[September 25, 2008 ]
How would you describe your style of photography?
Direct, honest and real.
When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?
I was still in college, trying this and that. At first I was interested in business or sports medicine as a career. But my heart just really wasn't in it. I really loved photography, but I was somehow convinced that it wasn't a realistic thing to do for a living. Thankfully, I got over that misconception.
What is the most challenging thing you've encountered while doing a shoot?
Shooting Kobe Bryant at 3:00 am in the morning. I was nervous, but immediately relaxed when we finally met face to face. He's a genuinely nice guy, even in the middle of the night, right after getting off a plane, coming straight from a game! Before meeting him, I was sort of doubting whether or not I was going to be able to direct him with confidence. I mean, how do you tell one of the best basketball players of all time that he's doing something wrong?! But, once we got on set and got started, I just settled in to the task at hand, forgot about Kobe as a celebrity, and saw him as just the subject of the photo. It turned out to be an awesome shoot. I'll never doubt myself again.
When do you know you have "it", the perfect shot, and you can call it a wrap?
I listen to my gut instinct. When I hear it, and it feels right, I back pocket that feeling, and then shoot just a bit more. That way I know I have "it" and the rest is just icing on the cake.
Other than a good eye, what else do you think a good photographer needs to have or needs to know in order to be successful?
Patience! It is easier said than done, I know, but it's critical.
What photographer/artist do you admire most?
James Nachtwey, hands down. His work speaks to me.
Who or what would you love to photograph?
Honestly, I just love shooting people in interesting places. They don't have to be famous, they don't have to be anything. I just love shooting humans in an interesting environment.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Still working and growing. Still loving what I do.
Would you ever trade places with the subject and get on the other side of the lens?
I would rather drop a hammer on my toe! But seriously, I am not comfortable on the other side. I give models and photo subjects a lot of credit and I definitely appreciate how vulnerable they are and that they are trusting me to do a good job, make them look good, get the best shot.
What is your favorite photo that you've taken? Now, describe it to a blind person.
That's easy; any photo that I have ever taken of a loved one. There's something special about taking a picture of someone you love. You are capturing something on film that you feel in your heart and there really aren't words to describe that feeling. It's just amazing.
Digital camera or Polaroid?
Last photo ever: Polaroid.
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