?

As a young photographer, I'm continuously learning and evolving in my craft. One invaluable lesson I've learned is the importance of allowing my models to warm up during a photoshoot. Recognizing that every individual is unique, I've discovered that some may require a bit of time to relax and ease into the session. Creating a comfortable and welcoming environment where they feel at ease is key to capturing authentic and emotive images.

In addition, I've found it helpful to show models a few poses that I've curated from online sources. This helps them understand the emotions and mood I'm aiming to convey and provides a visual reference for the composition I have in mind. By offering guidance and inspiration, I empower my models to express themselves more confidently, resulting in more natural and impactful photographs.

What aspect do you find more captivating/important during a photoshoot, makeup or outfit?

While both makeup and outfit selection play crucial roles in a photo shoot, I believe that the outfit holds greater significance. Unlike makeup, which can often be adjusted or enhanced later in post-processing, the choice of clothing is integral to the overall aesthetic and storytelling of the image. Once a photograph is taken, it's nearly impossible to photoshop clothing into the scene convincingly. Therefore, careful consideration of wardrobe selection before the shoot is essential to ensure that the desired look and mood are achieved effectively. By prioritizing outfit choices during the planning stages, photographers can lay a strong foundation for creating impactful and visually compelling images that resonate with their audience.

What is important to you while developing a production team?

When assembling a production team, my foremost criteria revolve around reliability and proficiency. I seek individuals who not only possess the necessary skills and training to excel in their respective roles but also demonstrate a track record of reliability and professionalism. Additionally, while some may shy away from working with friends, I am open to collaborating with them, provided they can effectively compartmentalize work from social interactions. In my experience, working alongside friends who understand the importance of maintaining professionalism in a work environment can facilitate smoother delegation of tasks and foster a sense of camaraderie within the team. Ultimately, my goal is to build a cohesive and efficient production team that delivers exceptional results while maintaining a healthy balance between work and personal relationships.

After a recent move to Italy how have you been able to adapt your photography and your networking in a new country?

Moving to Italy has presented its fair share of challenges and obstacles to overcome. However, one aspect that has eased the transition is the fact that my partner attends an English-speaking school. This has proven to be advantageous in multiple ways, particularly in facilitating communication and forging connections within the local community. In a city like Florence, where English may not be widely spoken, having a built-in network of English speakers has made it easier to find friends and potential clients. This shared language has served as a bridge, enabling meaningful interactions and collaborations despite the linguistic differences. Overall, while adjusting to life in Italy has had its trials and tribulations, having access to an English-speaking community has undoubtedly eased the transition and opened doors to new opportunities.

How do you balance working with your significant other during photo shoots? 

My partner and I have found a harmonious balance between our professional endeavors and our relationship, largely because we approach each job with a shared understanding and alignment. Prior to embarking on any project, we ensure that we are both on the same page in terms of our goals, vision, and expectations. This mutual understanding lays a solid foundation for collaboration and minimizes misunderstandings along the way.

While there may be occasional moments of frustration or annoyance, particularly when navigating the creative process, we prioritize effective communication and mutual respect, which prevents any disagreements from escalating into arguments that could jeopardize our relationship. Ultimately, our shared passion for the art we create fuels our drive and dedication, serving as a unifying force that strengthens our bond as partners both in life and in work.

What was the first photo that you took that you were proud of?

As a young photographer, my journey is marked by constant growth and evolution, with each shoot serving as a stepping stone towards improvement. Currently, my most recent shoot holds a special significance as it is soon to be featured in a magazine publication. Among the collection of images, one stands out distinctly to me - the captivating portrayal of Elsie Abang adorned in Gorm Garms, which was recently published in Photo Vogue Italia.

This particular image holds a unique allure that sets it apart from my body of work. The composition, lighting, and expression captured in the frame encapsulate a moment of raw emotion and artistic resonance. It represents a culmination of my creative vision and technical skill, showcasing a depth and sophistication that I strive to achieve in all my photographs.

Being selected for publication in Photo Vogue Italia is not only a validation of my artistic journey but also an opportunity to share my vision with a wider audience. It serves as a testament to the progress I've made as a photographer and fuels my determination to continue pushing boundaries and refining my craft.

How has your style changed from the beginning of your photography career to now?

Initially, I was apprehensive about photographing people, unsure of my ability to capture their essence and convey their stories through imagery. However, as I've immersed myself in the art of photography and honed my skills over time, I've grown increasingly confident in my ability to connect with and photograph individuals.

This progression is evident in my work, as I've transitioned from hesitant captures to more confident and compelling portraits that reflect the depth and personality of my subjects.

Through practice, experimentation, and a willingness to step out of my comfort zone, I've embraced the challenge of photographing people and discovered a newfound confidence in my craft.

Today, I approach each photoshoot with a sense of assurance, drawing upon my evolving skills and understanding of the medium to create images that resonate with authenticity and emotion. While there's always room for improvement, I'm proud of the growth I've experienced as a photographer and excited to continue pushing the boundaries of my creativity.

Any advice for someone developing their own style?

Exploring new avenues and pushing the boundaries of your comfort zone is essential for growth and development as a photographer. It's through these experiences that you'll uncover new techniques, perspectives, and approaches that shape your unique style.

By challenging yourself to experiment with different shooting styles, subjects, and environments, you'll expand your creative horizons and discover what resonates most with you. Embracing diversity in your work allows you to draw inspiration from various sources, ultimately leading to an amalgamation of styles that reflects your personal vision.

Moreover, stepping outside of your comfort zone fosters adaptability and resilience, qualities that are invaluable in the ever-evolving world of photography. Embrace the unknown, embrace the unfamiliar, and embrace the journey of self-discovery through your lens. It's through this exploration that you'll uncover the true essence of your style and continue to evolve as a photographer.

What is next for you? do you have any upcoming projects or future goals? 

My partner and I are eagerly anticipating our return to Toronto, where we have ambitious plans to open our own photography studio. The prospect of establishing our creative space in the heart of the city fills us with excitement and anticipation for the future. Together, we are dedicated to bringing our shared vision to life, creating a welcoming and inspiring environment where we can unleash our creativity and collaborate with clients to capture timeless moments. We look forward to this new chapter in our journey as photographers and entrepreneurs, and we can't wait to share our passion and expertise with the vibrant community of Toronto.

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