4 Days of Self Portraits | Years of Frustration | October 23, 24, 25, & 27
I embarked on a personal & creative journey that got cut short by COVID. I’ll pick it back up in 2024.
It’s been a truly fantastic year for me as a photographer, both professionally and creatively. I have a lifetime more to learn, but in year 10 of this journey, I think somewhere in the second half of the year, my work took a leap. I feel it. A new confidence and competence.
But this is exactly what led to a lot of deep frustration in the second half of the year as well. During my 6 weeks of rehab from elbow surgery, I took some time, did some research and upgraded some equipment as well as purchased some gear to begin a journey into filmmaking and videography. But… I couldn’t find people to experiment with! It’s extremely frustrating to be putting all of this love and energy into the world, knowing you have at the very least, some level of competence, yet can’t get people to commit to creating together. I love Miami for many reasons, but this city does not have the creative hustle that I felt and experienced before I moved here, back in NYC.
It’s also challenging, as I grow my business, to find the balance between collaboration and commerce. Potential clients rarely understand this. But, it’s like… some of this is for passion, and growth, and learning, and trying new things. Some of this is for the incredible and beautiful and powerful energies of true collaboration; when two or more people bring equal parts of their creative energy to create something together. This can surely happen and oftentimes does with my clients, but, I must admit, I’m having difficulty finding creative collaborators who aren’t just trying to get free photos… You know the type… they want me to do it all. Plan, moodboard, find hair and makeup people who want to work for free, direct the shoot, edit the photos…. THATS MY JOB. YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR THAT. If you want to make cool shit with me, you’ve got to bring more to the table than just a pretty face. Bring the energy! Work WITH me. I don’t work for you in these circumstances. When it feels like work, it isn’t a creative collaboration, its my job. /endrant
I hate selfies. I don’t like to be in photos all that much. I’m insecure about my teeth. There’s a million reasons I would rather be behind the camera. But this has also been a year of personal growth for me. I lost about 50 lbs this year. I enacted an exercise regimen, that I didn’t miss a day from Jan 1 through my surgery on July 11. I changed my work/sleep habits to add strict discipline to my waking and sleeping hours. And I attended a handful of conscious events that made me realize I’m not the only weirdo in the world. That if I took the time to seek out approving people, I would find the welcoming approval I seek.
So, between this frustration in finding true creative collaborators and then having the YouTube algorithm fed me THIS video, from the extremely talented and equally thoughtful photographer, Taylor Pendleton, I knew I had to give it a shot. If there’s nobody to collab with... collab with yourself! I feel like this project has limitless potential. It also brought to my attention some of these aforementioned insecurities.
Unfortunately, after only 4 out of 5 days sticking to the commitment of shooting self portraits every day, and imagining how this would evolve both my relationship with myself and my technical skills as a photographer…. I got COVID again. I lost two weeks, then got insanely busy with client work, and therefore only have 4 short basic self-portrait sessions to share with you all.
One of my goals for 2024 is to do more of this, and gain the self-confidence and technical skills that come as a result of working on this project.
Without further ado… ME! 🙈 (I need to smile more. I know.)
Day 2
Day 3 (click images to enlarge)
Day 4 (click images to enlarge)
Kwadwo in Color
We started writing this story in 2013, and only finished today.
Here’s another one of those times. You know… when you go back through a decade or more of images, with a decade older eyes, experience, editing prowess, style…
… and create something you never saw before. By ‘saw,’ I mean when I looked at these images back in 2013, I saw 2 or 3, and considered them individual compositions. Yet, looking at the photoset in Lightroom earlier this week. I saw a story I hadn’t noticed before, and went right to work.
I keep thinking about where to put these images, and wind up never showing them to anyone. I’m hoping this ends that trend. I really need to dive into the archives, delete wasteful 1s and 0s, and properly treat images that may have been overlooked over the years.
So, I wasn’t even done with the set, and I HAD to hit up Kwadwo.
Gotta say…. that felt good. Glad to have made this incredible set of images with you, old friend. This dude was always working on something good for the world. We shot an ill-fated but wonderful intentioned campaign for an clothing idea, proceeds of which would go to anti-bullying organizations, and now he’s traveling the world spreading positivity and good vibes. You can check out some of his work here.
OK. Those were words. These are images.
