Jared Thomas Tapy- Photographer

Hello! My name is Jared Tapy and I'm a social documentary/art photographer based in Savannah, GA. 

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My photography is a reactive and instinctive reception to my surroundings and those that inhabit it. In a country with so many people, stories and cultures my work looks to capture the many stories that are either untold, paved over or simply missed. My goal is to create images that make the viewer question their sense of morality, and what makes each of us connected. That goal of mine has allowed me to peer into many different cultures and places that have given me the opportunity to capture everything from their beauty, fun, and joy, to their struggles, injustices and mistreatments. 

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There are often times when I strive to unveil unfortunate situations with the use of beautification and approach these misfortunes with an artistic proposition. My work frequently uses a more colorful, graphic and sometimes comic application to adhere to the situations in which I'm photographing. For instance the destruction and alienation of historically African American communities in Savannah Georgia has been a project that I have focused on since 2018. My time in these communities has allowed me to not only witness the culture and beauty of these communities, but take part and be present in the life of many community members. Everyday hard working people going to and from work, playing basketball in their free time or going to get their hair and nails done. Partnering candid portrait/street photography and still life images to document the ever changing environment of various communities grants me the ability to reveal a deeper story, something that isn't as superficial. 

 

This process takes a lot of time in order to rightfully honor and appreciate my subjects and the lives that they live. Although I very rarely ever come into contact with my subjects, my intention is to always empower and provide a platform for them. I believe that trust, respect and understanding are what's most important when conducting my work and that is why I take my time in creating stories and publications. 

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Photojournalism and visual storytelling can be a more powerful weapon than any other. Documenting, sharing and communicating injustice, ideas and other ways of life different from our own is essential for growth and understanding amongst one another. Our individuality is special but I have come to realize that we are all very much connected in ways we hardly realize.