Creating Legacy Through Vision: The Rise of Tyra Grayson, Known as TGDShotIt

Kivo Daily Contributor

Tyra Grayson, recognized professionally as TGD or TGDShotIt, has built a career that embodies resilience, artistry, and vision. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, she is not only a three-time award-winning graphic designer but also a respected photographer, videographer, production assistant, and creative director. With over eight years of experience, she has captured defining cultural moments and established herself as one of the most dynamic creatives of her generation.

Her journey is not defined solely by her technical skill, but by her ability to transform personal challenges—including struggles with mental health—into creative power. That strength has led to milestones few in her field can claim. From going viral during Super Bowl weekend 2025 to becoming the in-house photographer at Birmingham’s new Coca-Cola Amphitheatre, a Live Nation venue, Grayson has proven her ability to channel both talent and persistence into opportunities that amplify her impact.

Building a Career Through Passion and Persistence

The roots of Tyra Grayson’s artistry trace back to her late grandfather, Art Grayson, a legendary blues musician and inductee of the Alabama Music Hall of Fame. His creative legacy instilled in her the drive to build her own. That motivation has carried her through years of honing her craft, starting with graphic design and expanding into photography, videography, and directing.

She has worked with world-renowned figures and organizations, photographing and producing visuals for artists such as Billie Eilish, Chris Brown, Travis Scott, Cardi B, SZA, Calvin Harris, Lil Nas X, Kevin Hart, and Lizzo, among many others. Her portfolio also includes events such as Coachella, Bonnaroo, Hangout Music Festival, the BET Hip-Hop Awards, and Music Midtown Festival.

Her work is not limited to entertainment; she has also partnered with major brands including NASCAR, SiriusXM, Whataburger, and Hooters.

Her formal education adds depth to her practical experience. A graduate of Full Sail University’s Class of 2021 with a degree in Graphic Design, she also earned certifications in movie trailer editing and film/TV essentials from Film Editing Pro and NYU/Yellowbrick, respectively. These skills strengthen her ability to deliver compelling, professional-grade visuals that resonate with both audiences and clients.

A Viral Moment That Shifted Everything

Every artist experiences turning points, and for Tyra Grayson, one of the most significant came during Super Bowl weekend in February 2025. While covering the event, she captured a video featuring Travis Scott alongside streamers Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed. The footage spread rapidly online, reaching millions of viewers and amplifying her work to a global audience.

That viral success was more than a fleeting internet moment—it was proof of her ability to identify and preserve the kinds of cultural intersections that define an era. For Grayson, the response reaffirmed her mission: to capture images and visuals that will last beyond the moment, shaping memory and history alike.

Creating Legacy Through Vision The Rise of Tyra Grayson, Known as TGDShotIt

Photo Courtesy: Tyra Grayson

A Major Break in Birmingham

Soon after, another career milestone arrived—one that brought her success full circle back to her hometown. Grayson was named the in-house photographer for the Coca-Cola Amphitheatre in Birmingham, Alabama, a newly opened Live Nation venue.

This achievement stands as one of her biggest professional breaks to date. Not only does it cement her role in the national entertainment industry, but it also allows her to contribute directly to Birmingham’s growing cultural landscape. To Grayson, being able to represent her city at such a high-profile venue carries deep personal significance.

More Than a Brand, A Creative Mission

Beyond the titles and accolades, Tyra Grayson’s work is fueled by a philosophy she has made central to her brand:

“Create Like Your Life Depends On It.”

These words serve as both a personal mantra and a mission statement for TGD/TGDShotIt. They reflect the passion and urgency she brings to every project, rooted in the belief that art has the power to preserve truth, inspire change, and connect people across divides.

Through her photography and design, she aims to capture iconic visuals that not only document events but also impact audiences for years to come.

The Road Ahead

As an ambassador for Adobe Express, a member of ForbesBLK, and an affiliate of the Recording Academy (GrammyU), Tyra Grayson continues to expand her influence and community connections. Her career demonstrates what happens when creativity is fused with resilience—when someone decides not to be defined by challenges but to use them as fuel.

Her story is still unfolding, but the milestones she has already reached—going viral at the Super Bowl, partnering with global brands, and securing her role at Birmingham’s newest Live Nation venue—make clear that her trajectory is only rising.

With every image captured and every project produced, Grayson is not just documenting culture; she is shaping it. She wants the world to remember her not only as a creative but as a visionary who turned obstacles into art and left behind a legacy of iconic moments.