We had the good fortune of connecting with David J. Del Grande and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi David J., can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I grew up in Northern New Jersey, just outside of New York City. Then, as a teenager, I found my first love in skateboarding. Thus, taking the bus into the greatest city in the world was my norm; searching for spots to skate developed my wanderlust. When you become a skateboarder your entire worldview changes. And if you really get the bug, the lessons of skateboarding stick with you indefinitely. Firstly, skating taught me tenacity. If you fall nine times, you get up 10. Because the satisfaction of landing that new trick is worth all the bruises your body and mind can withstand. That passion and drive naturally translated to my professional life. Skateboarding also teaches you to not take yourself very seriously, to remain playful. Success in life is a dance. Whether I’m pushing on four wheels or publishing a new photo book project, the path toward achievement holds a rhythm. While you have to grind, it’s also imperative to let that dance unfold.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I make street photography at least five days a week. And my journalist background means that I scribble down the tales, for those who wish to read along. My new language is video—that’s been an exciting addition to my work. My somewhat obsessive practice started when the Covid-19 pandemic shuttered the world. That change and stress was a jolt. My routine began with a short photo session in the early morning hours. Then, I tacked on an afternoon shoot. I added an evening session on top of that. And on the great days, I grab some night photography on a secluded block. “Get busy living or get busy dying,” sparked my dedication to a creative life. I always wanted to publish a photography book, so I did. My second book will be out by the end of this year. Over the last two years, my photos have seen more of the world than I have, showing in galleries from Glasgow to Rome. Currently, photography is only my side hustle, but it’s simply a matter of time before I can spread my wings. My long-term goal is to publish and mentor creatives who don’t fit the mold. So, this path is far from easy, but if my humble story pushes one person to pursue their dream that’s legacy enough.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, it’d have to be the winter, because I’d need to show off Tucson’s stunning pre-dawn light. That means I’d rouse them early enough to catch sunrise at Douglas Spring Trail. Breakfast time means we’re grabbing food on the southside, specifically Taqueria Pico De Gallo. On the chill nights, we’d catch a movie at the Loft Cinema. And a few people watching sessions on Fourth Avenue is a must. Weekends are dedicated to Club Congress for the tunes, but we’d start at the Owl’s Club or Saint Charles Tavern. And we’d absolutely roadtrip to Bisbee, my home away from home. That drive through Cochise County to the Mile High Mining Town, day or night, is indescribable.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Fortunately, I have an infinite list of people who support me unconditionally—my fiancé, friends who are more like family and my pops—however I want to shoutout the dead ends I’ve faced. There’s a spirituality embedded in rejection. Gut punches are far more important. Exiting a profession that’s draining you or walking away from a toxic relationship creates character. On a cellular level you understand the nurturing power of sunshine when you’ve walked through a downpour. And if you’ve courted your own dark side you get to see how positivity doesn’t exist without its counterpart.

Website: www.davidjdelgrande.com

Instagram: @dj_del_grande

Twitter: @SLOSONE

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DJDelGrande

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKffQ-d65uOp3mCVYxi3HlQ

Other: Podcast: https://anchor.fm/thestreetsphotogpodcast

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.