Sykadelic Visuals: An Interview With Photographer Syles Le
By Lea Byrnes Art
Syles Le, also known as Sykadelic Visuals, is a Phoenix-based photographer and creative director specializing in bold, creative photography that captures the personality and style of his clients. A self-described workaholic, his unique flair with photography sets him apart. Although he only recently entered the world of professional photography, his ever-expanding portfolio is gaining more and more attention by the day.
Photography by Syles Le
Syles Le’s’ journey began over three years ago after becoming interested in photography and taking digital media and film classes at his university. This is where he mastered the concepts of photography, such as lighting and camera inner-workings. “I’ve always been intrigued about what goes into creating a unique and eye-capturing picture,” he shares. “What truly inspired me to start taking my photography more seriously was a series of photos I observed from one of my favorite artists, Rueguh. There was a unique style that could make his work stand out from the rest. Whenever someone sees his work, they know it was from him. This inspired me to start the journey to finding my own unique style in the space, and I feel that I’m getting closer to that every day.” By the start of 2023, Syles had begun to market his services professionally, pouring his entire heart into his work and quickly gaining recognition from the local photography scene.
Photography by Syles Le
When it comes to his artistic process, Syles says that he is often inspired by other artists, and regularly seeks out this inspiration within his daily life. “I pretty much am always brainstorming concepts/ideas for shoots,” he says. “I follow tons of artists on social media, and that isn’t just limited to photographers. Constantly consuming art already puts my mind in the subconscious state to create.” Syles keeps a list of various brainstorms and ideas, ready to share these ideas with clients who don’t have a concept in mind for their shoot yet. Once a concept has been settled upon, he maps the entire process out in detail so that he can focus on taking the best images possible. “With an emphasis on unique photography styles and fun, I aim to make my clients feel at home and comfortable,” shares Syles. “Photos come out well when the subject in them is comfortable.”
For Syles, the best part about being a photographer is the people and the community. “Being a photographer is a unique customer service when clients give you their full trust with your vision; their reaction to your work is like scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl or a buzzer-beater at the half. I’ve had clients offer to take me to lunch, or bring something to drink when they’re on their way. It’s small acts like that that make this feel like less of a job and more just hanging out with super cool and creative people.” Syles says that the positivity of his community encourages him to continue to grow as an artist. “A younger me never would have imagined that I’d be meeting new people on a consistent basis or reaching out to random artists and clients,” he says. “Before attempting to legitimately grow my own brand/business, I was nervous to start and I think that’s one of the reasons it took me so long to actually get going. Being on the other side of that now, almost all the people I have worked with have been so kind, and that’s really heartwarming to me.”
Photography by Syles Le
Syles says that his biggest support system is his girlfriend, Emma. Since the beginning of his journey as an artist, Emma has been his number one supporter. “She helps me execute concepts in my head, spreads the word about my business, and supports me every step of the way. I probably wouldn’t be doing this or taking this risk without her,” Syles shares. Outside of photography, he is also passionate about fashion and music, which have influenced his own artistic style. “I’m always on the search for new music, and I always want to feel good in what I’m wearing,” he says. “I also know these two things can make photos pop when fashion or music is incorporated into a photo project.” Many of Syles’ photographs look as though they are straight out of a fashion magazine, full of confidence and swagger. Although he specializes in this creative type of photography, Syles welcomes all kinds of clients, offering everything from fashion photography to corporate headshots to real estate photography.
The most powerful lesson that Syles has learned from being an artist is to take chances and leave no stone unturned. As a very logical and calculated person, Syles says it took a lot of courage for him to break out of his comfort zone and begin “...pursuing opportunities [he] wouldn’t normally pursue to start gaining valuable experience. Those uncomfortable experiences have proved the most rewarding.” By pushing himself to try new things as an artist, Syles opened himself up to an entire new world of opportunities and a thriving artistic community. “Anything you do can turn into a bigger opportunity if you play your cards right, and seeing everything for its potential is what opened my eyes to this business’s true nature,” he says. With his natural talent and unique approach to his craft, there is no question that Syles Le is a young, up-and-coming artist that we should all be on the lookout for!
