Photography goes from hobby to business for FAMU grad

 

Larry Dula is a local photographer who graduated from Florida A&M University last year.

A native of St. Petersburg, Dula came to FAMU in 2012 to study occupational therapy. He had a passion for helping others and felt that this would be the best fit for him.

 Somewhere along the way his passion broadened.

In the fall of 2015 Dula decided to explore his interest in photography. He was a bit apprehensive to dive in head-first because the equipment he needed was expensive.

“I wanted to take high-quality images in my junior year, but never took the leap to buy a camera because they were so expensive. I took a leap of faith and bought a few cameras and with trial and error and a lot of experience, I am where I am today,” said Dula.

He is booked for all types of events from weddings and birthday parties to video shoots. He is best known for his video quality.

 There is something about Dula’s technique that impresses many of his clients.

Shaquerria Jones, 22, said, “Larry took my graduation photos in the fall of 2018. I love his professionalism. There wasn’t a time he didn’t respond to any of my questions or concerns leading up to the shoot. Even during the shoot, he was very patient and assisting.”

A few years back FAMU’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication offered a program for photography majors but it was eliminated due to budget cuts.

“I did not know FAMU had a photography when I enrolled. I probably wouldn't have majored in photography because I wasn't interested in photography when I enrolled at FAMU,” Dula said.

Dula said, “I love that there is no right or wrong way to take a picture and a million different ways to achieve one image. I love the reactions a person gets when they see a photo taken of themselves and I love that one photo can last a lifetime.”

Dula has become more skilled over the years and has big plans for his future. They include adding to his current photography business which is DBDL Photography (Different Breed Different League) and applying to graduate school to earn a master’s in occupational therapy because he still desires to work in the field.

“My plans for the future is to become my own boss and a filmmaker. I really enjoy photography and film and I believe I can really excel in this area.”