Setting Captured Moments Free: JJ Tiziou Gives Away Thousands of Dance Photographs

Art is a funny thing. As JJ Tiziou, photographer for the How Philly Moves project put it, it’s is simultaneously “worthless” and “priceless.”

Since 2008, Tiziou has been photographing Philadelphians dancing. The diversity he’s captured through this project is moving, and reflects the rich flavors of our city. Through five community dance photo sessions in Philadelphia, Tiziou has collected thousands upon thousands of photographs of beautiful movement. This project is explained in greater detail in an article that I wrote in December, after acting as a volunteer during his latest photo session.

A few weeks ago, Tiziou held an event to share, share, share. He shared a slideshow of photographs from the December photo session. “Look! It’s me!” whispered some guests when they saw their image projected in high definition on the large screen. Others didn’t so much whisper as burst out in joy at seeing themselves featured in the photographs.

He shared with us his love for Monica McIntyre, an extraordinary singer and musician who performed while the slideshow ran in the background. After the first ten seconds of her very first song, I was hooked. Her demeanor, her honest lyrics, her peaceful melodies played on the electric cello, that voice… I was an instant fan. Needless to say, I bought both of her CD’s that very night.

Tiziou also shared his love for the Red Hot Ramblers, an upbeat band that reminded me of being in New Orleans. They were pure fun to listen to and had guests singing, dancing and laughing throughout their set.

Tiziou shared the documentary video that the talented Ellen Reynolds created based on the December photo session (view below or click here). It was thoughtful, moving, and it bared the soul of the How Philly Moves project.

Tiziou spoke to us and shared parts of the journey that led him to this most recent How Philly Moves session. He shared from the heart, and even if you had just met him recently, it felt like he was speaking to you as a good friend in his own living room. He shared where he might go as his journey continues, and even asked for our guidance and input (feel free to give him your input here! Yes, he wants to hear from you!).

Most importantly, Tiziou shared a recent decision of his to make all of his photographs publicly available. This is huge. In an industry where self-sufficiency directly depends on placing a price on your artistic talent, and charging whenever possible, Tiziou decided instead, that all of his images were really meant to be shared and given away, not sold. We, the guests, were floored and humbled when we heard this.

I am writing this article not only to review Tiziou’s event or to shed more light on what a treasure he is to the Philadelphia community, but also because he gave all of us a task; to spread this message: If you (or your organization/event) have been photographed by Tiziou in the past, and you’d like free high resolution digital images of any the photographs, you're in luck! There are a few simple steps to accessing the photos. The directions are available on Tiziou's blog. This does not just apply to How Philly Moves photographs, but a multitude of other images that Tiziou has captured at festivals, at marches, community events, and private events. This is a tremendous opportunity!

If you know anyone who has been photographed, please let them know about this as well! Tiziou made the heartfelt decision to share his images, but is relying on our help to spread the word to those who might be interested (hence this blog post!). For those who were recently photographed in the December How Philly Moves session, some of those photos can be seen here, and you can also view a super cool video of the images below:

Tiziou is not sure where his journey will bring him next. Perhaps another How Philly Moves photo session for 2015, perhaps a greater focus on portrait photography (his most basic, foundational philosophy in photography is that “Everyone is Photogenic” and he has built an inspiring collection of portraits based on this belief). He may become more involved with photography that promotes social and environmental justice. Wherever his journey takes him, please consider being a monthly supporter of his work. He asked guests to consider supporting him, and to do so at a level that is hardly noticeable to them. The cost of a cup of coffee, even. This will help allow Tiziou to continue the meaningful, beautiful work he does in Philadelphia, with Philadelphia, for Philadelphia.