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From Passion to Pixel: How @Ad__sneaks is Transforming Sneaker Culture Through Photography 

At Urban Syndicate, we’re all about exploring the unique intersections of art, culture, and personal expression, few things capture this better than the world of sneaker photography. We sat down with Andy Dutton (AKA @Ad__sneaks) to learn more about the story as a photographer turning a lifelong passion for sneakers into a vibrant visual art form. What started as a childhood love for sneakers has evolved into a dynamic social movement that celebrates the creativity and individuality embodied in every pair.

Through the lens of @Ad__sneaks, we’ll explore how sneaker photography has become a powerful way to connect with like-minded enthusiasts, share stories, and push the boundaries of both sneaker culture and photography and how you can be more involved!

Andy Dutton AKA @ad__Sneaks

What inspired you to start photographing sneakers specifically?

Initially and still to this day, my inspiration has alway been to have fun. I’ve loved sneakers since I was a kid and being able to highlight and showcase sneakers from my collection in a way that I want to, is super fun. I view sneakers as wearable art, and being able to photograph them is just me trying to share my personal appreciation for them.  

Can you tell us about your journey from being an amateur photographer to becoming a famous sneaker photographer?

My love for photography started when I was in high school. I just had a little Canon point and shoot and loved taking that with me everywhere I would go, doing stuff with my friends, and being outside with my family. In college I bought my first interchangeable lens camera and took it on lots of backpacking trips, and hikes. I really honed in my understanding of how to use a camera with landscape photography. When the pandemic happened, Being inside most of that time, I got super bored and decided to take photos of all the sneakers in my collection at that time. From there I found joy in experimenting with different angles, lighting, and color combinations to really highlight the shoes how I wanted. To this day I just want to have fun and experiment, trying to find cool poses to make the shoes look as good as possible. 

Who are some of your biggest influences in photography and sneaker culture?

I would say my dad. He was the main reason why I picked up a camera in the first place. I always remember as a kid, him having a camera on him, documenting our lives, and seeing him find fulfilment in landscape photography was something that I thought was super cool. In sneaker culture I really admire the work from the likes of Tinker, Salehe Bembury, Jae Tips, Chris Gibbs, and so on. There really are so many talented minds in sneakers and it’s always increabile when their skills are on full display, truly taking sneakers and the art in them to new places. 

How do you think sneaker photography has evolved over the years?

I think more people are doing it. It’s been cool to see lots of people share their love of sneakers in the way they feel best. That and lots of photos you see now have some form of lace work involved, styling them and placing them to compliment the sneaker.

What role do you think social media has played in the rise of sneaker culture and photography?

A Huge roll. Social media (for better or worse) has brought the eyes and attention of many into a culture that was once very niche. It’s very cool to be able to connect with so many like minded people and talk about sneakers though. Being able to see and hear the stories others have about their own sneaker collections, why certain pairs are special to them, etc. It’s a great way to connect with people through those experiences. 

Can you discuss the relationship between sneaker brands and photographers? How do collaborations typically come about?

I’m relatively new to working with brands, so my experience might not be the best example, but for the most part if a brand wants me to take some photos, they reach out and we chat about what they have in mind for the project and just run with it. One brand that I recently started shooting with is Nouveau. They are a sneaker boutique here in the states, and working with them has been super fun. We talk about a lot of different ideas about how they want the images to look for certain releases they have, so it’s been really great working with them. They are awesome!

Ad_Sneaks _ Jae Tips x Saucony Omni9

What is your proudest moment or project in your career so far?

Hard to pick one! I’ve been very fortunate to be able to work with some cool brands and meet some amazing people. Just being where I’m at right now is a blessing, and I just hope to continue to grow my skill set and hopefully shoot some big campaigns one day. 

How do you stay inspired and keep your work fresh and innovative?

By not being content with where I’m currently at in my skill set. I want to do something new or different every time I use my camera. Most of the time I don’t think I am, but constantly trying to do that, growth happens over time. Looking at my work a few months ago compared to now,  I see growth, and I want to keep doing that. 

Nike KD 4

What are some of the most memorable or unique sneakers you’ve photographed?

The one that comes to mind recently was the Oregon ‘Ducks Of A Feather’ Nike Air Max 1. It was the Oregon PE that was released on GOAT during Air Max Day this year. I wasn’t expecting to get a pair to shoot, but the opportunity just kind of happened and it was really cool to be able to shoot those and just have fun with it. 

Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about?

Nothing at the moment for any brands or anything, but I recently picked up  the Bike Air Jordan 4RM from Nigel Sylvester and am excited to see those in person and take photos of them. 

How do you balance your passion for sneakers with your professional work?

I am a middle school teacher and father of 2 boys, so life is pretty busy, but sneakers/photography are what I like to do in my down time, after the kids are in bed or late nights on weekends. 

What advice would you give to aspiring sneaker photographers?

There are lots of people that take photos of sneakers and each one of them has a different style. Do your own thing, enjoy learning and growing, but ultimately just have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously. 

What impact do you hope your photography has on sneaker culture and the photography community?

Hopefully it inspires people to think for themselves and buy and get sneakers they enjoy. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy sneakers. Let your self expression come out in what you create and what you wear. I hope my work inspires people to do that. 

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