Training with SUP racer Sam.
Read MoreDo what you love.
Sometimes, my career as a photographer can become sluggish and uninspired. As a freelancer, my work can lack creativity, become repetitive, and cause me to feel complacent. Additionally, my inner critic can be a real jerk sometimes.
I've been in this industry long enough to know that I need to change gears and recharge. I need to do something that's fun, creative, and rewarding. That's when I met another James.
James quit his job a few months ago and started making tacos full-time. I ran into him at a local brewery where he made a killer taco that pepped me right up. Not only was it delicious, but James was also incredibly excited about it. He's proud of his ingredients and the techniques he uses (all the meat is slow-roasted over a coal fire).
After that taco, I asked if I could take some pictures of him. Not for money, not for free food, but because I thought he was a cool guy and I was inspired by his story. I also knew that as a starting business, margins can be slim, and the last thing you have is a marketing budget.
A few days later, we met up and did the shoot at his next pop-up. Right out of the gate, James was in his element. He was focused, excited, energetic, and quick to share his process. We talked about life, work, happiness, and how important balance is. It was a blast taking pictures of him, and I think we got some great shots! He's getting a collection of images to use, and I got some of his electricity to bring into my work. Plus, some damn fine tacos. Win-win! If you’re around San Diego check him out! @j.flamez.bbq
On a side note, it was super cool finding a neon sign at the brewery that said "Do what you love." This shoot was a great reminder of that.
#photographer #business #work #marketing #career #share #creative #food #happiness #creativity
Finding The Light
Shooting in the rain again!
Read More2022 Photography Recap
Another one in the books! Thank you to all the clients, talent and friends I’ve worked with in 2022. Here is a brief recap of the year in photos! Happy New Year and I look forward to forging new experiences in 2023. Cheers!
Still life tips: Shoot practically!
Quick tips about planning a shot and capturing in camera with little post production.
Read MoreConcept to Content
I’m a visual person. When planning a shoot I like to gather images for inspiration, build a mood board and even draw out my thoughts in a storyboard. That planning and foresight came in super handy on this recent shoot.
Food photography in general is tricky because there is a timeline for the food looking fresh. That timeline is accelerated when it comes to frozen things, like popsicles!
This one was all about good prep. From paint testing the background color to finding the right texture of coconut shreds. We had everything ready to go including paper stand-ins for placement. The set was chilled with dry ice, the ice shards and coconut placed, followed by the popsicles. Finally the shredded coconut and roasted pecans to add some life in the final seconds. Shooting took less than 5 mins but the prep took days! Need help planning your next shoot? Let’s chat about it!
Crafting A Story With Photography
Tips on how to tell better stories with your photographs featuring David Keith with Spex Wax.
Read MoreNew Work For Kalon Clothing
Lifestyle Photography Shoot for Kalon Clothing.
Read MoreNew Things!
International photography campaign.
Read MoreVentana Surfboards
Meet Martijn, he's the marine biologist turned woodworking guru at Ventana Surfboards. I got a chance to visit the shop and shoot while he was working on the companies 100th board. His work blew me away. The epic board has over 800 laser cut reclaimed wood scales perfectly fitted to shape the bottom. The deck is no less stunning. Detailed fish constructed from broken skateboards by @upcycledskateart are suspended in epoxy (@ecopoxy.) The collaboration and craftsmanship is nothing less than incredible and well over 50 hours of solid work. Check out the unveiling at the Capitola Wine Festival Sept 8-9 .