Conversations with Devin P. Grimes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Devin P. Grimes

Hi Devin P., it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It started with my grandmother who bought me a Nikon digital camera as a Christmas gift. As a 7th grader, I began taking photos of my classmates because I was the only student with a digital camera. Of course, teachers did not like this and would make me put my camera away, so I placed it in my pocket at all times. One day I took the camera out my pocket to turn it on and my screen monitor was half way blacked out. The camera worked, but I was unable to see the full frame. Fast forward five years and I was working as a valet for a hotel. Tip money was good and after a few months, I was able to purchase a Nikon 3300. I always wanted to replace my old camera and was finally able to do so.

I began wearing my camera as a part of my everyday outfit, which led to the question, “Are you a photographer?” My first photoshoot, I charged a guy who was an artist, $35. In 2017, I gained a mentor by the name of Rasheed Walker who is the CEO of Nashville PRO-AM. My work with Walker sparked my sports photography career. He hired as an intern and I was able to photograph the Dallas Cowboys for the 2016-17 season.

I started working for the student newspaper MTSU Sidelines at Middle Tennessee State University. I gained experience and later joined the MT Athletics staff as a student worker. I graduated with a Journalism degree. I launched my business, what is now, The Digital Memories on Feb 10, 2017.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has been a smooth road for the most part but we know that things could happen, but it is about how we react to the situation. All things won’t go as planned, and sometimes who you have trust in, is not trustworthy.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a photographer that can capture any live moment and create and capture any vision a client has. I specialize in action photos. I get annoyed trying to pose people, especially when they don’t listen.
A highlight in my career was photographing Grammy nominated producer, Tay Keith’s graduation photos, in 2018 that was published in Forbes. I am known for directing and photographing Florida A&M’s jersey reveal photos, a collaboration with the LeBron James brand in 2021. I am also known for working and still currently with Allen Davis, the creator of the iconic dance, The Griddy.
I am most proud of being able to travel the world and create relationships from my camera.
What sets me apart from others is that I have been on both sides. I know what it is like working behind the scenes, I know what it is like to be congratulated and shamed. The feeling of being at the top and your work seen all across the world but remaining humble and thankful.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Although it was hard to create, I was blessed to earn a position with the Tennessee Titans as a Marketing Photographer. It reassured to me that even in the middle of a storm you can achieve.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thedigitalmemories.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dpgdigital1/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-p-grimes-179102195
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChoq18SyXVdxjSxIf9FY3BA