Justin Hoard has been using his skills of photography to tell the stories of the Dallas around us. | Photo via Justin Hoard
Rising artists and creatives are taking over the Dallas scene and we want to highlight those in the community. Today, we’re spotlighting lifestyle photographer Justin Hoard, whose work has beautifully captured the essence of the city.
Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.
How did you get your start in photography?
I first started shooting around probably 8th or 9th grade, but I’ve always been into archives and documentation. My family always had cameras out and we have so many photo books, so I guess it got ingrained pretty early that capturing the moment is kind of serious and worth doing.
Describe your style — what are your influences?
I’m really intrigued with minimalist details. For instance, you can have a whole party going on, but I’m going to take a photo of the empty cups and debris that’s been made, ‘cause that in itself tells the story and gives the viewer a chance to use their imagination.
What are some accomplishments in your career so far?
[I like] the exploration of texture and symmetry and how the natural world sort of paints and correlates itself. A lot of that again goes back to a lot of great skate and music photographers who make the most of their surroundings.
How does the city and its people inspire your work?
I think the most inspiring thing about the city is the hustle and bustle and the style dynamics. I’m from a small town so this is a pretty opposite experience. But Dallas is just wild and the people kind of lean into it and that brings a lot of character to the surface.
Now it’s your turn to share the spotlight
Do you know someone who deserves a community spotlight? Hit our line and let us know.
Brown Noise: A Kinda Brown Comedy Show | Tuesday, Oct. 22-Wednesday, Oct. 23 | 7 p.m. | Addison Improv, Addison | $15+ | Celebrate diversity in the comedy world as comedians share their different and humourous stories from their cultural upbringings.
Tinashe - Match My Freak World Tour | Tuesday, Oct. 22 | 8 p.m. | South Side Ballroom | $35+ | The singer and dancer brings her talents to the Big D for this one-night-only performance.
Wednesday, Oct. 23
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” | Various dates | Times vary | Kalita Humphreys Theater | $32+ | This family-friendly comedic play follows vampire hunters on the hunt for Count Dracula.
“Terrifier 3" | Wednesday, Oct. 23 | 8 p.m. | Galaxy Drive- In, Ennis | $4+ | This film is not for the faint at heart, watch the horror this clown creates ... if you dare.
Thursday, Oct. 24
Barks and Beats | Thursday, Oct. 24 | 6-8 p.m. | Addison Circle Park (Green) | Free | Take the pups out for a night of paw-fect tunes and outdoor fun.
Paint Truck Yard pink - Survivors Slingin’ Drinks | Thursday, Oct. 24 | 5-8 p.m. | Truck Yard Dallas | Free | All proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen as this all pink theme event raises money for a good cause.
A 140-acre, $2 billion project called River Central has been proposed for west Dallas. The project would include a hotel, office space, concert venue, retail, and town homes 4.8 miles from DFW Airport. (WFAA)
Civic
Early voting has started. Keep tabs on where you can vote and how you can vote during the early voting which ends Friday, Nov. 2.
Sports
Dallas Wings parted ways with head coach Latricia Trammell. The team will be hiring a new head coach and general manager for the upcoming season. (Dallas Voice)
Events
National nonprofit Shatterproof will be hosting a walk to raise awareness of those living in recovery from addiction. The Shatterproof Walk to End Addiction Stigma will take place at The Sound at Cypress Waters on Saturday, Nov. 9.
Eat
Lake Highlands’ new La Casita Coffee, located in Half Price Books, is now serving cocktails. Check out the new offerings. (Lake Highlands Advocate)
Number
550K. That’s how many Fletchers corn dogs were sold during the Texas State Fair. Find out more fun facts surrounding the three-week annual event: WFAA has the stats.
Listen
Is Luka Dončić ready? Get the biggest stories every day from the local experts of the Dallas Mavericks with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Number
$244. That’s a real flight deal from DFW to Puerto Rico this year. Sign up for Going’s Premium plan + never miss a great deal again.*
Finance
It’s time to take a break from your high-interest debt. For one of the longest no-interest periods on a balance transfer card experts have seen in a while,check this out.*
Travel
For a limited time, save up to 50% on a AAA Membership — and add an additional driver for free or at a discounted rate. Members access AAA Roadside Assistance 24/7/365, plus savings on flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and more with AAA Travel. Join AAA before this deal ends.*
Category
Seasonal
Celebrate Día de los Muertos
There will be many events in the DFW area celebrating Día de los Muertos | Photo via WFAA
The celebration of life and death and the ancestors that watch over loved ones are the focal point of the holiday known as Día de los Muertos.
Falling on Friday, Nov. 1-Saturday, Nov. 2 this year, the holiday is celebrated internationally, including right here in Dallas.
Dallas’ official Día de los Muertos festival and parade will take place this Saturday, Oct. 26. This will be the fifth annual cultural celebration celebrated at the Dallas City Hall, 1500 Marilla St. Here’s what to know:
The festival lasts from 2-10 p.m., with a parade taking place from 7-8 p.m.
For more information on the event and pictures from the previous, check out their Facebook. Tickets are on sale now.
The Buy
The Buy
This 4-in-1 car charger. It plugs into your car’s auxiliary power outlet and includes retractable USB-C and Lightning cables as well as USB-C and USB-A ports so you can charge up to four devices at once.
We are nine days away from Halloween, will you be dressing up your furry loved one? We would love to see the costume creations you come up with featuring you and your pet. Send us pictures to be featured in our next Instagram post.