Daryn LaBier came to Academy of Art University after serving as a reconnaissance scout in the U.S. Army, where he operated video surveillance equipment. He began to use the camera to document military life, on and off the battlefield.
“I want to create images that tell a story people can get lost in.”
“A scout has to do three things: shoot, move, and communicate. I feel this is also appropriate as a photographer,” he says. After graduating, he started his own business specializing in photography and photo illustration. His work is imaginative, unforgettable and often features exotic, otherworldly backgrounds. “I want to create images that tell a story people can get lost in,” says LaBier. He has also found a niche in commissioned work for the tactical community: magazines and companies that create apparel for hunters, extreme campers and the military. “Being a veteran gives me a foot in the door.” LaBier urges other vets to explore their artistic side. “Take all the things that made you a soldier, all the skills to be mission-oriented. You can apply those toward a degree in the arts,” he advises. The veterans education benefits offered by the Academy makes it a lot easier for military vets too.
“I was blown away [by the Academy]. I had never seen work like this or this level of artistry and technical skill…before.”
Before arriving at the Academy, LaBier moved to South Korea to teach English and focus on his photography. He returned four years later with a portfolio and began researching MFA photography programs. During a visit to San Francisco, LaBier attended the Academy’s annual Spring Show. “I was blown away. I had never seen work like this or this level of artistry and technical skill…before,” he recalls.
Icons of Photography Program
Senior students who have demonstrated exceptional aptitude have the possibility to work directly with top photographers in the industry in the Icons of Photography Program. This is a special opportunity and unique to Academy of Art University Photography students.
Daryn won the opportunity in 2010 and learned essential lessons during his directed study with Chris Clor, an award-winning photographer and illustrator based out of London. “Chris helped me refine my concepts and take my Photoshopping skills to the next level, learning how to use tools to create the visions floating in my head. I worked with him remotely while traveling. Sensory overload is challenging while traveling—Chris helped me to focus on the now and not be overwhelmed by stimuli. I learned to trust myself to capture and create the images I wanted and to distinguish what each scene and individual have to offer.”
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