I Said Yes...
I don't photograph weddings.
I've been asked, several times, and offered large amounts of money. I've always said no because weddings are stressful. If you miss a shot, it's gone forever.
I have the highest respect for those who shoot weddings, but I know my limits and know what I'm interested in... Weddings just aren't on that list.
So you can imagine my surprise when my friend Karl asked if I'd photograph his 25th wedding anniversary and renewal at The Carolina Renaissance Festival, and I heard myself enthusiastically saying yes.
The wedding was beautiful, and I'm really loving how the edits on my photos are coming out. Still have a lot more photos to edit, but so far, I'm glad I said yes.
This doesn't change anything though. I still have no interest in shooting weddings, but I'm glad I shot 'this' wedding.
The Bride of Lisa Frank
One of the perks of being married to a Special Effects Makeup Artist is the never-ending stream of creative and unique projects that come my way. Our latest collaboration might just be the most imaginative yet—a photoshoot blending the vibrant, whimsical world of Lisa Frank with the gothic, iconic figure of The Bride of Frankenstein.
When my wife first pitched the idea, it took me all of a second to say, "I'm in!" From there, we dove headfirst into the planning process, envisioning how to bring these two vastly different styles together into a cohesive, eye-popping visual narrative.
Lisa Frank, the queen of neon rainbows, unicorns, and dolphins, built an empire in the 80s and 90s with her bold, cheerful designs that adorned school supplies across America. What many don't know is that Frank's journey began much earlier. Before her famous Trapper Keepers, she experimented with art in her Tucson, Arizona studio, influenced by the vibrant Southwestern colors and Native American patterns. This boldness in color choice became her trademark, forever cementing her place in pop culture.
On the other hand, The Bride of Frankenstein, a character that first appeared in the 1935 film, is a gothic icon with a deep history in Hollywood’s early special effects makeup. The creation of her look, especially that towering hair streaked with white, involved meticulous craftsmanship by makeup legend Jack Pierce. Pierce, a self-taught artist, was known for spending hours perfecting the details of monster makeups, using techniques that would become foundational in the field of special effects. The Bride’s look was groundbreaking, blending elegance with horror, and remains one of the most enduring images of classic Hollywood.
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Bringing these two worlds together required a careful balance. We needed a model who could embody both the dark allure of the Bride and the playful spirit of Lisa Frank. The hair, a critical element, had to combine the Bride’s iconic streaks with Frank’s vibrant palette. And of course, the scene and backdrop had to reflect both the neon dreamscape of Lisa Frank and the eerie, gothic world of Frankenstein.
As the shoot came together, it was clear we had something special on our hands—a celebration of color, creativity, and the fascinating blend of history that each of these icons represents. The final photos were a fusion of styles that, on paper, might seem like an odd match, but in execution, created something truly unique and captivating.
This project was more than just a photoshoot; it was a journey into the minds of two creatives from very different worlds, brought together by the magic of special effects makeup and photography. And, if I may say so, it’s projects like this that make being married to a Special Effects Makeup Artist one of the most rewarding experiences in my creative life.
2024 ProPrints Photo Invitational
One brisk afternoon in early February, as I made my way to the mailbox in Georgia, a peculiar envelope caught my eye amid the usual stack of bills and advertisements. Sealed with wax and bearing the return address of "Pro Prints: The Invitational Competition," it piqued my curiosity. Upon opening it, I found myself invited to participate in a photography competition hosted by ProPrints.
The challenge presented was intriguing: to select a Tarot card and, using our photographic prowess, depict its essence through symbolism and personal interpretation. Though my knowledge of Tarot was modest, the prospect excited me. Tarot had always fascinated me, and while I dabbled in its practice, I remained far from an expert.
Coincidentally, my wife and I had discussed creating our own Tarot deck through photography. Thus, this opportunity seemed serendipitous. As we deliberated over the various cards and their meanings, the card of Strength resonated with me inexplicably. Inspired, I enlisted my wife's expertise as a Special Effects Makeup Artist to transform a model into a lion, embodying the essence of Strength.
With a plan in motion, I arranged for the necessary models and set a date for the shoot. Hours of meticulous preparation followed, with one model enduring hours in the makeup chair and further hours posing under intense lights alongside another.
Though the process involved numerous iterations and adjustments, we persevered until capturing the perfect shot. Upon reviewing the image on my camera, I knew we had achieved something remarkable.
