Alex Dikeman | 2026 Sawyer J. Boyd Creatives Grant Recipient
Earlier this month, The Sunset Project was honored to announce Alex Dikeman of Alpena, Michigan, as one of nine Sawyer J. Boyd Creatives Grant Recipients for 2026!
Alex is a self-taught photographer interested in storytelling through light, composition, and timing, with a specific focus on macro photography in natural environments.
We recently sat down with Alex to discuss his unique story, why he applied for this year's grant cycle, and what he hopes to use the funding for.
Hey Alex, can you quickly introduce yourself to those who may not know you?
My name is Alex Dikeman. I live in Alpena, MI, and my creative pursuit is photography.
How would you describe your creative interest to someone unfamiliar with it?
Photography is the art of capturing moments in a way that tells a story or expresses an emotion. It goes beyond simply taking pictures by using light, composition, and timing to create meaning. Every photograph is a unique perspective.
What initially inspired your interest in this space?
I was inspired to pursue photography because of my friends and the satisfaction I feel from taking detailed pictures. I am often inspired by my friends and their work, and they encourage me to do my best.
I also very much enjoy being able to zoom in on small details and seeing details that our eyes alone are unable to see, and I often look for opportunities to take macro shots when i go out to take photos.
What's one of your most memorable experiences or milestones from your creative journey?
The most memorable experience from my creative journey was when I first figured out how to properly work my camera. My friend came to my house and showed me how to use it. That was what kicked off my photography journey and is by far my most memorable experience.
How have challenges or setbacks helped shape your creative process?
Working with camera equipment that has many limitations has taught me to stay optimistic and creative. For example, since the max ISO on my camera doesn’t go very high, I have to think about how and when I can actually go out and take pictures if I want them to turn out correctly.
This makes me put more thought and effort into the photos I take, and I think it makes them feel more meaningful.
How do you envision your creative interest evolving over the next year?
Along with the photos I take out in nature, I hope to eventually be able to take portraits for people as well as get into sports photography. As of now those goals are far fetched, but with the help from the Sawyer Boyd creatives Grant I will have fully functional gear and be able to actively pursue those goals.
How do you plan to utilize your grant funding to further your creative interest, journey, and process?
I plan to use my grant funding to purchase a newer mirrorless camera and a lens. Reliable equipment is essential to expanding my creative pursuit and will help me improve the overall quality of my work.
Currently, my equipment has wiring issues and is unreliable, so having something I can trust is essential to furthering my goals.
Do you have any advice to share with someone looking to pursue their own creative interests?
No matter what equipment you have or where you’re starting, don’t let it stop you from chasing your goals. Every mistake or disappointing result is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Growth comes from persistence, so keep trying even when things don’t end up how you pictured them. Whatever your dream is, the most important part is having faith in yourself.
Are there any social media profiles, websites, or other resources where our readers can follow your journey and support your work?
I have an Instagram account @alexdikeman.photography where I share all of the photos I take.
Is there anything else you'd like to share about The Sunset Project, or your experience in the Sawyer J. Boyd Creatives Grant program thus far?
I think that the sunset project is an amazing organization that offers many amazing opportunities. I am very thankful to be receiving funding for my creative interests and I hope that more people who have a creative passion take the time to apply.
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