Artist Spotlight
Harvey Tillis
If you have been to a live jazz performance in Chicago there is a good chance you have crossed paths with photographer Harvey Tillis… If you are a Jazz musician in Chicago, or anywhere really, there is a good chance you have some of Harvey’s work on your website or social media.
Harvey has been a self-taught freelance photographer for over 40 years. In his own words… “Commercially, I apply my photojournalistic style and fine art sense of design to the capture of environmental portraits, events, and documentary projects for a variety of nonprofits, corporate clients, and government agencies who value my eye and the way I approach their assignments. I consider myself a partner with clients, helping them to maximize the strategic power of pictures.”
An FSC member for over 6 years, Harvey is a continuous presence at FSC for our jazz performances encapsulating the constantly rotating cast of musicians and artists creating in our gallery. His work is currently up in our DEAR JAZZ installation as well as numerous venues in and around Chicago. We recently sat down with Harvey to get his take on his career and today’s artists and musical climate.
Photo by Kyle Madsen.
INTERVIEW WITH Harvey Tillis
What is one of your first memories of creating a piece of artwork?
I created a collage using photos I cut out of magazines. It was probably 3×4 ft. Don’t remember what glue I decided to use. Honestly, I didn’t realize it was a collage. It was just something I had to create to express whatever was on my mind at the time. Did it many years ago.
Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to follow your passion for photography?
I always wanted to be a photographer even though I didn’t realize it until I was in my early 30s. While working in an unrelated industry I had a series of very frustrating experiences that made me think, “I don’t have to put up with this. I should change and be a photographer.” Didn’t think about what that meant or how long it would take to learn the skills. So I quit one career and started on another.
What keeps you living in the city?
I love city life; the mix of people, sounds, places. Something is happening all the time. Lots of graphic influences. Great music to hear and art to see.
Do you remember your first client?
My little sister. Her job was with a trade association that published a monthly magazine. Could I create a scene for the cover with a nurse teaching students good dental hygiene in a classroom? I thought, “Sure!”. Turns out I had no clue what to do. I was an assistant to an ad agency photographer. Really great guy! He saw I didn’t know a thing and placed himself in the role of being my assistant. Coached me on hiring models and decorating the studio. “You might want to try this. Watch out for that.” I still have the cover. Looks great. I can’t believe I got through it.
Describe your method and vision of your work?
Strongly influenced by photojournalism as well as editorial fashion photography.
Who are your influences as a photographer?
You don’t have enough space for all the influences. Key ones include Alfred Eisenstaedt, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Danny Lyons, Sarah Moon, Tony Gabriel, Arnold Newman, Margaret Bourke-White, Herman Leonard. Jay Maisel, Reid Miles, paintings by Edward Hopper, and sketches by Feliks Topolski.
What drew you to photograph musical performances?
I was influenced when seeing great images from great photographers. Then I realized that being around spontaneous jazz and blues solos is like creating photojournalistic stories. Now I feed off of the energy I hear.
What is it about jazz that intrigues you as a photographer?
I get lost in the music while, at the same time, getting lost in the moments I create photographs. There is no “time”. Only “now”.
What drew you to attending a jazz performance at FSC?
Great vibe. Wide variety of talents and styles of jazz. Very accessible to FSC’s location.
What are some of your favorite venues to shoot at?
Aside from FSC, there’s Green Mill, Jazz Showcase, SPACE, Andy’s, Café at Logan and all the Chicago music festivals. Also, almost anywhere new I can talk my way into for permission to shoot is a fun time.
What are some of the political events you have photographed and how is shooting an event like that different from a live concert?
I have covered Mayors, Governors, Presidents, and Ministers of foreign countries. The biggest difference is how limited my movement is due to Secret Service restrictions.
You are very active on social media. How has Instagram and Facebook affected your career?
I try to be active on Facebook every day. Instagram and LinkedIN often. I keep my website harveytillisphotography.com current with blogs, notices of art events, and many fine art prints for sale. Being active on social media gives me credibility.
How did the pandemic affect your work and does it still?
The pandemic killed all of my commercial work, both corporate and nonprofits. It is coming back very slowly.
Are there still moments when you question your career?
Never.
As an artist what do hang on to for hope and solace as the world has reopened again?
I am applying all the experiences and false-start learning knowledge realized from years in this business. I know there is a market for my work. I am better with my skills than ever before. And I just love being a photographer. I can’t and don’t want to stop.
