It’s been a few months, time spent writing, traveling and taking a lot of pictures. Time wondering if moving forward with this blog was worth the time. In reality, the people who visit and subscribe to the blog are the ones who are going to help me decide on whether or not it’s time to call it a decade. So here I am asking ever so humbly for reach out and comment. Your thoughts and reactions are essential to the continuation of this blog. Until I have my website up and running, this is how I’ll be sharing my work. So please, like, share, and above all, comment.
Tag: Communication
Reaching Out.
As of late, I’ve been doing my best to reach out to long-time friends and loved ones. With the advent of social media, many of us, myself included, have overlooked the importance and joy of hearing a friend’s voice over the telephone or opening a handwritten note or card from someone you once shared frequent exchanges with. Just imagine if one of your hundreds of friends on Facebook ever got a call from you. Don’t worry. You’ll be struck by lightning while accepting your lottery win before that ever happens.
No matter how much time has passed, there will always be a place in our hearts for friends, family and loved ones — sharing memories and getting updates on their current or recent doings. In contrast, exploring a new way to see one another. Although, those first words, “Hey …, this is …” might take a little courage. There is almost always a reward on the other end of the line.
Photographic Minimalism
When thinking of photography and whatever approach I might decide to take in the near future. Much like life itself, I can’t help but think of minimalism. What that actually means? I’m not sure, but living out of a suitcase over the past months with a single camera body and a 50 millimeter lens has been difficult yet educating. Moving to Arlington, I’ve found a renewed interest in photography and documenting my new surroundings. With my newfound interest has come a desire to approach each picture with a new sense of purpose and focus. Asking myself, what attracted me to this image and what message, if any, do I wish to convey? As much as I’ve alway been to telephone lines and cell phone towers. I can’t help but think, with all these connections and gigabytes, we seem to be communicating less. Sure, we talk a lot. But, are we listening?
Communication and the Lost Art of Listening
Everybody has a story to tell. Rich or poor. Young or old. Black or White. We all come from diverse backgrounds and have lived different lives. Yes, we’re all related to this earth and one another to a certain degree and share a common bond, but in so many other ways, we are unique. As I get older, I’ve tried to become less of a talker and more of a listener. Though it’s taken a lifetime, I’ve come to understand and embrace that the only time we learn is when we listen. So, after years of talking, I look forward to the hopes I can become a better listener.
Two Friends, A Camera and A Bottle of Wine.
I really wish more of my little studio sessions were as laid back and effortless as my day with Ruthie. Though this was essentially two friends getting together and just chilling out on a less than busy day. It allowed me some time to play around with my lights and take my camera for a walk. 
As the day quickly passed, we shared stories, listened to music, drank wine and smoked cigars. There came a point where she looked so relaxed and comfortable. A blissful moment that was shortly interrupted when she raised her head and told me how much she hated having her picture taken. It was a strange moment, considering how incredibly relaxed and natural she looked. 
The simple truth of the matter is she trusted me. She felt comfortable enough around me to allow herself to relax and feel beautiful. I was pretty humbled, to say the very least. You know, I’ve always loved taking more personal pictures of friends I’ve made along the way. Making new friends through the pictures I’ve taken seems even more important.
Reach Out. I’ll Be There.
I’ve been going out a lot more frequently lately. The warm weather and the night air make me want to do anything but sit at home watching TV or sitting on the computer. As you’ve seen in recent posts. I’ve been going out to see a lot of live music. Every now and then I’ll be at a show or a bar when a complete stranger will add “That photographer guy.” or “You’re the dude who does that blog.” I’m really happy to know my work is getting out there and the positive response has been overwhelming. However, I’d love to get some feedback here. So don’t be afraid to reach out and say hello. 
Third Time’s the Charm.
I finally got it right. After three years and three sessions I finally captured Lana just as i see her. Though our previous sessions gave us some memorable shots. (One that actually made it to the walls of SOHO Photo gallery) I never felt I quite captured the beauty and energy I saw in her. Lana stopped by late this morning and gave me the boost of energy and creativity that I desperately needed after a day/night of what might have equaled just a bit too much drinking. I hadn’t seen Lana in almost a year to the day. The was something different about her. She seemed more confident, mature, even radiant. We caught up on one another’s adventures and experiences and connected the dots on the mutual friends we shared. It was great seeing her. I hope it’s not another year before we cross paths again. Below are some of my favorites. Breath easy….
Photogeek Blog 
