Tyrone McCants

Owner & Photographer

About

I’m Tyrone Z. McCants, a multidisciplinary professional at the intersection of visual storytelling and community wellness. With over 15 years of combined experience in media production, photography, and mental health services, I’ve dedicated my career to capturing humanity through both the camera lens and compassionate client care. On one path, I’m the Founder and Lead Photographer at Zire Photography & Graphics, where I specialize in lifestyle portraiture, documentary storytelling, and creative direction for individuals, brands, and institutions. My work has been featured by Toyota, ESPN, Showtime Sports, and Parents Magazine, and exhibited in galleries such as Art Intersection (AZ) and Calabar Gallery (NYC). I’ve led impactful projects, such as The Proud Poppas Photo Project and “What Is Hip-Hop?” Project, and multiple fine art photography books that explore identity, fatherhood, culture, and connection. On the other hand, I’m a dedicated professional in mental health and social services. I support diverse populations by implementing therapeutic interventions, managing crises, and fostering safe spaces that promote growth and healing. My background includes direct services for youth with behavioral and mental health challenges, program facilitation, and trauma-informed care. Whether I’m behind the camera or beside someone in need, my mission remains the same: to amplify voices, preserve stories, and uplift communities. I bring creative vision, empathy, and integrity to every project and every person I work with. Let’s connect if you’re seeking a versatile professional with a passion for impactful storytelling, social change, and collaborative innovation.

Country

United States

City

Edison

Industry

Photography

Skill

Creative Writing, News Writing, Interviewing, Motivational Interviewing, Interview Preparation, Photojournalism, Diversity & Inclusion, Cultural Diversity, DEI & Multicultural Care , Community Outreach, Public Relations, Mental Health, Prevention, Fire Safety, Medical Devices, Medical Education, Behavioral Health, Behavior Based Safety, Behavior Management, Good Clinical Practice (GCP)

Experience

Owner & Photographer

Zire Photography and Graphics

2009-2 - Present · 17 yrs 8 mos

Edison, New Jersey, United States

As the founder of Zire Photography & Graphics, I lead all aspects of creative production, project development, and client relations across diverse industries including arts, education, media, and commercial branding. I specialize in lifestyle portraits, visual documentaries, and fine art photography.

Content Producer

BLACK-LINK (BLINK)

2013-9 - Present · 13 yrs 1 mo

New York, United States

Multimedia production: tell a compelling, impactful story using video and audio, capturing and produce video segments, photography slideshows, and multimedia content for deadline; utilize creative production techniques such as lighting, graphics and new forms of media, HD video/non-linear editing and integration; scripting and delivery of voice-overs (VO/SOT), work with reporters, producers, and other photojournalists

Resident Assistant

Youth Consultation Service (YCS)

2022-5 - Present · 4 yrs 5 mos

New Jersey, United States

At YCS, I work directly with youth in residential therapeutic care, implementing trauma-informed approaches, managing behavioral challenges, and collaborating with treatment teams to help residents progress toward emotional and developmental goals.

Executive Director / Founder

Proud Poppas United

2007-12 - Present · 18 yrs 10 mos

Proud Poppas United, a community based group designed to strengthen the bonds between fathers & their children. We aim to encourage a tradition of fatherhship and family, increasing the number of active fathers in our community. For comments, questions, and to find out what you can do to contribute to this cause, please feel free to send us an email to: info@proudpoppasunited.com

Staff Photojournalist

MetroSTL

2019-11 - 2023-8 · 3 yrs 10 mos

St. Louis City County, Missouri, United States

Shoot assigned news and sports stories in a creative, clear and accurate manner. Set up lighting and audio as situation dictates. Compose, set up, capturing and produce video shots, photography slideshows, and multimedia content that is visually appealing and meaningful on deadline. Maintain assigned equipment in satisfactory working order. Uphold journalistic, ethical and professional standards consistent with company policies and values.

Freelance Photographer

NJ Advance Media

2022-8 - 2022-12 · 5 mos

New Jersey, United States

Teaching Artist

Reel Works

2019-3 - 2019-7 · 5 mos

Brooklyn, New York

Teaching Flim and Documentary In-School Workshops in various public middle schools, high schools, and community colleges in the New York Tri-State area. Planning and facilitating activities. Creating age-appropriate lesson plans. Establishing positive learning environments. Implementing effective classroom management skills. Collaborating and communicating with supervisory staff and team members. Producing reports of student progress and participation including daily attendance, incident reports.

Freelance Photographer

Community Newspaper Group

2014-2 - 2015-11 · 1 yr 10 mos

Brooklyn, NY

Photojournalist

Youth Divisional Aide 3 / Mental Hygiene Therapist Aide

NYS Office of Children and Family Services

2011-8 - 2014-8 · 3 yrs 1 mo

Greater New York City Area

Modeling, teaching and mentoring behavioral standards for residents, while encouraging self-improvement. Developed and Building relationships while implementing critical thinking and crisis intervention. Provided direct services, treatment, rehabilitation, and support to individuals diagnosed with mental illness. Facilitated day to day scheduled program, recreation activities, scheduling of educational & creative workshops. Assisted in the health and safety of patients and staff in emergency situations. Generated and Presenting Weekly Program Evaluations on youth progress and development.