21 Questions

Today I’ll do a 21 questions post.

I’ve been thinking about it lately and it would be cool for you reading to get to know me a little better. I’m going to start out with simple questions and then get into the thick of things ranging from all angles. Let’s get started…

Where are you from? I am originally born in Providence, Rhode Island. Yes Rhode Island is the smallest state in the US. No, the state is not surrounded by water haha.
Where did you go to school? I went to North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina. Great School but even greater experiences and people.
What are your other hobbies? I very much enjoy working out and sweating till I am exhausted. I also like to go camping and being outdoors.
What advice would you give those who are interested in photography? I would advise 1) Get a film or Dslr camera. 2) Commit to photography project, for example like a 365 project, etc.
Photoshop or Lightroom for editing? Tough question. They both serve a great role in my editing process.
Dream Job? Would love to have a job where I can be like a creative consultant where I have a large portfolio of my manipulation work that I have done and people come to me to recreate if not create something new.
Name photographers that you look up to? I have a lot of photographers that I look up to but I have to shed light on Rosie Hardy in terms of her manipulation style and also Leanne Boulton who I also admire for her street photography. And last but not least Mathew Irving for his wedding photography. These artists aren't that big in the world but I they have had an impact on my style.
How long have you been doing photography? 4 years total over a span of about 6 or 7 years.
What does street photography mean to you? Street Photography sparks an idea of connection in my mind. When I’m out on the street with my camera I’m looking to make some kind of connection with people, or the city / location.
What does photo manipulation mean to you? Manipulation to me means magic. Manipulation is a key driver in the digital art that I produce so it means a lot to me.
What is your favorite category of photography that you do (Manipulation, Portraits, Weddings, etc)? I think Manipulation is my favorite category even though I love the others a great deal.
How does black and white vs color play into your work? Do you find them to be totally separate beasts—or complementary? I very rarely dabble with black and white. I like color too much right now.
What do you want your viewers to take away from your work? Hopefully I can inspire and create wonder within those who check out what I’ve got going on.
What were some of the difficulties that you encountered when first getting into photography? Finding the passion, motivation, and dedication. It took something like 3 years.
What are your favorite books on photography? What They Don’t Teach You in Photo School… The Creative Fight: Create Your Best Work and Live the Life You Imagine… Digital Photography Complete Course. I always refer back to these books if I am ever stuck with anything.
How do you collaborate with other artists? Outside of the management piece of collaboration I try to get a grip on what style the artist has going for them and adapt to that style and put my own touch on it.
Why do you do photography? I do photography because it’s an amazing outlet to get my ideas out in the world.
How has social media played a role into photography? Social media helps with expanding the audience who can see my work but has played a big role in my creativity. I am a competitive person by nature so when I see the amazingness that is out there on the different social media platforms I try very hard to compete.
What tips would you give yourself if you tried photography all over again? Practice, Practice, Practice everyday.
Do you take photos more for yourself or for others? I used to take photos for myself but now I’m trying to do photography for others. I see photography as a gift that should be shared.
What is one question nobody has ever asked you—that you wish they asked you? Can you see photography not being a part of life? Answer is yes. I believe that creativity and passion for something like art and photography can change or even fade away. One day we as people will too. I think it’s important if you have found your passion no matter what it is to pursue it to the end than you can settle.