First off, you were in an accident recently. Can you tell us how it changed you?
The accident was significant on me because getting hit by a car & hitting a tree at 70+ mph is enough to kill most. I appreciate being alive, and making a comeback to some semblance of normalcy.
Can you tell us about your artistic background and how you got started in your chosen medium?
My grandfather was a hobbyist photographer & camera collector. He gave me cameras from an early age, and some significant cameras.
As a young art school student I didn’t expect to shoot weddings, and families. As a photographer, I ended up finding genuine people and sharing of emotions as one of the most rich subjects available, and no better place to find such subjects than at weddings.
What themes or concepts inspire your work?
Love people, and how faces are akin to landscapes, dramatized by light, lens work, emotions, etc. Architecture & graphic design also lend some paradigmatic understandings, as do drawing & painting.
Can you walk us through your creative process, from idea to finished piece?
Just shoot. Try to problem solve and creatively find new solutions to lighting, situations, etc. I work hard in post production as well to find the right balance in look.
Are there any particular artists or art movements that have influenced your work?
Dianne Arbus, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Aaron Siskind, etc. etc, Arbus books had real estate on our coffee table, but I am not feeling inspired by her work, for my style. But must have an effect on me.
Can you describe a particularly challenging project you've worked on, and how you overcame any obstacles?
Photographing the CEO of William Morris Endeavor. Had an equipment failure with my main professional camera, so turned to my Sigma pocket camera. Planning for failure by redundancy. Being ready by having backup.
How has your art evolved over time, and where do you see it going in the future?
I still want to shoot faces & emotions, when I see them, like I dreamed of in my first photoshoot in art school, but was too afraid to execute. Still try.
Can you speak to any recurring motifs or symbols that appear in your work?
Faces. People. Emotions. Lines, Forms, Type, Textures, etc.
How do you balance maintaining your own artistic vision with client demands or project constraints?
Still not sure ;) More seriously, client work means they decide. I can give my input, but they are the drivers. Hopefully, people hire me for my vision & skills, and therefore trust me, my vision, and methodology.
What do you hope viewers take away from experiencing your art?
Unique Artistic expression along with technical excellence, combined with unique circumstances of emotions, exchanges, etc.
Can you share any upcoming projects or exhibitions that you're excited about?
Being alive is great, and getting back to meaningful work.
What was your favorite part about The CAVE?
Knowing the people behind it, the service & desire to ensure all is great
