Break with Tradition

The phrase "traditional portraits" brings to mind the formal shots in front of either mottled or fake scenic backgrounds, using lighting formulas per an age-old tradition. I don't wear medals and do not need any sort of title. Nor do I wish to be part of such a club. It's fine to learn some lighting formulas and adhere to them to make consistent images, but I am not part of that society.

I believe that each image should be unique to the subjects in front of my camera. Over many years I have experimented played, tested and fought with different ways to bring my subjects into their best light. All of this experimentation has developed my photographic vocabulary. Every new person I work with brings a fresh opportunity to create something very special for and unique to them.

I don't have pre-set, cookie-cutter lighting scenes, nor do I treat clients like cattle to be herded through some type of photo mill. The finished image is heavily influenced by the personality of the sitter. Your photo session will be light-hearted and fun. The more comfortable a person is, the more authentic and personal that image will be.

Vegas Alien Podcast Interview

Hey folks. Just wanted to let you know that the podcast interview I did with Ron Davis and Shawna Rencher is now live.

You can check it out on the Glamour Apprentice web site or download via iTunes.

My thanks again to Ron and Shawna for their interest in sharing my vision and approach with the world. Be sure to bookmark the Glamour Apprentice web site to check out other featured photographers and some great educational content.

New Images

Here are a few recent images of some fantastic models I was privileged to work with.

Patricia

Dejah

Upon Reflection...

I just had a fantastic interview with Ron Davis for a podcast that will be posted soon at http://www.glamourapprentice.com/podcast. I will post the direct link once it's live. I was asked some surprising, interesting and philosophical questions regarding my approach and outlook as an artist and photographer.

I can't get over how much that helped me to reflect and to reach within to illustrate why I do what I do, why I do it how I do, and how I view others' work. I think that's an exercise I will perform myself at regular intervals, or especially when I get frustrated in any way.

I had no problem vocalizing my appreciation for the wide variety of models that I work with. Each one is special and each brings out something new in me. I seek to glorify what makes each of them wonderful to me.

I sincerely appreciate that Ron reached out to me for this podcast and am humbled by the chance to share my philosophy with others.

New Work

Good shoots lately.

Sabrina

Sami

Amourena

How do I like thee...

Tabitha

Wild Kingdom Photo Shoot

No animals were harmed in the making of these images. But one of them creeped me the hell out.

The first night we planned this shoot, Chicago enjoyed the worst tornado warnings in recent history. The model, Gia (Panzer Princess), brought along her cuddly little companion, an iguana named Arson. Nikita stayed away from the reptile but was very curious. We had to keep an eye on her. Amy J was on hand for makeup and she created the kick-ass spines for Gia. By hand.

Before we got too deep into it, we noticed that the online weather reports were severe. Loose debris and Smart Cars were blowing past the windows. We had to call it off and stay away from the windows.

Take II

Gia brought the "big bug" back. Amy J did the make-up and applied the spines with spirit gum. A trying process, but patience and steady hands kept it together.



We got some beautifully artistic but relatively intense shots. A nice balance of softness with edge. I kept the lighting simple, using a soft contrast technique.

No real incident with the crawly creatures. They were laying about two feet apart after the shoot and then the iguana decides it wants to go in the kitchen. Right past Nikita, who was laying down (see picture). Nikita sprung up as the bug scurried past, arcing into a perfect crescent, her tail along the contour of her spine.

The bug kept going and Nikita remained frozen in confusion.

So anyhow, we got some great images, the best of which are posted here.