Media Arts, Design, and Technology Department

Faculty Spotlight

Aaron Draper

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Aaron Draper found his love for photography through an unusual journey. Initially, he was an art student, but things changed when a professor questioned his potential in the field. Undeterred, he shifted to an English degree but rediscovered photography unexpectedly when hired by a newspaper. There he found his passion again and pushed him into a career seamlessly blending academia and creativity.

As a photography instructor, Draper has seen the dynamic changes in photography. Reflecting on the groundbreaking introduction of high-resolution smartphone cameras, he recognizes the transformation role of technology in shaping the field. Artificial Intelligence (AI), in particular, has changed photography, making it more accessible. His advice to aspiring photographers centers on adaptability is "embrace change while respecting the historical context of the craft."

A significant part of his career is the impactful "Under Exposed" project, lasting a decade. Capturing stories and images of the homeless, the project aimed to humanize their struggles, conveying that tragic events could happen to anyone. The project had a significant impact, spreading widely on social media, gaining international attention, and appearing in 50 different magazines worldwide.

In the classroom, Draper uses teaching methods to encourage hands-on experience. He believes in the power of repetition, asserting that continual engagement with photography unlocks creative potential. Avoiding outdated techniques, he ensures students stay relevant in the ever-changing field. Connecting tradition and innovation, he shares real-world insights from his professional experiences, giving students a comprehensive understanding of photography.

This semester, Draper took on a new challenge, teaching Intro to College Radio. Different from his usual classes, it proved to be an interesting change. This experience renewed his appreciation for radio, allowing him to collaborate with students on fresh assignments and share ideas, creating a lively learning environment.

Beyond technical skills, Draper shares valuable life advice with his students. He emphasizes the importance of showing up and being disciplined, even on days when preparation may be lacking. Using a river metaphor, he encourages students to go with the flow, as progress is made when moving with the current. This philosophy extends beyond the classroom into life's broader journey.