Check Out Tory Rust’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tory Rust

Tory, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m Tory Rust, a commercial photographer and motion director with a pretty wild journey that’s taken me from a farm in Fargo, North Dakota, to the vibrant streets of New York City, to sunny LA, and now to the laid-back vibes of Sayulita, Mexico. Growing up on a farm gave me a unique perspective and a serious appreciation for the beauty in everyday moments. After high school, I headed to Denver for college, where I studied communications. That background helped me get a strong grasp on how to tell a story, which is something I bring into every photo I take.

My love for fashion and photography eventually led me to New York City, where I dove headfirst into graduate school at the School of Visual Arts. NYC was where my career really kicked off. I spent years in the city, grinding and learning, working with some amazing brands like Sephora, Adidas, Puma, and Covergirl. After New York, I made my way to Los Angeles for a few years, continuing to build my portfolio and expand my network in the industry.

Now, I’ve found my happy place in Sayulita, Mexico. The colorful streets and chill lifestyle here inspire me every day. Along with my photography, I run *Live Your Magic*, a business all about helping people embrace their true selves and live life with a little extra sparkle. Whether I’m behind the camera or working on *Live Your Magic*, my mission is to spread good vibes, celebrate individuality, and make sure everyone feels seen and empowered.

From North Dakota to Mexico, my journey has been all about chasing creativity, embracing change, and finding the magic in every moment.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Over the years, I’ve faced my share of challenges, and it hasn’t always been easy. Working for yourself is one of those challenges that people don’t always talk about. Sure, it has its perks, but it can also be incredibly lonely. There were times when I felt like I was directionless, trying anything and everything I can. When you’re your own boss, you’re responsible for every decision, every success, and every failure. That pressure can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure it all out without a roadmap.

Another big challenge for me has been finding balance, especially when I was caught up in hustle culture. For a long time, I was all about the grind, constantly working, pushing myself to do more, to be better, and to achieve more. But that came at a cost. My personal life took a hit, and I found myself feeling burnt out and disconnected from the people and things that really mattered to me. It took time, and a lot of reflection, to realize that success doesn’t have to mean sacrificing everything else in your life.

Along the way, I’ve also learned how crucial it is to take on work that feels truly aligned with who I am and what I want to create. That means saying *no* more often, which isn’t always easy, but it’s been essential for me to maintain my sense of purpose and creativity. Choosing projects that resonate with me on a deeper level has not only made my work more fulfilling but has also allowed me to bring my best self to every project I take on.

These challenges have definitely shaped me, and while I’m still working through some of them, I’ve learned a lot along the way. I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask for help, to take a step back, and to be kind to myself. I’ve also realized the importance of finding a community, whether it’s other creatives, friends, or mentors, to share the journey with. And most importantly, I’ve learned that while the hustle can be rewarding, it’s crucial to make space for rest, relationships, and the things that bring genuine joy and fulfillment.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work as a photographer and director is all about capturing authenticity, positivity, and genuine expression. I believe that every image should tell a story that resonates on a deeper level, and I strive to create visuals that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. My work is characterized by its bright, bold, and energetic style—whether I’m shooting a high-energy fashion campaign or a more intimate, personal portrait, I always aim to infuse each shot with vibrancy and life.

I’m passionate about creating visuals that celebrate individuality and diversity, making sure that every subject feels seen, empowered, and true to themselves. My approach is rooted in the belief that photography is more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of a moment, a person, or an idea in a way that feels real and relatable.

Through my work, I aim to bring out the best in my subjects, highlighting their unique qualities and making sure their true selves shine through. Whether I’m working on a commercial project for a global brand or a personal shoot, I bring the same level of energy, creativity, and attention to detail to everything I do. Ultimately, my goal is to create images that not only look incredible but also make people feel something—something positive, uplifting, and real.

If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
A few key qualities have been super important to my success as a photographer and director.

**Resilience** has been huge. The creative world is full of ups and downs, and being able to bounce back from setbacks and keep pushing forward has been essential.

**Adaptability** is another big one. Staying flexible and being open to new trends, technologies, and client needs while still staying true to my own creative vision has helped me stay relevant and keep growing.

**Authenticity** has also been key. Being true to myself, my style, and my values has allowed me to create work that really connects with people. When I’m genuine in my approach, the right opportunities and connections seem to follow naturally.

**Good communication** is crucial too. Building strong relationships with clients and collaborators comes down to being able to clearly share ideas, listen to feedback, and work together effectively. It’s all about teamwork and making sure everyone’s on the same page.

**A solid work ethic** and a commitment to doing my best work have driven me to keep pushing the boundaries of what I can do. Whether it’s refining my skills, exploring new ideas, or just putting in the extra time to get things right, I’m always looking for ways to improve.

And finally, **passion** is the foundation of it all. My love for photography and storytelling keeps me motivated and excited about my work, no matter what challenges come my way.

These qualities, along with a deep belief in the power of positivity and self-expression, have been crucial in helping me build a career that’s both successful and fulfilling.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.toryrust.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toryrust

Image Credits
Tory Rust