Episode 37 - Dimitry Mak on Music Photography, Portraiture, Creativity & Mental Health
On this episode of The PHYS Podcast, Tyson Martin sits down with Brooklyn-based music, portrait, and lifestyle photographer Dimitry Mak for an honest conversation about creativity, storytelling, music culture, photography, and the challenges of building a career across multiple creative industries.
Dimitry's work exists at the intersection of music and photography, two worlds that have shaped his creative identity from the very beginning. With a passion for visual storytelling and a deep appreciation for music culture, he has built a body of work that captures both the energy of performance and the humanity behind the artists he photographs.
Known for his distinctive style and ability to create authentic connections with his subjects, Dimitry has worked with musicians, performers, and creatives while contributing photography to publications including Revolver. His images combine atmosphere, emotion, and storytelling, creating portraits and editorial work that feel both personal and cinematic.
In this episode, Dimitry shares the story of how he first discovered photography, the influence music has had on his creative vision, and the realities of navigating two highly competitive creative industries simultaneously.
Tyson and Dimitry also explore the relationship between creativity and mental health, discussing the pressures artists face, the importance of self-awareness, and how creative expression can become both a challenge and a source of healing.
In this episode, you'll discover:
• Dimitry Mak's journey into photography and visual storytelling
• How music influenced the development of his creative voice
• What it's like working as a photographer within the music industry
• Behind-the-scenes insights from shooting for Revolver and other creative projects
• The challenges of balancing multiple creative careers simultaneously
• How portrait and lifestyle photography help tell deeper stories
• The connection between creativity, personal growth, and mental health
• Lessons learned from working in highly competitive creative industries
• Why staying grounded is essential for long-term creative success
This episode is a thoughtful and inspiring exploration of what it means to pursue creativity across different disciplines while maintaining authenticity and purpose.
Dimitry's story highlights the realities many creatives face today: balancing passion with profession, ambition with well-being, and artistic growth with personal resilience. His experiences offer valuable insight into building a sustainable creative life while remaining connected to the work that matters most.
Whether you're a photographer, musician, artist, content creator, or someone navigating your own creative path, this conversation provides meaningful lessons on perseverance, storytelling, and staying true to your vision.
Creativity isn't just about making something beautiful. It's about finding a way to express who you are while remaining connected to the people and experiences that inspire you.
Follow Dimitry Mak:
Instagram: @dimitrymakphoto
Threads: @dimitrymakphoto
Website: www.dimitrymak.co