Sasha Atlas | Press Kit & Promotional Photos | May 9, 2023
Promotional and press kit images for DJ/producer/vocalist Sasha Atlas.
Working with Sasha Atlas on our recent studio photo shoot was a refreshing experience. Sasha, a DJ, producer, and singer, has a story that's particularly resonant for me. We both left stable corporate careers to chase after our artistic dreams. Her presence on social media, with her Instagram and her website, is a window into her evolving career in music.
Our paths crossed again at the Art With Me festival in December 2023, seven months after our initial collaboration. Catching up and exchanging stories about our progress since then was a real pleasure. It's impressive to see how much Sasha has achieved in such a short period.
The aim of our photo shoot was to create images that would serve as promotional and press material, capturing the essence of her as an artist. Sasha's energy in front of the camera was undeniable, making each image a truthful representation of her artistry and character.
Helping artists like Sasha visually narrate their career journey is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. I'm looking forward to seeing where her talent and determination take her in the music industry. Our future collaborations, I anticipate, will continue to showcase her growth and success.
Sasha's journey is a reminder of the rewards that come with pursuing one's passions. Documenting these pivotal moments in her career is an opportunity I value greatly. Keep an eye out for more from Sasha Atlas – there's much more to come from this talented artist.
30 Minutes with Vanjee | May 8, 2023
A few moments to chill with my friend Vanjee.
You might not think it, but I’m pretty insecure. I know I work my ass off. I know my work is good. I know I treat people with kindness and respect. But can’t say I move through the world with that confidence. That’s why it completely took me by surprise when Vanjee extended his friendship to me completely selflessly.
I knew him and his brother Nadav from shooting Space Ibiza NY. I was closer with Nadav. To be honest, we weren’t more than cordial acquaintances, but two days before I was making the move to Miami, I bumped into Nadav on the streets of Manhattan. We had a brief chat, and he mentioned that his brother was down here in Miami very often, and had a good rep in the city. He’d pass along my number/info and maybe I’d hear from him. That was it. September 2015. I moved to Miami at in October and didn’t think again about that encounter.
That December, I received a call from a number I didn’t have in my phone. “Hi Stuart. Its Vanjee. I’m playing in Miami very soon, and you should come out with me. I’ll take you around and introduce you to everyone.” That’s exactly what happened. I didn’t know anyone down here, and hadn’t gone out anywhere yet. In one night, Vanjee took me to Story for Music On, Treehouse, and then Club Space. At each spot he took the time to not only introduce me to all the right people, but to also talk me and my work up. Because of that night, I was shooting underground music in the best rooms in Miami within 3 months of that night.
Im not sure that’s exactly how it happened but that’s how I choose to remember it, and because of that generosity, I would take a bullet for Vanjee any day. He’s a true friend, and treats me the way I expect friends to treat one another. I hope I do the same for him.
I’ve had Vanjee in the studio before, but this time was for a quick social pop-in before he caught a flight back north. It’s always great to see him. I still don’t think he loves any of the images we’ve made together, but I do. So, once again, sorry dude… but here they are. Love you.
Posing with @pineapplepey | Peyton Bell | February 12, 2023
Peyton Bell is top notch. Great energy, enthusiasm for creativity, and fearless. Can’t ask for more. I look forward to shooting more with @pineapplepey
It’s always great to find new collaborators. Oftentimes, creative or spontaneous shoots are like dancing. Not only do you need to find a good partner, there needs to be a good rhythm. I met Peyton at the Motorcar Cavalcade, and we set up a simple shoot. We spend Super Bowl Sunday doing what NY Jet’s fans do…. not watch the game. Peyton has truly great creative energy. We had only a simple plan and creative chemistry, and I’d say we nailed the assignment. These are the results. (click image to enlarge)
Spontaneity with Sandy | Sandy Kacura | February 1, 2023
Spur of the moment photo shoots oftentimes result in magic.
I’ve been trying to develop new habits this year. One a month. January was all about sleep. Early to bed. Early to rise. I have come to LOVE the few hours at my desk before the sun rises. Everyone is asleep and I’m hustling. So, when Lee Dahlberg invited me to his home to watch the premiere of Gunther’s Millions at 7PM, I had to think of how to make that work. I’d typically be showering and getting ready for bed at that time. “Why don’t I come over now, we can shoot in your backyard, and then I’ll be there when the festivities start.” “Sure, but I will be preparing for tonight. How about you come by and shoot with Sandy?” “Sure! Be right there.”
