By LAURA BROOKHART / Community Columnist

Born in New Orleans, Tommy Daspit made his way through Tampa, Fla., Dallas, Washington state, Indiana and the Central African Republic before arriving in Helena two years ago. He still remains a rabid and faithful Saints fan.

The son of musicians, Daspit’s father and grandfathers on both sides were all professional photographers.

“I grew up surrounded by photography and music. I think this explains why I have such a visceral response to both. A powerful piece of music or a camera in my hand can transport me emotionally and physically. I feel truly blessed to have had those influences in my life. For the record, I cannot carry a tune and have no sense of rhythm whatsoever. It’s a good thing that I can take a good picture!”

Other quirky details he reveals: that he has not owned a television in years and is an avid reader on a wide variety of subjects — people, spirituality, art, culture, nature, history. He loves all kinds of music.

It was his wife, Kelly, who is responsible for getting Daspit to Alabama. They met in Mississippi.

“There, playing foosball opposite me (and kicking my butt) was the most striking, beautiful, and amazing girl I had ever seen. Her name was Kelly, her voice was music to my ears, her eyes were piercing, and I was smitten.”

The Daspits have three children: Evan, 6; Aanae, 8; and Wilder, 8.

Daspit photographed his first wedding at 16 and has worked as a newspaper and freelance photojournalist and as a fashion photographer.

“I love what I do and I never lose sight of how fortunate I am to be able to say that,” he said.

Daspit has been published in W Magazine, Better Homes & Gardens and the Shelby Living bridal issue.

Currently he is writing an ebook, which is about 75 percent completed. It will be interactive on an iPad with links, interactive images, and graphics.

On other platforms it will be in PDF form. It mirrors closely the photography classes he teaches and will be free to those who take the class. Otherwise, it will sell for $9.95.

See Tommydaspit.com/ and facebook.com/tdaspit.

 

Laura Brookhart can be reached by email at labro16@yahoo.com.