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)
Finally, Nicole | September 14, 2023
Nicole Gazo finally showed up, we shot some amazing images AND had some really important conversation about the state of fashion, instagram, and modeling.
Nicole and I have been going back and forth for almost a year about shooting. It’s difficult when you cold solicit someone on Instagram, and hope they’ll give you a shot to work together. We’d talked for a while about shooting, and after too many misfires, I kind of gave up. I had a cancellation on a random Thursday, and thought I’d randomly pop in on her. I guess the timing was perfect, because within two hours, she was here at the studio. From a huge suitcase filled with options, this was the look we came up with. The idea was to not over-sexualize, and we had some truly interesting conversation about how young women are conditioned to do that, and how it is negatively affecting both men and women & our interpersonal relationships.
She also needed some classic agency digitals, which I was happy to help her with.
(click images to expand)
Two Days With Heather | September 8 & 9, 2023
I got to spend two days creating beautiful imagery with the legendary Heather Payne!
I met Heather about 10 years ago, and, despite only meeting in person that one time, we’ve kept in touch with an occasional message here and there. You know what they say… “timing is everything.” They also say, “location location location.”
If you put those two things together…. magic can and will happen.
So, we put those two things together, and magic happened.
Heather Payne, Founder and Creative Director of Emerging Heroes, is a renowned former model. She has worked with top designers and appeared in magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
Collaborations and tests never go exactly as planned, and that’s part of the beauty of the process. I like to keep my collaborations rather simple, as I get most of my creative energy from spontaneity on the day of the shoot. Its great to set guidelines, create mood boards, pull wardrobe, etc, but in that moment…. I’m always going to follow my gut, if there’s not a specific deliverable or goal to achieve. We had a plan, and surely followed it, but what you’ll see below is us not worrying about coloring within the lines we created before we started actually shooting.
This was a truly wonderful partnership. Heather is incredibly energetic, organized, and determined. I am very fortunate to know her and to have had the opportunity to create these beautiful images with her. I truly hope this is just the beginning of a long lasting and fruitful creative partnership.
Here are the stunning fruits of our labor. (click images to expand)
Portfolio building with Anja | September 5, 2023
Anja from The Source Models needed some basic studio work for her portfolio, and I needed to get back to work after 2 months of recovery after surgery.
I don’t think I’d mentioned this here….I had surgery on my left arm (elbow) on July 11th of this year. I knew it was coming, so I slowed down, in the weeks before, and cleared my schedule for about two months afterwards. I’m left handed, and edit with a stylus, so, I knew it would be a bit before I was able to get back to work.
It funny… you go from 0% to 80% post-surgery so fast! I was expecting to be out of commission through the end of September, but I got back to life much sooner than expected. So, I reached out to Jeff Fuller of The Source Models to see if he had anyone for me to shoot. He sent me a package to select from, and it was very clear who I wanted to work with. Anja had gorgeous images that I could tell were from a single shoot in South Pointe Park, and her limited portfolio was screaming for some studio work. I also needed to get back to work and stretch my lens and arms after almost three months off.
I must say, working with Anja was a wonderful experience; she even showed up early! We kept the styling simple & classic and I think that was the right move. Here are the completed images from our work together.
A great shoot & experience. I hope to create more with Anja in the future.
(click image to expand)
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.
Round 2 with Luke Alexander | June 2, 2023
Great conversation and powerful imagery with DJ Luke Alexander
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I recently had the pleasure of working again with DJ Luke Alexander for another round of press and promotional photos. This being our second collaboration, there was a distinct sense of ease and familiarity that set the tone for the entire photoshoot.
From the moment Luke stepped into the studio, there was a palpable shift in energy compared to our first session. We were both more relaxed, falling into a comfortable rhythm as we set up for the shoot. It's amazing how much more fluidly things can go when there's an established rapport.
As the shoot progressed, we found ourselves delving into deep conversation. We spoke about the challenges we face as artists, particularly the tug-of-war between commercialism and passion. It's a delicate balance, trying to meet the expectations of the industry while staying true to our creative instincts. Luke and I shared our experiences and the pressures we feel about the expected output of our work. It was enlightening to hear his perspective, mirroring many of my own thoughts and struggles.
The most poignant part of our discussion was about pleasing everyone except ourselves. It's a trap many artists fall into, and hearing Luke articulate these feelings was both validating and sobering. These moments of connection are rare and invaluable – they remind us that beneath the facade of success and creativity, we're all grappling with similar challenges.
The photos from this shoot turned out powerful. There was a raw, authentic energy that came through, undoubtedly fueled by the depth of our conversation and the comfort level we'd reached. Creating images that not only serve a commercial purpose but also capture the essence of an individual is what I strive for. And with Luke, it felt like we achieved that and more.
This photoshoot was more than just another job; it was a memorable experience of connecting with someone who's not just a client but a fellow artist. Luke's trust in me to help shape his public image for the second time was not only an honor but a testament to the relationship we've built. It's these kinds of connections that make my work so fulfilling and remind me why I chose this path.
Looking back, I realize that this shoot with Luke wasn't just about creating images; it was about sharing stories, understanding each other's journey, and finding solace in the shared complexities of our artistic paths. I'm grateful for such experiences – they enrich my work and my perspective as a photographer.
(click images to enlarge)
Creating Magic with Agus Maders | May 19, 2023
A great day of shooting with DJ & model Agus Maders
I had the incredible opportunity to work with Agus Maders, a well-known, rising star DJ and model from Argentina. We came together with a simple goal: to create fashionable and unique images that would not only highlight Agus's style and beauty but also capture her infectious smile.