Submitting our creation to ProPrints, we now await the judges' verdict. Yet, regardless of the outcome, the true triumph lies in the collaborative effort that brought our vision to life. Together with my wife and our models, we crafted an image of which I am immensely proud—a piece that will adorn my home as a testament to our collective talent and dedication.
Looking Back
Yesterday, while casually scrolling through Instagram, I stumbled upon a meme that hit me right in the feels. It went something like this:
"Nobody tells you how tough it is to rewire your brain, especially after going through so much crap. Blessings exist, good people exist, a softer life exists. Let it happen."
Those words hit me like a ton of bricks, making me dive deep into my own story. I started reminiscing about the ups and downs, the battles, and the scars I carry. There were moments in my past when I believed chaos was my destiny—a sort of punishment for my unconventional choices. But buried beneath all that, there was a yearning for something different, a silent plea for peace.
So, I decided to chase after peace, and it's been my main gig for the past 12 years or so. Now, I won't lie; I didn't always make the smartest choices on this quest, but the good ones eventually outweighed the bad. Today, I find myself in a much better place. My relationships have transformed, and the chaos that once defined me has become a distant memory.
As a photographer, I've come to view life like a photo album filled with moments—some bright and colorful, others darker and more challenging. I've learned to tell my story through the lens, capturing the resilience and self-discovery that define my journey. Each snapshot is a reminder that, just like in photography, the choices we make shape the narrative, offering the possibility of a story that transcends the shadows of the past.
Through my lens, I've witnessed the quiet beauty that emerges when you let the light of healing touch the darkest corners of your soul. It's like a visual redemption, proving that, yes, blessings are real, and a softer life is within reach. So, I'm letting these extraordinary moments unfold, knowing that the process of rewiring my mind and embracing the beauty of life is an ongoing, ever-evolving art. After all, we're all just figuring this human thing out together.
A Weekend in Orlando
Over the weekend, my wife Leslie had a work opportunity on a film shoot in Orlando, FL. Since it had been several months since our last visit to Orlando, I decided to make it a memorable weekend by joining her and organizing a photoshoot.
Securing suitable accommodation proved to be a bit challenging. The first Airbnb I booked unexpectedly canceled, later relisting the property at a higher cost. Despite this setback, I eventually found a charming townhome in Claremont, FL, and promptly booked it.
With the location sorted, the next decision was choosing the models. Naturally, I opted to collaborate with Maeve, a supportive model and friend I've worked with on numerous occasions. I also extended an invitation to Jade, whom I had previously shot with in December 2022. Additionally, I invited Randal, a fellow photographer who operates under the name Collins Collective. Randal, in turn, brought along two models, Mariah and Sammi, with whom he had collaborated before.
With the cast assembled and the location secured, the stage was set for our photo adventure!
The creative energy unleashed during this single day of shooting was truly astonishing. We kicked off at 10 am on Saturday, and the last shutter click resonated just a few minutes past midnight. Exhausted but proud of our accomplishments, we reflected on the incredible experience and the fantastic photos that resulted.
While there's a substantial amount of editing ahead, here are a few previews from this remarkable weekend.
January in Review
Stepping into 2024, I harbored hopes for a year filled with positivity, good memories, and peaceful intentions. Unfortunately, the year didn't kick off as I had envisioned. In the early days of January, I received some distressing health news, a matter I'm not ready to share publicly, but it has cast a heavy shadow on my thoughts. When a close friend inquired about my well-being, my candid response was a simple "Annoyed!" This drew a laugh, with the remark that only I would react this way to such news. The truth, however, is that the full weight of my health situation has been an ongoing worry, affecting aspects such as finances, work, creative projects, and overall well-being.
Recently, a colleague suggested I looked tired and advised taking some time off to rest and relax. This struck a chord with me, as I had envisioned 2024 to be a year of peace and happy memories, not another year of enduring challenges. Yet, life has its own plans, and we can't always control external events. While we may wish to govern the world around us, inevitabilities catch up with us all. I've decided not to allow these challenges to determine my behavior or choices. Instead, I'm focusing on what I can control—my mental health through meditation, a return to therapy, ensuring quality sleep, and maintaining a balanced diet.
Though I may not have control over external circumstances, I can shape my life in small and meaningful ways. Looking back on January, amidst the worries and fatigue, I find pride in certain accomplishments.
Firstly, in my endeavor to meet new people and engage in creative activities since moving to Atlanta, I attended a Pexels meetup at The 12 Factory. There, I connected with incredible photographers and models, including my cousin Mariah, whom I hadn't seen in years. Her gracious participation as a model resulted in one of my favorite images of the year.
