Louis Rideout, professionally known as Rideout or Call Me Rideout is a self taught Cincinnati photographer by way of Detroit. He is known mostly for his portrait, event, and concert photography. Never one to be pigeonholed, Rideout is also a community and event organizer that co-created last falls’ Cincy Nice Social House, a published recording artist, social media manager, and media personality/event host. After studying Mass Communications at the University of Miami in Oxford, OH Rideout made Cincinnati his permanent home in 2014 and began shooting professionally at the beginning of 2017.
Since beginning his professional journey as a photographer Rideout has found a deep connection with highlighting the joy and talents of the many colorful and often overlooked faces in Cincinnati that often resemble his. “Everyone is beautiful” is the motto that Rideout tries to shoot by and in turn live by. By focusing on moments and shots that make true connections with his subjects he has garnered work from the likes of Cincinnati USA, Planned Parenthood, Saveur Magazine, and most recently his photography from this summers’ Black Lives Matter protests were featured in the music video for “Legendary” by R&B singer Tyrese featuring Cee-Lo.
Always looking to grow and make new connections, Rideout's mission for 2020 was a large-scale art project that would have an impact on his community through social commentary. “I want to live in the best city in the world. If I don’t see it, I’ll make it” Rideout says. While COVID-19 may have slowed his plans he’s no less focused on the mission and intends to make as many people feel seen as he can for the foreseeable future.