Today we’d like to introduce you to Derrick Barnhill
Hi Derrick , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Yo, quick rewind—Detroit kid, grew up between city hustle and chill Arkansas vibes. Found my groove early on (yup, clarinet and bass drum—don’t underestimate the band kid!)..
College lit a fire in me at University of Arkansas Pine Bluff—radio, acting, you name it. After graduation, I moved to Atlanta with just dreams and a camera. Life threw me some hard hits, but I flipped them into something great: Third Eye Vision Media.
From zero in 2017, I was calling up folks, shooting events, and making friends one picture at a time. Soon enough, brands like Def Jam, Target, and Hot 97 were on the lineup. Your boy captured hustle and heart everywhere.
Now, it’s bigger than just pictures—I create spaces for people to meet, think for themselves, and learn cool new tech that makes life easier. My goal? Inspire folks to grow, innovate, and tell their stories boldly.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It definitely wasn’t a smooth ride. Between 2022 and 2024, the pressures of the photography industry seriously impacted my marriage, even leading to homelessness in 2024. Thankfully, I’m now rebuilding—my marriage is healing, and we have our own peaceful home in the country.
My biggest struggle was understanding my role in Atlanta. I wasn’t just a photographer—I was a business executive. Misunderstandings happened when influencers saw me only as a camera guy, rather than as a partner in their success.
Relationships with my wife were especially challenging for me, but I’ve grown to realize life’s about much more than money and success. Real talk, though—my biggest lesson was handling relationships, especially with women. Atlanta taught me life’s bigger than chasing money and fame; it’s about respect, balance, and understanding to be yourself.
I flipped my pain into profit by dropping my ebook, “Why Photographer Couples Just Don’t Work.” It’s straight-up real talk and personal advice on keeping love alive when the industry’s pressures hit hard. It’s not just an ebook—it’s my blueprint for turning struggles into strengths, showing how to keep your hustle strong without losing the ones you love.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m not just your average photographer—I’m like the Spike Lee or Hype Williams of the visual game. I specialize in photos and videos that carry attitude, energy, and make your audience straight-up fall in love with you. Think about it—my work has landed in places like People Magazine and even lit up Times Square in NYC. Crazy, right?
But what really makes me stand out is my ability to organize and strategize. One call with me, and your marketing issues are solved—I’m basically a super assistant for business owners, giving clear direction and making things happen.
I’m most proud of my daughter—she’s my real MVP. Plus, all the adventures in my 20s, from jet skiing in oceans around the world to soaking in cultures across multiple countries—man, that shaped my vision. My very first client, Candace Holyfield, saw that vision first-hand, benefiting big-time from my unique style and hustle. That’s the magic I’m here to share.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Definitely! Remember, life’s too short for judgment—let’s learn empathy, spread love, and avoid selfish paths.
When we embrace understanding, the universe rewards us all. I want the readers to know that beyond photography and video production, I offer social media management, visual branding strategies, and creative consultations. I love building lasting business relationships, always learning and growing from past experiences and mistakes.
On a personal note, I’m 32 years old, married to the amazing Tyniqua Barnhill, and we have a beautiful 6-year-old daughter. My parents have shown me the strength of commitment, celebrating 37 years together.
If you’re ready to upgrade your brand and share your story with the world, I’m here for you. Let’s freshen up your visuals, supercharge your social media, and bring your vision to life together.
Pricing:
- Social Media Management: Monthly plans starting at $250
- Videography and Video Production: Packages from $500
- Professional Headshots: Starting at $150 per session
- Ebook (“Why Photographer Couples Just Don’t Work”): Available for purchase at $2.99
- Content Creation Events: Starting at $350
Contact Info:
- Website: https://payhip.com/ThirdEyeVisionMedia
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookofdj/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/t.e.vpics
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebookofdj
Image Credits
Photographer: Tyniqua Barnhill
