In traveling the world or working locally, I have continuously focused on distinct groups of people sharing pursuits, passions and lifestyles. And while a group lends a framework of identity, I am always drawn to the individuals who express themselves uniquely, providing a balance between One and Everyone.
My current desire is to push environmental portraiture in another direction, using symbolic elements and scenarios to blend realism with abstractionism. This may include costumed performances, exaggeration of natural elements and combined architectural details to convey a state of thinking and feeling rather than a specific place and time.

Production-wise, my shoots tend to be simple. It's usually just me and the model (once in a while I will have an assistant) with some lighting gear (two lights max, often just one light or a reflector). I tend to work in outdoor and public places… this can be a rural setting or in the middle of the city, as well as historical places or locations with interesting architecture. Some shoots may occur indoors, but likely again to be a public place. Some of my shoots may involve specific clothing or costumes; all of them are fully clothed. Safety is always a priority.

I'm also very easy going with models: nothing too stressful or demanding. I take care to explain the ideas I have and to see if anything is too challenging or awkward - it's important for everyone to be relaxed and comfortable. From there, it's all about expediting the shoot as efficiently as possible and, hopefully, having some fun at the same time.

Currently my inspiration for this work is personal - more fine art than commercial or editorial. I've had numerous opportunities to pursue purely commercial photography, and while I respect the preferences of those who are commercial photographers, it's not the path for me. I seem to relate much better to the idea that a photograph can be like a painting, reflecting my inner thoughts and feelings as they flow in and out of the world at large. My hope is to encourage translations of experiences involving reality and interpretation, both in front of and behind the camera, and give them a visual voice.

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