Reflecting...

on my journey, I am not most proud of just one experience or one thing.  I am more thankful for ALL the experiences and people that have crossed or paralleled my journey’s path enriching me along the way. So, what sets me apart? Perhaps it's the unique blend of a family steeped in artistic tradition, or a childhood spent in the rhythm of Steve Miller's home.

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My Story,

Born in the heart of St Louis, my journey into the world of photography was anything but ordinary.  Growing up surrounded by a family of artists and musicians, creativity naturally flowed through my veins.  My father, an architect as well as a talented watercolorist and trumpet player, set the stage for a life steeped in the arts.  My grandfather and granduncle were artists, my grandmother was a musician who once played the piano at the 1904 World’s Fair, and another granduncle was also an architect and artist.  Artistry was not just a passion; it was our family legacy. In 1974, our family packed its’ bags and moved from St Louis to the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas.  Little did I know that my childhood home would be none other than the former residence of the iconic singer, Steve Miller.  No, I didn’t live with the Millers—my father purchased the house, marking the beginning of a new chapter in our lives.

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My creative journey quickly began as a combination of music and photography.  At a young age I found myself drawn to the rhythmic beat of music as I pounded the drums in various bands, immersing myself in the vibrant music scene that surrounded me.  But it was my father’s old Nikon Range Finder camera that truly opened my eyes to the boundless world of creativity and imagination.  I photographed everything—family, pets, anyone that crossed our threshold.  Their irritation was matched only by their unwavering support.

 

My 11th birthday marked a turning point with the gift of a Pentax K1000 35mm camera. Excitement coursed through me as I embarked on capturing the world in a new light. My trusty Pentax quickly became my constant companion, capturing the essence of my surroundings and experiences.

One pivotal moment occurred during a family vacation when I risked life and limb to retrieve a fallen lens cap from an elevator shaft. I nearly got myself killed and about gave my mother a heart attack however, the event solidified my passion for photography. My early years were a tapestry of daring adventures in pursuit of the perfect shot from sneaking my camera into arena concerts to climbing high-rise building stairs in downtown Dallas to access the roofs of buildings to photograph adjacent buildings from unique angles. My love for photography grew with each snapshot, each daring escapade, fueled by the support and occasional exasperation of my family.

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Before I could even drive, I navigated Dallas by bus and bike, chasing fire and ambulance calls with my police scanner. I documented the dedication of firefighters. On some weekends I photographed the fast-paced world of Sprint Car races. In 1980, I turned 16 and I could finally drive. The freedom of driving created new opportunities. I began shooting various local music festivals, capturing the essence of live performances as well as shooting various sporting events.

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My journey continued covering the local music scene in Denton, TX while earning my BS degree in Photojournalism from UNT in 1995. Subsequently, I photographed the Dallas Down Syndrome Callendar and the Dallas Cowboys Victory Parades. I also delved into various photography niches, covering everything from real estate for a business journal to capturing the essence of weddings and product photography before establishing King Graf Photography in 1997 specializing in architectural photography.

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In 1997, I established King Graf Photography, a venture that led me to national and international recognition, yet my path didn't end there. The love for music, a passion cultivated during my years as a drummer, beckoned me back. Fast forward to 2023, and I find myself focusing solely on music photography. The artistic musical ecosystem, with its intricate interplay of characters, work ethic, and musical contributions, is my canvas. Like a seasoned sports photographer anticipating an athlete's moves, I aim to tap into this ecosystem, capturing the essence of live performances in stunning images.

 

Today, as I embark on a new chapter, I continue to find inspiration in the seamless fusion of music and photography. My lens is my instrument, and with it, I hope to capture the soulful harmony that defines the artistic musical ecosystem for a long time to come.