FROM POKÉMON CAMERA TO CITY STREETS, DANTE DAVISON IS THE PHOTOGRAPHER EVERYONE’S WATCHING - VORAKA

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN VORAKA

Article Published on 03 May 2025 by Gloria Poletti | www.vorakamag.com

Dante’s journey into photography began at the age of eight, when his mother, a passionate family photographer herself, gifted him a Pokémon-themed camera. That seemingly simple gift ignited a deep connection with the world of images, a connection that would shape his life and career. From those early days, Dante took his camera with him everywhere and learned very early how to document his journey. Photography quickly became more than a hobby, it became a language through which he expressed his creativity.

DANTE DAVISON

Through high school, Dante always knew that storytelling was his true calling and that nothing else could replace it. He started to deepen his understanding of the craft. He enrolled in a photography class after school, where he not only honed his technical skills but also met mentors who nurtured his creativity and pushed him to explore new boundaries.

SHOT BY DANTE DAVISON

Dante began experimenting with various styles, from portraiture to abstract photography, and gradually started to shoot video. The breakthrough came when he sold his first print at sixteen, a proud moment that confirmed his potential and solidified his commitment to pursuing photography professionally. Even more of a surprise to Dante, two photos of him were placed downtown Minneapolis on electrical boxes after winning a contest depicting peace through photography. As the digital age expanded, Dante embraced the power of the internet, uploading his work to various platforms where it quickly garnered attention. The exposure helped him build a following and open doors to new opportunities, marking the beginning of his journey as a recognized artist.

SHOT BY DANTE DAVISON

In 2015 after graduation, DANTE’S CRAFT was created. A business where Dante could have creative freedom and take his artistry to a high level. Today, Dante captures beautiful images of models, business owners, landscapes, families, and events of all kinds. Generally every week Dante shoots different projects, so things stay spontaneous. From the beginning, Dante has always been a passionate storyteller, using photography and videography to capture the essence of people in their truest form. His craft isn’t just about taking a picture or shooting a video, it’s about creating an experience that allows individuals to feel seen and valued. With each shot, he strives to make the moment unforgettable, not just for the viewer, but for the person being captured.

SHOT BY DANTE DAVISON

Dante offers a diverse range of photography services tailored to meet the unique needs of his clients. His expertise spans various genres, ensuring that each project is approached with a creative, personal touch. To name a few, Dante shoots fashion photography, business portraits, event photography, and brand corporate content. Dante is often heard saying that you have to be skilled enough to shoot just about anything these days. 

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DANTE DAVISON

What was it about that Pokémon-themed camera that first sparked your love for photography?

The Pokémon-themed camera was such a great gift for me. It allowed me to see the beautiful moments in my life long after they happened. The sense of creative freedom really sparked a desire to keep creating. Every shot made me feel like I was doing something important.

How did your early experiences documenting your journey shape your creative vision?

Photographing as a kid felt so pure to me. The mental payoff felt so good that I just kept wanting to add new elements into my process. Those elements are used today like my warm-ups, speeches before shoots, and editing tricks. So blessed to be where I am. 

What made storytelling through photography feel like your true calling from such a young age?

Photography felt like an elite way of storytelling. The way people assembled in front of my camera and the eagerness to see the photo afterwards made this passion of mine seem very valuable. My photography connected with so many friends, family, and teachers differently than other art projects did.

How did your mentors and photography classes in high school influence your artistic development? 

My mentors showed me there was a lot more to photography than I needed to learn. These exercises and field trips really opened my eyes to using light and shadows the proper way, and not guessing so much, but using proper technique. I didn’t want my work to be like others, but I did want that same pristine quality. 

Can you describe the feeling of selling your first print at sixteen and how it motivated you?

My mother always told me that if I didn’t make money, I wouldn’t be happy. She knew I loved my material things and always wanted more. This was my motivation to start thinking about my career. Selling my photo ignited a new flame in me. It gave me so much hope that art could make me money.

How did winning the contest that placed your photos on display in Minneapolis impact your confidence as a photographer?

The contest was such a massive moment for my early career. It was one of my first challenges where I wasn’t just trying to impress myself but others as well. After hearing that two of my photos would be placed on the streets of Minneapolis, my confidence went through the roof. This was one of the highest honors a visual artist can experience!

What role did social media and online platforms play in helping you establish your brand?

I am introverted. So very early, I decided that rather than putting my personal life on the internet, I wanted to make my art the focus. My photos contributed to my mysterious persona, I showed my audience who I was rather than telling them. Still to this day, I put my art before my personal life.

What inspired you to launch DANTE’S CRAFT, and how has it evolved since 2015?

I am introverted. So very early, I decided that rather than putting my personal life on the internet, I wanted to make my art the focus. My photos contributed to my mysterious persona, I showed my audience who I was rather than telling them. Still to this day, I put my art before my personal life. 

You shoot a wide variety of subjects, from models to business owners and landscapes. How do you adapt your approach for each?

I aim to completely understand the assignment before even touching my camera. The clients' experience is just as important as the photograph. The relationship between the client and me has to be centered around trust. My approach to photographing live events is much more strategic, there are rarely any do-overs!

What do you think makes a photograph truly powerful beyond just technical skill?

Beyond the skills I’ve learned to help make a powerful photo, I believe all images need confidence. No matter what pose, silly or serious, it’s up to me to bring out the right emotion in my subject. The words I choose and my delivery can make or break the energy of the shoot.

As a photographer and videographer, how do you balance capturing spontaneous moments with intentional storytelling?

Both have a special place in my heart, and I wouldn’t feel fulfilled without either one. Videography brings moments to life with movement, sound, and emotion it allows stories to unfold in real time and pulls the viewer in immediately. Photography, on the other hand, is quieter and more introspective. It invites you to pause, reflect, and sometimes look twice to grasp the full story behind a single frame. Each medium offers something unique, and together, they give me the freedom to express the full spectrum of my creativity. Some moments are best captured in motion.