Secondly, Instagram played a surprising yet positive role in introducing me to Kat, a kindred creative spirit. Collaborating on a 52 Frames photo prompt, we created remarkable images, even if my antics during the shoot might have seemed eccentric.
Thirdly, Leslie and I set a goal to embark on more hiking adventures in Georgia in 2024. Despite a less-than-ideal start at Providence State Park, the experience improved once we delved into the back trails, leaving me excited for our future hikes.
Lastly, January brought an invitation to join WESTHAVEN MANAGEMENT in Atlanta—an exciting opportunity to collaborate and network with an incredible group.
While January wasn't without its challenges, and moments of worry and fatigue seeped in, I recognize that allowing worry to consume me is a choice. Gratitude for the positive moments in January fuels my anticipation for more good things in February 2024.
My Unfiltered Selfie Chronicles
Today, I want to take you on a trip down memory lane – back to 2019 when I first dipped my toes into the world of self-portraits. Little did I know, this would blossom into a personal project in 2020, fueled by the unexpected twists and turns of the pandemic that kept me from working with models.
Fast forward, and I've got quite the collection of self-portraits. Some are absolute stunners, while others fall into the "meh" category. But you know what's even more valuable than a perfectly framed shot? The lessons I've learned along the way.
Let's talk experimentation – from playing with lighting and camera settings to diving into different styles and editing techniques. It's been a wild ride, and not only have I mastered the art of striking a pose for myself, but I've also learned how to guide others to do the same. The cherry on top? I've developed a newfound appreciation for my own face.
Now, let's rewind a bit to my childhood. I grew up watching adults dodge cameras like they were on a mission. "I look terrible," they'd exclaim, hands thrown up in defense. Somewhere down the line, I caught the bug. There are entire chapters of my life without a single photographic trace.
Here's the kicker – so many folks out there think they're not picture-worthy. It's a misconception, and it's time to debunk it. Remember the wise words of Gary Vaynerchuk? Every negative thought in your head was planted by someone else. You, my friend, deserve to be in front of the camera, whether it's a spontaneous snapshot or a full-blown professional photoshoot.
If that lingering feeling of looking "terrible" in photos is holding you back, it's time to kick it to the curb. Someone else sowed that seed of doubt, and guess what? They were dead wrong! You're not just photo-worthy; you're a star waiting to be captured.
So, let's celebrate the beauty in every snapshot, embrace our unique selves, and remember – your worth extends far beyond the lens.
Don't forget that one of the best ways you can support me, my creative projects, and my photography is by being a Patreon subscriber. Only Patreons get to see full, uncensored images from my photoshoots. Plus there is behind the scenes video, writing, and even a monthly postcard of my photography. Best part is, it's only $5 a month.
Embracing the Artistic Journey: A Tale of Unveiling Creativity
In the hallowed corridors of my self-reflection, I've never considered myself an artist. Words like thinker and observer found cozy corners in the gallery of my self-identity, but artist? Never. All my life, I watched as others conjured breathtaking works of art, marveling at their innate talent. But I, I believed, didn't have the gift. The talent that effortlessly transformed blank canvases into masterpieces eluded me.
I ventured into the realm of artistic expression a few times, testing the waters. One summer, I enrolled in a community art class, eager to explore this latent aspect of my being. However, the cruel truth of my lack of natural-born talent soon became painfully apparent. It was disheartening to confront the possibility of being subpar at something initially, the grim prospect of creating mediocre art repeatedly until mastery seemed daunting. My perfectionism, a relentless companion, wouldn't allow me to endure such a learning curve.
But then, a revelation dawned on me as I began to capture moments through the lens of an old Canon Rebel I had discovered. I uncovered an innate sense for beauty and a willingness to persevere in my photographic endeavors, even when I was still a novice. Criticism and self-doubt often loomed over me, casting their somber shadows. Nevertheless, day by day, I continued to press that shutter button, crafting my skill with each click. Working with the play of light and the dance of colors, I realized that a glimmer of creativity might indeed reside within me.
Deep down, I had always yearned to draw, a desire that had nestled within me since childhood. However, I lacked the discipline to embark on the arduous journey of learning to sketch, to paint, to master the art of visual storytelling.
