How did you get started in commercial photography?

I am almost entirely self-taught and I had a very unorthodox path – that is for sure. I started my career as an Art Director at a few different advertising agencies and happened to have a knack for Photoshop. It was during this time where I learned my love for image making and creation. I began shooting very small jobs and taking any opportunity to learn, as well as developing work as a retoucher creating composites and "styles" for various other photographers. Through this I learned an enormous amount about how to create impactful and beautiful visuals, as well as what sells in the advertising market. Regardless, my transition from art director to photographer was a gradual one. I started shooting very small jobs where you either shot it yourself or had to use stock. Over time I started building a portfolio of these images as well as personal projects to get my first book together.

Describe a production from last year you are really proud of.

When getting some notes together for this interview, I am overwhelmed at how blessed we have been this last year. We have had the opportunity to shoot campaigns for Lowe's Home Improvement, Kimberly Clark, KIA Motorsports, Guinness, Glock, Regions Bank, Georgia Power, Windstream, Christophe Harbour St Kitts, Grady Hospital, and Callaway Gardens just to name a few. We put our heart and soul in each production, and therefore feel like the group of work as a whole is what I am most proud of.

What are some of the big trends you see coming in the next 5-10 years in the production industry?

Obviously in the digital age the lines between still and video are going to be blurred. You as a photographer must be able to envision and shoot both motion as well as still. Beyond that I feel like the industry is getting back to a less processed look. My clients want to see images with a beautiful color palate and lit in a natural way, even if it is a composited image to begin with. I think the days of over lighting, gritty and super high-passed images are coming to an end.

What advice can you give to talent when they're on set?

Relax and listen. Typically I am looking for very natural movements and communication between the talent and myself is critical to get images that don’t look over-posed

Unrelated to work, what are you passionate about?

Well my family of course is first. My wife April and I welcomed our daughter Samantha into the world a month ago so I am spending all of my free time at home with them. I am looking forward to being able to travel to various shoots together when she gets a little older. Outside of family if you ask anyone that knows me they will tell you I am a certified car nut. You can always find me at a car show or race at Road Atlanta on the weekends.

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Published January, 2013.