Tyson Jerry (Dziedzic) is a photographer, cinematographer, and passionate change maker (i.e., Guinness World Record holder for 'Longest Journey by Car Using Alternative Fuel' after driving 48 535km using pure waste vegetable oil). His work, like his journeys, covers a wide swath of territory. He lives a life of fascination with our world and a deep concern for it. It is my honour this month to direct your attention to the work and person of Tyson Jerry.

How did you get interested in photography?

I was introduced to my first camera when I was 7 years old. I was given an old Kodak Pocket Instamatic with the flashcubes. You know, those little cubes of light that were spent after four uses? That thing was amazing. Once the novelty of being the proud new owner of an Instamatic wore off, I decided to take some photos. The pictures I took were… as you’d imagine, pics from a 7 year old. Our cat Leroy and the exterior of my mom and dad's house were frequent 'go-to' subjects.  Photography at that age was enough to pique my curiosity. It wasn’t until much later that I decided to get serious and buy a Canon EOS Elan 7e 35mm film SLR.  It was at the time when digital was really taking off.  I told everyone, including myself, if I learned photography on film first, I’d be better off in the future.... In reality, I wasn't able to afford a digital SLR.  Ha!   

How long have you been a photographer?

21 years. However, 11 of those years were spent with a simple point and shoot.

What is your favorite place to photograph? Or subject? 

My favorite place is a tricky question.  All locations have their individual challenges.  I like the pressure of events to get “the shot” but I equally enjoy sitting in nature experimenting with filters and HDRs.

How can photographers help change/impact the world, while they are traveling?

Having visited a handful of countries, I’ve come to understand one thing. Powerful imagery can have a larger impact on people than words.  A photo can go international without any of the messaging being lost in translation.  A simple story can be told or a complex issue can be brought to light because of one photo.    

Are there rules in other countries people need to be aware of about who or what you can or cannot shoot?

Just be respectful.  Just because you have a camera in hand doesn’t give you the power of Zeus. Use your words, hand gestures, smiles, and genuine personality to gain access to those places or people.

Any photography tips you want to share?  Is there anything else you'd like to share with us?

Community is king in the photo world.  If you involve yourself with other photographers, you can learn a lot from one another.   Organize photo walks, crowd source huge events and get involved! Your only weakness is your unwillingness to become engaged.

To view more of Tyson Jerry's work, please head to:

http://www.tysonjerry.com/

http://klixweddingphotography.com/

facebook.com/TysonJerry

flickr.com/photos/tysonjerry/

twitter.com/TysonJerry

tysonjerry.tumblr.com/

All photos courtesy and copyright Tyson Jerry

Jordan Oram is the Photography Editor for Wandering Educators