Masshuu is a Deaf fashion photographer who specializes in Men's Fashion! His advice? Don't let failure get to you! #DeafAtWork #NDEAM

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[VIDEO DESCRIPTION AND TRANSCRIPT: Masshuu is seated with the photo studio in the background.

MASSHUU: It all started with my Dad, who also dabbed a bit with photography. He would give me his camera for me to play with. I would point and shoot at random things. I really liked fashion, so when I was playing with the camera, I would incorporate both photography and fashion together. When I enrolled at Gallaudet University, there was a fashion show and they needed a photographer. I decided to volunteer for it. From there, people encouraged me to pursue photography and my experience grew.

Black and white video of Masshuu moving around studio lighting in the photo studio. In the center, a white border surrounds white text “MASSHUU” underneath, appears in white text “MALE FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER.” Masshuu is putting together lighting equipment.

MASSHUU: My name is Matthew Vita, and Masshuu is my nickname. I’m a photographer with a special interest in Men's fashion.

Black and white video of Masshuu giving his model pose adjustments. Behind the shot of Masshuu taking photos in the photo studio.

MASSHUU: I studied Graphic Design at Gallaudet University. I decided on that major because society requires us to have a stable job, it would be hard to make ends meet if I were just a photographer. As I designed, I was often asked to use stock photos, but I really didn’t like that. I started taking my own photos to use in my design work. Seeing how my style grew, that was when I knew it was my true calling.

Black and white video of Masshuu pulling out clothing for his model. Masshuu aiming the camera, nodding at the photo and signing thank you to his model. White text appears at the bottom center, “I get up every morning, and I’m happy because I am doing what I really want to do. For many years, I’ve dreamed of becoming a male fashion photographer.” Light blue text “- MASSHUU” and a light blue line outlines the left side of the text.

MASSHUU: My day to day job tasks are unpredictable because I run my own business as a freelancer. Sometimes, my day will be all about getting in touch with my clients or businesses. I make sure contracts are being handled, I send in bids or packages, I agree on a contract and schedule a time for the shoot. Another day could be studio time which could take all day. On other days, I could be editing. All of this never happens on the same day because I would lose my focus and become mentally exhausted. Each day always have a different purpose.

Various black and white shots of Masshuu at work in his studio.

MASSHUU: If you want to be a photographer, you have to play with and get to know your camera. Find out what the lens do or how to adjust the exposure. You can’t just pick up the camera, take a photo and say you’re a good photographer. You have to immerse yourself into it and understand why you’re taking these photos. You will have to work for it, you have to network and hand out your business cards. When you go to an event and network, people will remember you.

Black and white shot of Masshuu nodding as he takes photos, pointing out outfits to his models, and smiling at a shot he just took.

MASSHUU: I have a confession to make. I failed two photography classes. It doesn’t mean anything. It doesn’t mean I’m a bad photographer. I moved forward regardless. Keep aiming towards what you’re most passionate about. You will get there!

Black and white video of Masshuu laughing as he points out something to his model.

Black and white clip of Yan focusing on her laptop and a clip of a dog at her foot while she works at her desk. Video cuts to a gray background. Many small red and blue balls appear and swirl towards the center of the video before revealing the NAD logo in red, blue, and white with a water ripple effect. The copyright text appears in white underneath, “National Association of the Deaf, Copyright 2021, All Rights Reserved.”]