Translation — Dawit is a visual artist working at the intersection of film and photography.
About
Born in Ethiopia, raised in America, and always out of place, this profession feels like as much of a puzzle to him as it does to his family.
Dawit is currently based in between New York and Addis Ababa.
Contact the studio directly to access Dawit's photography portfolio.
Dawit often scrolls through comments for a little ego boost.
Let Dawit and his team bring your next project to life. Here’s how we can support you.
Dawit has a sharp sense for visual storytelling,most likely due to almost losing his eyesight as a kid. Services include:
From capturing a woman fleeing terror to striking portraits of celebrities and serene shots of clouds. Services include:
Sometimes it’s not you—it’s the idea. Dawit helps fix that, and sometimes, he helps fix you too. Services include:
The final step before the world sees your work, don’t risk regret. Partner with Dawit’s post studio, ABABA. Services include:
Don’t find what you are looking for? Contact Me.
For those who avoid buttons like the plague, here are some other ways to reach Dawit.
Represented by Caviar
West Coast Rep — Red Rep
Mid West Rep — Rowley Samuel
East Coast Rep — Uncle Lefty
Represented by Caviar
— Managing EP | Sorcha Shepherd
— EP | Nisha Mullea
For photo and image licensing inquiries — studio@dawit.co
Only available for New York & Addis Ababa clients — studio@dawit.co
Ababa Studios, a full-service post production studio catered towards social first content.
— Executive Producer | Amen Adane
We’re not sure if these are frequently asked questions or just the ones Dawit wishes people would ask—but here we are.
What does your workflow look like?
01
My workflow is deeply influenced by the teachings of the incredible illustrator Cherilyn Colbert, whom I had the privilege of calling my professor at ODU. It’s a consistent approach I apply to every medium I work in, and while the process itself is simple, the challenge lies in maintaining the discipline to follow it. The process is both structured and adaptable, capable of supporting any creative project. Some steps might take two days, others two years—it all depends on the schedule and the instinct that tells you when it’s truly complete. For the record, you always know when it’s done. If you’re left unfulfilled, it’s usually because you either stopped too soon or kept going past the point of completion.
What is your philosophy when it comes to your work?
02
I believe an artist’s role is to tell human stories, not to judge them. Regardless of my personal views, it’s my responsibility as an artist to leave those beliefs at the studio door and see the world through an impartial lens. Who am I to say you’re wrong? And more importantly, who am I to say you’re right?
What are your thoughts on the future?
03
I believe the industry is evolving toward its true purpose—telling authentic human stories. My hope is to contribute to that evolution and help it fully realize its potential.
What are your thoughts on editing?
04
Most of today’s celebrated directors owe their shine to their editors. Editors are the unsung heroes, the last line of defense against mediocrity. Without their skill, emotional depth, and stoic dedication, this industry would’ve collapsed long ago. I began my career as an editor and will likely finish it the same way. Editing taught me how to be an efficient director and remains my way of helping others become better filmmakers.
What scares you the most?
05
Not being able to fulfill my duties.
Translation — Dawit is a visual artist working at the intersection of film and photography.
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