But change has now unfurled its enigmatic wings within my life. You see, too many souls spend their existence dwelling in the realm of wishes. They dream of doing something, hoping for the magical moment when their aspirations will materialize. Yet, wishes are but fleeting whispers, evaporating into nothingness. They remain trapped in the realm of thought, unfulfilled.
I may never be the artist I long to be, but that will not deter me. I have resolved to practice relentlessly, to sketch with reckless abandon, and to study the intricate interplay of shadows and light. I will fill countless notebooks and sketchbooks until my well of paper runs dry, and my once-lengthy pencil dwindles into a mere stub.
The crux of the matter is this: I no longer wish; I do. In this newfound journey, I embrace my own subtle creativity, a realm of enigmatic allure and intellectual exploration. I unravel the layers of my artistic identity, one stroke at a time, allowing the intricacies of art to lead me into the depths of my creative potential.
Doubt and Triumph in Photography
Navigating a whirlwind of emotions, I find myself pondering a common quandary: why do so many gifted and genuinely good individuals grapple with doubt regarding the significance of their creative endeavors? Does our art truly resonate with someone's soul? Is it, indeed, beautiful? The haunting story of Vincent Van Gogh, who departed this world convinced of his own failure, echoes in my thoughts. I can't help but wonder how many other creatives share a similar struggle at this very moment—talented souls wrestling with self-doubt, their worth unnoticed.
Today, during my explorations, I stumbled upon a portrait studio unfamiliar to me. Intrigued, I ventured inside to meet its youthful owner—an entrepreneur running a successful franchise, with his work adorning Times Square. While genuinely celebrating his achievements, a question lingers: when will my moment of triumph arrive?
I've shared this tale before, but the roots of my love for photography trace back to high school, where I cherished moments with my father's vintage Canon 35mm film camera. However, my journey into photography remained dormant for years, likely stifled by the expectations of the religious upbringing that guided my early life. The prescribed path was clear: grow up, embark on a mission, return, marry, have kids, and serve the church. Creative pursuits were not championed as enduring skills.
Ten years ago, at the age of 32, I picked up a camera and discovered the enchanting world of photography. From that point on, my journey involved relentless study, practice, and overcoming failures. I delved into understanding light, honed my editing skills, and meticulously crafted a unique style that felt authentically mine. It was a process of self-discovery and artistic definition.
Embracing photography earnestly on Instagram in 2019, I embarked on a mission to create and share meaningful work. Yet, financial success has proven elusive. Securing paying clients and mastering the intricacies of transforming my passion into a thriving business pose ongoing challenges. At 42, I'm acutely aware that the sands of time may have more behind than ahead. The prospect of a perpetual uphill struggle looms, but I'm resolved to face it with dignity and courage.
Despite life's hardships and numerous hurdles, I'm not throwing in the towel. There's a fervent desire for life to swing my way a bit more, for my aspirations to materialize sooner. Yet, my love for photography remains unwavering. I'll persist in molding my creative pursuits into a business that can sustain both myself and my family.
Journeying Through Dark Academia: My Tumblr-Inspired Exploration of Swan House
In November 2013, I embarked on a curious journey by joining the whimsical realm of Tumblr. Little did I know then how profoundly this seemingly frivolous platform would impact my life, enduring through the years to 2023. As I ventured into Tumblr's eclectic tapestry, my attention was consistently ensnared by a particular aesthetic: Dark Academia.
Within the labyrinth of Tumblr, I found myself captivated by images portraying the allure of Dark Academia – be it the enchanting libraries, partially consumed cups of coffee, or the spellbinding creations of art and architecture. Amidst the plethora of geeky GIFs and whimsical memes that populate my Tumblr feed, the profound affection for Dark Academia emerges as a recurring theme in my posts.
This affection naturally transcended the digital realm and permeated my world of photography, leaving an indelible mark on my portfolio. The unmistakable influence of Dark Academia can be readily discerned in my body of work.
Therefore, when the opportunity arose this past weekend to visit Swan House, nestled in Atlanta, Georgia, I eagerly seized it. Despite the interference of my ever-restless ADHD, which initially compelled me to resist leaving the comforts of home, I can unequivocally say that venturing out was a decision well made. The sprawling beauty of Swan House's 33-acre estate left me in awe, and the images I captured during my visit are nothing short of breathtaking.
Remarkably, even after spending nearly four hours exploring the grounds, I had only scratched the surface, having covered a mere quarter of the extensive estate. I eagerly anticipate my return, eager to delve deeper into the remaining acres and gather more photographic treasures.
