What and Who is "TSB PHOTOGRAPHY NYC?"
The Culture Inc Magazine Presents:
Freezing Time With Purpose — A Conversation With NYC Photographer TSB Photography
Photography is more than an image—it’s intention, memory, and the art of holding a moment still. Few embody that philosophy as deeply as New York City–based creator TSB Photography, whose signature style has become instantly recognizable across the tri-state area. Known for capturing emotion with precision and transforming everyday backdrops into cinematic frames, TSB continues to evolve while remaining rooted in the fundamentals that shaped his craft decades ago.
In this exclusive interview with The Culture Inc Magazine, he opens up about his early influences, creative process, artistic identity, and the future of his expanding portfolio.
The Interview
1. Your work has a very distinct visual signature. What influences or experiences helped shape your photographic style into what it is today?
“My earliest influence came back in 6th grade during a junior high school photography class. I was privileged to learn how to develop film in a darkroom—developer, stop bath, fixer—the whole process. That experience taught me how to understand light, exposure, and the patience it takes to create an image.
As technology evolved, my mindset stayed rooted in that foundation: I’ve always chased the perfect shot. I want to freeze time—freeze a memory—and that drives everything I do behind the lens. During a photoshoot, I’m always searching for that one moment where I feel, That’s it. That’s the shot.”
2. Every image tells a story—what core message or emotion do you try to capture when you’re behind the lens?
“The core message I try to capture is simple: you are the beauty. With so much comparison happening on social media, I want my images to remind people of their own value.
I focus on freezing a moment—preserving it for as long as they hold that photo. Whether we’re in the heart of the Bronx in front of a graffiti wall, by a mural of a hip-hop icon, or standing on the Brooklyn shoreline overlooking an iconic bridge, I aim to create a scene that makes people say, ‘That’s the look—that’s the shot.’
Ultimately, I want to capture an emotion of completeness and meaning behind why that image was taken in that place and at that time.”
3. Walk us through your creative process. From concept to final edit, what does it take to bring one of your standout shots to life?
“I’m exceptionally critical and intentional in my process. It begins with the first consultation—listening closely to what the client wants, the location, the time of day, even down to where they can change outfits. After that, I take a scouting trip to the location and study my canvas. I look for symmetry, architecture, shadows—everything plays a role.
I always prepare a plan B, especially with unpredictable weather. On shoot day, I keep the energy positive, open, and joyful. I believe your aura sets the tone for everything. And yes, plenty of patience, extra batteries, and making sure you use the bathroom before the shoot—I say that laughing, but it’s real!
What truly creates a standout shot is patience. Photography isn’t ‘one click and done.’ It’s a lot of analyzing, adjusting, and waiting for that exact moment. After 30 years behind the camera, patience has become one of my greatest tools.”
4. Photography is evolving rapidly with new technology and social trends. How do you stay innovative while staying true to your artistic identity?
“I spend a lot of time studying new trends and trying techniques I see in storefront displays, magazines, or online. With technology changing literally every day, I do my best to keep my equipment updated—but I’m mindful about it. I usually keep the same camera for about five years before upgrading to something that truly fits my needs.
When choosing gear, I ask myself what matters more—megapixels or function. For me, it’s the ability to shoot 120 frames per minute, because that burst lets me capture that one perfect pose. But from experience, and from listening to other photographers, I’ve learned this: it’s not the equipment—it’s the shooter.”
5. What upcoming projects, collaborations, or themes are you most excited to explore next, and what can your audience expect from you in the near future?
“Winter slows outdoor photography down, but I’m grateful to have several opportunities lined up this December, including a studio lifestyle session and an indoor water shoot. I recently collaborated with Lady Jay on a promotional shoot at the Brooklyn waterfront by the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. I also worked with independent artist Bigga Skillz and his group Underdogs United on their latest music video.
Photography has taken me places I never imagined—working with commercial brands, city agencies, influencers, and more. Looking ahead, I hope to travel beyond the tri-state area and continue growing my business. This isn’t a hobby for me—it’s my passion. When you’re passionate about your work, you never work a day in your life.
My audience can expect to see much more from me. What you see will depend on the client’s creative vision—I give them full freedom. My role is simple: to capture the moment and freeze it in time.”
Closing Thoughts
TSB Photography’s journey is a testament to discipline, evolution, and unwavering purpose. His ability to blend storytelling with technical mastery is what makes his work stand out in a city overflowing with visual creators. Whether shooting against gritty borough backdrops or iconic New York landscapes, he remains committed to one mission: preserving moments that matter.
As his portfolio continues to expand and his artistry continues to evolve, one thing is clear—TSB isn’t just taking photos. He’s freezing time, one perfect frame at a time.
- Socials
