The Journey From Dog Lover to Photographer: A Tribute to D Rock

My name is Derick Roberts, but some call me 'D', or 'BloKc'. I'm a proud Kansas City, Missouri native, lifelong dog lover, and now a professional photographer. My journey into photography started in 2021, initially driven by the desire to capture high-quality images of my beloved American Bullies. Little did I know how deep this new hobby would take me.

 

The world of photography unexpectedly beckoned me further. After my father's passing, I was struck by a profound realization – we didn't have enough photos of him, of our family. That’s when I decided to dive fully into photography. It became more than just taking pictures of my dogs. It was about capturing memories, preserving the essence of moments that could never be relived. To my surprise, photography felt like a calling, something more fulfilling than anything else I've pursued.

 

In homage to my father, I named my photography business after his nickname, 'D Rock'. However, I added my own twist to it, rendering it as 'D RoKc'. This name doesn't just represent me; it represents 'us', our family, and the place we call home.

 

As a newcomer to the world of photography, I started attending local meetups to practice my skills. I even ventured into boudoir photography. Although it felt strange and a bit uncomfortable at first, the experience turned out to be great. Not only did it help me expand my photography skills, but it also led me to meet some incredible people, including my now good friend, Gia Bang.

 

With practice, dedication, and a passion that was ignited by the memory of my father, I have managed to get my work published numerous times. Each publication feels like a little victory, an affirmation that I'm on the right path. Today, I’m not just a dog breeder who won the Kansas City's People’s Choice Awards for Best Dog Breeder, but also a professional photographer who is continuously perfecting his craft.

 

To me, photography is more than just a passion; it's a tool that helps restore confidence and motivate people. It's a medium that allows me to create and share magic. And while I didn't see myself becoming a photographer when I was younger, I can't imagine my life without it now.

 

So, here's to the dream that lives, the legend that lives. Here's to D RoKc. And here's to you, ready to have your legend captured through my lens.