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Press & media

SHUTTER8MEDIA

The vision behind the lens.

Detroit-rooted. Creatively driven. Recognized beyond the city.

Shutter8 Media founder at work

About the founder

THE CREATIVE BEHIND
SHUTTER8

Khaaliq “Shutter” Thomas is a Detroit-based photographer, videographer, and founder of Shutter8 Media. With a creative journey spanning New York, Detroit, and beyond, his work includes music-industry photography, documentary production, fashion, portraits, and live events. From Grammy-week experiences to serving hundreds of clients nationwide and internationally, Thomas continues to build a creative brand rooted in visual storytelling, community, and unforgettable experiences.

Shutter8 portrait
Shutter8 at work
Shutter8 on set

Awards & recognition

RECOGNITION & ACHIEVEMENTS

Honored for creative excellence and dedication to the culture.

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER IN DETROIT

BEST PHOTOGRAPHER IN DETROIT

Moguls of Detroit

Award recipient
BEST VIDEOGRAPHER

BEST VIDEOGRAPHER

Detroit Choice Awards

Nominee

Notable industry experience

BEYOND THE FRAME

From modeling competitions to music, film, and creative production, Shutter8 Media has been a part of impactful projects across the entertainment and visual arts industry.

DETROIT'S NEXT TOP MODEL

DETROIT'S NEXT TOP MODEL

Main Photographer

Served as the main photographer for Detroit's Next Top Model, capturing talent, talent stories, and the show's visual presentation.

PAYROLL ALBUM ARTWORK

PAYROLL ALBUM ARTWORK

Photographer / Visual Creative

Produced album-cover photography for Detroit recording artist Payroll.

DIRECTED BY DIEGO / SHOT SELECTION MEDIA

DIRECTED BY DIEGO / SHOT SELECTION MEDIA

On-Set Shadowing & Creative Learning

Gained valuable experience shadowing music-video director Directed by Diego and the team at Shot Selection Media.

View experience
EXPANDING CREATIVE SERVICES

EXPANDING CREATIVE SERVICES

Photography / Video / Events / Photo Booth

Continuing to grow Shutter8 Media through new creative services and visual storytelling opportunities.

Learn more

National & international experience

DETROIT ROOTS. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE.

Shutter8 Media has traveled with clients for creative work across the United States and internationally, bringing the same creative energy and professional approach to every destination.

ARUBA

ARUBA

International

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

International

CANADA

CANADA

International

MIAMI

MIAMI

United States

CALIFORNIA

CALIFORNIA

United States

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ATLANTA

United States

NEW YORK

NEW YORK

United States

CHICAGO

CHICAGO

United States

Shutter8 Media community work

Community impact

ROOTED IN COMMUNITY

Shutter8 Media is proud to be involved in Detroit community initiatives, including charity events, turkey drives, toy giveaways, photography giveaways, and more. Through creative work and event coverage, we've had the opportunity to work alongside and support organizations and individuals making a difference, including:

  • HOT 107.5
  • iHeartRadio Detroit 97.9
  • 3525
  • DJ BJ
  • Big Dawg Blast
  • Walk Fashion
  • The Source 360
  • Chis Carsyn

LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS

Stay updated with the latest news, projects, and official press releases.

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MEDIA RESOURCES

Download the official press kit, including bio, photos, and media assets.

Press kit coming soon

LET'S TELL A STORY.

For press, features & creative opportunities

For interviews, editorial features, media requests, brand collaborations, and professional inquiries, connect with Shutter8 Media.