The Perfect Picture

Anyone can take a picture of something beautiful. But to take a beautiful picture, that takes an eye. Lighting, backdrop, expression, sure they can all be elements to a lovely photo, but what I believe makes the perfect picture: connection. I like to connect with what I'm taking pictures of. Whether it's people, scenery, animals or even a vase, I might take a moment to understand what I'm looking at. If I'm working with people, I talk a bit first and find out who they are and what makes them interesting. Everyone and everything has something to offer in this world, and I see art as a way of expressing that.

A recent shoot I did with someone I met at a club brought to a fun patio location. I considered him a friend, though we had not spent too much time together. I did know he was a fireman and had done prior modeling for a calendar. I was eager to work with him. As we began the shoot, I allowed him to model as he wanted to, directing him very little, and enjoyed seeing what he had to offer. The shots where he chose his pose told his story, and the ones I directed told mine. It's a symbiotic relationship when you're working with photography, and it can be an incredible experience when you truly connect with your subject, in both expressing yourself through the art as well as hoping to produce work the audience will connect with as well.