Hello, I’m Tim Piper

A Freelance Art Director, Graphic Designer and Photographer with over two decades of experience helping brands tell their stories through impactful visuals. My career has spanned agency leadership, in-house creative direction and running my own studio, where I’ve partnered with businesses ranging from local entrepreneurs to established companies.

With a background in branding, design, and photography — and more recently, 3D modeling — I bring a multidisciplinary approach to every project. Whether it’s shaping a brand identity, crafting marketing materials, capturing striking imagery or creating immersive 3D visuals, my goal is always the same: to deliver creative solutions that resonate and connect.

Clients and collaborators know me for blending strategic thinking with a sharp creative eye, ensuring that every project not only looks good but works hard for the brand behind it.

When I’m not designing or behind a camera, I’m usually exploring new creative tools, experimenting with Cinema 4D, or finding inspiration in the details around me.

Branding / Logo Development
95%
Graphic Design
85%
Photography
90%
Front End Web Design
40%
Illustrator
60%
Cinema 4D
55%
Videography
60%
Social Media Content Creation
82%

My Experience

Art Director / Owner – Sandpiper Studio
2011 – Present

Founded and manage a freelance design and photography studio, serving clients such as Gem Health & Wellness, Superior Lakes Mead and Wine, and Vertical Drop Ski Shop. Oversee creative direction, branding, photography, and marketing deliverables tailored to each client’s needs.

Creative Director – Datadyne Marketing
2018 – 2020

Led creative from concept through execution for a start-up, managing a team of designers and collaborating across departments to build cohesive campaigns and maintain high design standards.

Senior Art Director – PUSH 22
2007 – 2011

Advanced from Graphic Designer to Senior Art Director, managing conceptual design, branding, layouts, photography, and client presentations. Coordinated vendor relations and guided small teams to execute projects effectively.

Creative Director – Red Phone Creative Group
2002 – 2007

Progressed from intern to Creative Director at a Bloomfield Hills agency, leading branding campaigns, websites, print, and broadcast projects. Collaborated with seasoned agency professionals, gaining valuable industry insight.

Professional Photographer – The Camera Chick
2009 – Present

Specialize in commercial, product, portrait, and event photography with a strong eye for detail and expertise in lighting techniques. Provide both photography and videography services for a wide range of projects.

Education

College for Creative Studies – Detroit, MI

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Communication Design 1999 – 2003


Hobbies & Interests

When I’m not behind a camera or working on design projects, I spend much of my time outdoors. I’m passionate about photography in my personal life as well, often combining it with my love for wildlife conservation. Whether I’m out hunting, fishing, or simply observing nature, I find inspiration in the quiet details of the natural world.

My biggest interests, though, are closer to home — my wife, Sandy, and our three dogs. They’re a constant source of joy and balance, reminding me why creativity and hard work matter in the first place.

My Clients

I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of clients — from local entrepreneurs to established regional brands. Past projects include work for National Coney Island, Gem Health & Wellness, Vertical Drop Ski Shop, The Bouncing Doodle, Superior Lakes Mead and Wine, and Make-Cup. Each partnership has been an opportunity to create thoughtful, tailored design and visual solutions that help businesses connect with their audiences and grow.