Meet Brian Tryon | Photographer/visual artist. Founder and owner of Shutter and Strum

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Tryon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk-taking is often a catalyst for growth and transformation, both personally and professionally. It involves stepping outside your comfort zone, facing uncertainty, and being willing to navigate the possibility of failure for the chance to achieve something meaningful.

In my experience, the most fulfilling moments often stem from taking calculated risks. For example, learning to think creatively, trust my instincts, and push boundaries are direct results of embracing challenges. Risk has played a crucial role in personal development, sharpening resilience, and helping me reframe setbacks as opportunities to learn and adapt.

In a career context, risk can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and creative breakthroughs. It’s about balancing ambition with awareness—identifying which risks align with your values and long-term vision. Taking risks forces you to question norms and innovate, which is essential for progress.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art focuses on storytelling and empowerment, especially with at-risk youth. Through photography, music, and visual art, I create spaces where young people can explore their identities, express themselves, and feel seen. What sets my work apart is the emphasis on collaboration and authenticity—I view art as a dialogue, not a monologue. It’s not about creating for others; it’s about creating with them.

What excites me most is seeing someone unlock a new level of self-confidence or discover talents they didn’t know they had. Art can be transformational, and I’m most proud of the moments when a young person’s voice or perspective shines in a way that inspires others.

The journey to this point hasn’t been easy. I’ve faced challenges like self-doubt, resource limitations, and the constant need to advocate for the value of creative work. One of the biggest hurdles has been gaining trust—both from the youth I work with and from institutions that support the work. I overcame these challenges by staying consistent, listening deeply, and showing up authentically.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First I’d take them to meet all the real ones, the people who matter the most to me. We’d have some great conversations.
Then we would hit up What’s Left Records for some record buying and to check out a cool live music show. After that we’d go to Auric Gallery and Self made tattoo .
Breakfast at The Loft in manitou. If they like to drink , we’d go to LuLu’s downtown for libations for them and check out a cool live music show.
We’d take photo walks around the city and an old man/person skate sesh, to top it all off.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Photographically I’d like to shout out Diane Arbus for the inspiration.
Also I’d like to give a shout out to The Bronx Documentary center for the inspiration to take a risk and open my own community art center, Shutter and Strum.
Locally I’d like to shout out Fred Legarda, Jesse Rozell, Glen Murrell and Abigail Kreuser for the unconditional support and inspiration . Too my wife, Jolene (who should be sainted) thank you for tolerating my crazy ideas, my amazing sense of humor, and supporting my endeavors. Also, my amazing kids and grandturds for keeping me going.
Way too many others to shout out. I’m grateful for so many homies!

Website: https://www.shutterandstrum.org

Instagram: @shutter_and_strum

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15a6KgdfpW/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Image Credits
All photos by me Brian Tryon