From the get-go, Agus was an absolute delight. Despite being our first time working together, she brought a kind and spirited energy that made the whole experience feel more like a collaboration between friends than a formal photoshoot. There's something about her that's so genuine and down-to-earth; it's refreshing, especially in someone as popular as she is.
Our theme revolved around fashion, but with a twist. We wanted these photos to scream personality and authenticity. And let me tell you, Agus didn't hold back. Towards the end of our shoot, she suggested we try some things she'd never done before with a photographer. I was honored and excited to dive into this new territory for her.
I'll admit, I was a bit nervous. I had this idea to use a mirrored background, but things didn't go as smoothly as I'd hoped. We tried to rig up this whole setup using mirrored adhesive paper and cardboard boxes, and well, it was more of a challenge than I anticipated. But you know what? It didn't matter. It was all part of the process, and it didn't take away from the shoot's success.
This photoshoot was all about having fun, pushing our creative limits, and, hopefully, giving both of our careers a little boost. Despite the mirrored background not turning out perfectly, the day was filled with laughter, experimentation, and art. Working with Agus was a joy, and the connection we forged through our creativity was something really special.
In the end, the photos turned out great, but more importantly, the experience was unforgettable. It's not every day you get to work with someone as talented and genuine as Agus, and I'm already looking forward to our next creative adventure.
(click images to enlarge)
In the studio with Natalia Roth | May 15, 2023
A long awaited studio photoshoot with DJ Natalia Roth
I’d been trying to get in touch with Natalia for a very long time. It didn’t make much sense that we’d never met. I covered underground music in Miami for half a decade, and she’s a hard working, super talented rising star both in Miami and globally. On a Monday morning at 6am, I went to Club Space to see my friend Dennis Cruz play, and I couldn’t take my eyes off this incredibly well dressed woman hanging out in the DJ booth. After enough staring… I had to tell her that I dug her outfit. I was definitely awkward, but then again, I’m awkward. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I don’t remember the details of how I came to realize it was Natalia, but once I did, we briefly spoke about shooting together. I showed her my work, talked about our mutual friends and acquaintances, and within a month or so, she was here in the studio for a few hours. I think shot over 1000 images that day. I still feel like the set deserves more attention, so I may add to this post some day in the future when I have some time and need some inspiration. For now, here are the completed images from our day together. I hope we get the chance to collaborate again. She oozes style and musical talent. It would surely be an honor and a benefit… for us both!
(click images to enlarge)
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.
У фотостудії з Оксаною | In The Studio With Oksana Butovskaya | April 13, 2023
I got to hang out with my friends Nick and Oksana, and we took turns shooting her in my studio.
Oksana & Nick came over to hang out and to shoot together in the studio. Nick and I took turns shooting Oksana. Here are my images from that day. I never saw his. If he shares the link with men I will post it here. SEO!
Hey Nick! Can I see what you shot & edited?
Guys! We’re long overdue for another session. Let’s go!
(click images to enlarge)
Josephine | @joeelaz | February 23, 2023
I talk too much. We only got to shoot a single look. It’s pretty incredible, but I wish we did more. Perhaps one day in the future.
I talk too much, and I realized it when I met Jojo at Art With Me 2022. We were both passionate about photography, and we quickly got into a discussion about shooting ideas. However, looking back, I think I spent too much time talking instead of shooting. While I still appreciate & love the shots we managed to capture, I can't help but feel that we didn't quite hit the mark we were aiming for. Perhaps, in the future, we'll have the opportunity to collaborate again, and I'll make an effort to let Jojo's vision shine through rather than dominating the conversation.
Testing an idea with Holly | Holly Ridings | February 8, 2023
Creative experimentation with Holly Ridings. B&W studio photography experiments.
I had a concept I wanted to test out, and Holly was there to help out. We knew we were on to something. I’m going to play with this idea for a while. Different light. Different colors. I’m excited to explore something so simple, yet unlimited in its potential. It all started here. With Holly. What do you think?
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.
Adam Wayne | @Aydamn | January 13, 2023
I met Adam at a time I was not at my best. Shooting with him years later helped me get there.
At a time when my spirit was burdened by struggles, I crossed paths with Adam, a remarkable individual who had recently relocated to the vibrant city of Miami. Our chance encounter was infused with possibility as we discussed the potential for friendship and creative collaboration. However, hindered by my own lack of self-assurance, I regrettably allowed this budding relationship to fade into the background. It was a mistake that I now acknowledge wholeheartedly.
Years passed, during which missed opportunities to foster a genuine bond and produce exemplary work haunted me. Until the turning point arrived in 2023. In that pivotal year, fate intervened, and Adam and I once again found ourselves united. This reunion led to the birth of breathtaking creations that I now proudly hold dear to my heart – some of my favorite work to date. Moreover, this collaboration acted as a much-needed booster to my wavering confidence, igniting the flames of inspiration to kick off the new year in the most invigorating manner.
Working alongside Adam on this endeavor was an absolute delight. There was an undeniable chemistry between us, a synergy that permeated every moment of our collaboration. Together, we unleashed our artistic prowess and pushed the boundaries of our respective creative capabilities. The result was an extraordinary outcome that surpassed our wildest expectations.
My gratitude towards Adam knows no bounds. To my dear friend and collaborator, I extend my heartfelt appreciation. Thank you, brother, for rekindling the dormant ember of our friendship and for helping me regain my self-assurance. This shared experience was more than just the culmination of artistic vision – it was the reemergence of a connection that should have never been neglected. As I revel in the triumph of our creativity, I eagerly anticipate the future endeavors that await us – boundless opportunities to once again make magic together.
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,
