About Me:

Dwayne Banks Jr. is a visual storyteller with a passion for “capturing the decisive moment” and bringing fresh perspectives to every project.

Dwayne began his photography journey at Illinois State University in 2018. After graduating in 2022, he continued working with his alma mater as a freelance photographer for the marketing department and athletics, covering a wide range of events, including games, media days, and university-sponsored activities.

In 2024, Dwayne expanded his experience as a photo intern for the Normal CornBelters, an independent baseball league. There, he photographed game days, community events, stadium life, and fan interactions, capturing both the energy of the sport and the spirit of the community.

Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Journalism at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dwayne works with Fighting Illini Athletics as a student photography intern and digital content creator for the Fighting Illini Men’s Hockey Team. He has also contributed to The Daily Illini and The Illio, the student newspaper and yearbook for Illini Media Company. His photography goes beyond simply documenting events—it's about telling stories and capturing the moments that often go unnoticed.

Outside of photography, Dwayne enjoys connecting with new people and learning from their stories. Through his work, he aims to reflect the moments that matter most, offering a window into your world through his lens.