Through a Veteran’s Lens: Healing and Purpose in Photography

In this interview, Travis shares how his military experience shaped his perspective, the lessons he’s learned from studying photography, and the projects that have helped him find his voice as an artist. From experimenting with symbolism in Photoshop to photographing sacred spaces inspired by his wife’s faith, his work reflects a deep sense of purpose, patience, and emotional honesty—a testament to art’s power to heal and connect.

Q: Travis, you are joining Sessions as a veteran of the US military. Thank you for your service. How did your military experience shape your perspective and approach as an aspiring photographer?

Thank you. At one point in my service, I was deployed to Italy and had the opportunity to explore. The local landscape was beautiful and made me wish that I could preserve the memories through a photograph. In my opinion, the best privilege for me was choosing a duty station. I was able to choose the Pacific Northwest, which is known for its natural beauty.

Q: You completed a Certificate program before enrolling in an Associate Degree in Digital Photography. Why did you choose to pursue a degree?

I chose to pursue a degree because I wanted to maintain the skills that I learned in the certificate program. It also allows me more freedom to express myself through art at my local VA National Creative Arts Festival.

Q:Has studying at Sessions helped you discover or develop a unique creative voice or style in photography?

At this time, I am still working on finding my niche. I like working in Photoshop and color correction. Although it has been pointed out to me that sometimes my photos seem to hold hidden symbolism which provides different meaning to the photo depending on who views it.

Q: What has been the most meaningful or surprising lesson you’ve learned in the photography program so far? Are there any photography projects or assignments you’re particularly proud of? What inspired them?

I have learned to take my time and to enjoy the process rather than hurry to the end result.

I am particularly proud of a Commercial Photography assignment regarding exterior and interior of buildings. I was inspired to visit Tampa at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church because my wife is of the Catholic faith, and she has shared her experiences of attending Mass growing up. One particular photo I took was experimenting with a low angle down the pew towards the stained glass. This was done in a way to highlight how it must be from a child’s perspective.

Can you tell us about some recent work you have been exploring in the Photoshop class—the Charlie Daniels project?

The Charlie Daniels project is my favorite work! I had clear insight into how I was going to highlight the duel the song represents. I used an image of an otherworldly humanoid creature, an image of smoke, and a partial image of a glowing fiddle against a cosmic background that I expanded.

I have been learning how to create smart objects and masks to blend layers by utilizing adjustment layers, blending modes, and blending sliders. These techniques can be used to create dynamic and engaging compositions.

How do you envision combining your military experience, technical web skills, and photography training in your future career or creative goals?

I plan on creating a website to showcase works that I am especially proud of as part of my portfolio. I plan to use my editing skills as a gateway to more ambitious photography projects particularly in landscape.

Concerning my military experience, I hope to serve as an inspiration to other veterans, especially to those who are disabled, to find their own creative outlets. Many of us struggle in our daily lives, and my photography has been a help in managing my emotions and serves as an outlet for my own mental health challenges.

To find out more about Travis Johnson’s work, visit @digitalwork_by_tj. To find out more about our photography courses and programs, visit our digital photography hub. Check out our Student Gallery, and schedule a meeting with our Admissions team to find out about our tuition, financial aid, scholarships, and more.