By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
All Photos courtesy of Just Toby
Toby – also known as Just Toby –is an Atlanta-based photographer who has captured the essence of drag for ten years In Atlanta and around the world. Right now, you can see a collection of his work that celebrates ten years of capturing local and legendary queens and shaping queer history. We got to talk to Toby about his work, how it all began, what stands out, and what is coming up for the artist and master of drag photography.
Toby, congratulations on the 10-year anniversary! How does it feel to have made it this far? How has the journey been?
Thank you so much. To be honest, the past ten years have flown by, and only recently have I taken a step back to realize just how much I’ve accomplished. It shows just how busy I’ve been. It’s been an incredible ride, especially with how much the drag scene has evolved. Being a part of that cultural shift has been truly humbling.
I got to know you just as you were starting out. Looking back, what are some of the biggest lessons that you have learned?
Over these ten years, I’ve learned that staying true to your art and yourself is crucial despite the many forces that can try to steer you off course. One thing I’ve come to believe strongly is the importance of keeping your close friends close. They are the ones who will uplift you, support you, and stand by you through thick and thin.
Tell us about some of the most significant moments throughout your career.
There have been so many great moments. One that stands out is when Mariah (Paris Balenciaga, ed.) encouraged me to pursue photography while still in the corporate world. I vividly remember the day she convinced me to take that leap, and I’m so thankful for it. Another unforgettable highlight was the day RuPaul’s Drag Race followed me on Instagram. It sounds silly, but having your favorite show acknowledge your work and tell you that you’re excelling in the industry is truly one of my proudest moments.
… and some of the worst? You don’t have to name names…
To be politically correct and play it safe, I’d say you’re the worst—but I’m just kidding! In general, though, the worst is when a young entertainer gets a taste of fame, and their attitude completely changes. It’s so important to stay humble.
Catch JUST TOBY JUST TEN at Out Front Theatre until the end of September.
Tell us about your show at Out Front’s Queer Spaces. How did that come about?
This opportunity came from a conversation with Paul from Out Front Theater. He proposed the idea of showcasing local artists for a period of time while their work is displayed in the theater, which I thought was fantastic. When he asked if I was interested, I immediately said yes—I had been looking for a venue for this year, and it just fell into my lap. I’m so grateful to have my work showcased throughout the year. Raising awareness of art and charity through this project is incredible, and the blend of my work with Out Front Theater’s performances is a wonderful mix. Oh! And to be clear, this is my first solo show, and it’s an honor that I was able to have this space!
How did you select the pieces for the show? They must be some pretty significant milestones or your favorite photographs or artists?
The selection process for my pieces was clear in my mind. I wanted to represent the people who brought me to where I am today—those who believed in something I didn’t believe in at the beginning. It’s deeply emotional to present this to you, and like the tip of the iceberg, there is a lot behind my success. They know who they are
What’s next for you? Are any big projects coming up?
At the moment, I have another show exhibiting my work at the mayor’s office here in Atlanta; I also have a display outside the Civil Rights Museum, and I am also working on hosting/promoting a pageant, a preliminary for Entertainer of The Year, which will be on September 23. I am also working on projects that I have never revealed. One project I’m excited about is to have a roast for my 10-year anniversary, which I hope y’all can sponsor HAHAHA.
Finally, tell us how we can watch this show and follow along your journey on socials.
The show will be displayed until the end of September. You can purchase any of the works, or you can always donate to Out Front Theater so we can keep art alive. You can find my work mostly on Instagram (@justtobyMe) or my personal Facebook, with my personal accounts being the most frequently updated. I’m finally working on my website, and I hope it will soon become the central hub for connecting with me and exploring my art.
Anything else you’d like to add?
My journey is far from over. For years, I’ve struggled with insecurities about releasing some of my work, but now I’m finally at a point where I’m ready to share it. As Brigitte Bidet once said, “You have iconic photos that the world would die to see.”