We had such a fun time, with no preparation, fueled by he excitement of spontaneity. I truly hope this is the first of many times I get to collaborate with Sandy.
The Macallan | Ambassadors Katie & Goose | January 24, 2023
Assignment: Crisp black & white images of Miami based brand ambassadors for The Macallan.
Result: Success.
I am thrilled to share that I recently had the incredible opportunity to photograph Katie and Goose for The Macallan, as they are the esteemed brand ambassadors of this global legacy brand, based here in Miami. The assignment was to create a series of photographs that embodied simplicity, cleanliness, and captured their unique personalities, all while presenting the images in a striking black and white format. It was an absolute pleasure working with Katie and Goose, as they effortlessly exuded charisma and charm. With careful attention to detail and a keen eye for composition, I believe we truly captured their essence and successfully delivered the desired aesthetic. I couldn't be happier with the outcome of our collaboration - we undeniably nailed it.
Driss | January 19, 2023
A quick portrait session with my friend Driss.
I met Driss at Treehouse many years ago, when the concept of shooting SXM Festival first came up in our conversation. Unfortunately, that opportunity never materialized as I found myself in a dark period the following year. And just when things were starting to look up, COVID happened, putting a halt to all plans and dreams. Throughout those challenging years, I would occasionally run into Driss, and he always remained a good dude, someone I enjoyed interacting with. As 2023 rolled around, a year of renewal and positive energy, I couldn't help but think of Driss. So, I extended an invitation for him to visit the studio for a quick portrait session. The shoot itself lasted no more than 45 minutes, nothing groundbreaking, but it was a pleasant time spent with Driss without the overpowering thump of house and techno music forcing us to yell in each other's ears. It was a simple yet meaningful moment of connection in a year that had been filled with so much hope.
Testing with @bbytwee | Theresa Grant | 1 of 2 | February 17, 2017
Once upon a time, I had the opportunity to photograph @bbytwee
Theresa was incredible, as you can clearly see below. This was shot as part of a test for Ford. The incredibly talented and severely underutilized Michell Lelia did the makeup/hair. You’ve gotta check out Theresa’s stuff. She’s out there kicking ass, it seems. There are so many dope shots here that I had to split this session in to two posts. Stay tuned for part II.
Lavishness with Liv | Liv Jaeger | July 12, 2016
I got to style and photograph the absolutely incredible Liv Jaeger. Here’s what happened:
I didn’t know Liv, but my good friend Andrew Gifford had the idea and made the introduction so we could collaborate. I did all the styling on this one, with a combination of clothing from Adidas, Calvin Klein, and Marciano. Michelle Lelia did the makeup. Sometimes, when editing images, its so difficult to decide which color palate to go with. I couldn’t pick which blue I liked better. You’ll see here that I couldn’t choose on many of these wonderful images of Liv. Posting this reminds me that I need to reach out to Andrew. He’s always been a fan and supporter of my work. Since I moved here to Miami, I just don’t talk with him as much as I should. (Those are really Liv’s eyes. These images are absolutely retouched, but the eyes are all her.)
Why So Serious, Jeffrey? | Jeffrey Hayzlett | August 18, 2015
A brief photoshoot in Financial District, Manhattan, with Jeffrey Hayzlett.
I met Jeffrey Hayzlett at a networking event back in the early days of Twitter & businesses trepidatiously dipping their feet into unknown waters. He was the first Fortune 500 CMO to invest company time and money into social marketing at such a high level. You might recognize him from his myriad television appearances. Over the years, Jeffrey has been a friend and truly magnanimous supporter of my work and career path. From my old fledgling podcast, to my advertising career, to my life as a professional photographer, Jeffrey has always been supportive, to say the least. I can’t believe I’m sharing this, but here is the first on-location podcast interview I ever did, with Jeffrey and my good friend and ex-cohost, Ohdoctah. Here are small handful of images we briefly shot, back in 2015 for his upcoming book release. I look forward to more great images and projects with Jeffrey.
Candice | Candice Kilpatrick | February 8, 2015
A quick photoshoot with Candice Kilpatrick from February, 2025.
We didn’t shoot much, but these few images, edited three ways each, are pretty damn cool,
