Зйомка, яка переросла у справжню, фантастичну дружбу | Oksana Butovskaya | March 9, 2023
What started as a photoshoot became an opportunity to make new friends.
I used to be a card carrying member of the Anti-Photographer Photographer club. For some stupid reason, I, and many of my colleagues, don’t talk. We don’t support one another. We feel like we’re competing for the same eyeballs and dollars. Being a freelance artist is difficult and if you’re in my way, you’re my enemy. This is a terribly stupid and limiting way of thinking. Maybe it comes from shooting music events? Everyone is jockeying for the same spot, for the perfect shot in the DJ booth, or at the center-back of the venue…. I don’t know. Once again, it’s stupid, and a very antiquated way of thinking.
But I digress…. Oksana posted in a Facebook group that I am a moderator of, for Miami based photographers. Her work was incredible, and she has a very respectable social following. It has become extremely difficult to communicate with potential collaborators in this day and age of social communications. Models are getting hundreds to thousands of random request from random photographers of varying levels of talent and experience an it has to be excruciatingly difficult to choose, and follow through with anyone, especially those that are just trying to make something cool, for the sake of it.
She was super easy to talk with, so we planned our shoot. But, she said she could only do this if she could bring her boyfriend, who is also a photographer. Typically this would be a dealbreaker for me. Both for the bullshit egotistical reasons I stated above, and because, in my experience, unless there’s a whole team and large production, these small creative shoots go off best when attention is focused between photographer and subject. I have had more than one shoot that I felt went south because the subject (both male and female) were playing to their friend and not me. (Those clients probably don’t know… its just a creative preference)
But 2023 was a different year for me. It was all about giving, not taking. It was all about putting positivity into the universe, whether or not I got it back. (I’m writing this on Dec 26, and I can surely say IT WORKED. This year has been fantastic) So…. I said yes, bring him.
I could keep talking about this, and listing all the details. but I will skip to the gist of it…. She brought Nick, and the two of them became my friends. And I don’t mean the bullshit “friends” like social media has devolved the word. I knew these people for less than one month, and they showed up to my birthday (during Miami Music Week) with a cake for me! I have friends I have known for 20 years that would never have thought to do something like this.
Time to wrap it up. They are both incredibly talented and I am very grateful and fortunate to have them as my friends. You MUST check out Nick’s work too.
There are more images from this shoot that I might add at a later date. I still have this shoot in my “unfinished” folder.
(click image to enlarge)
Jesse Kirshbaum | The Coach, The Professor, & The CEO | March 5, 2023
I got to work with my old friend and colleague, Jesse Kirshbaum, in my second life, as a photographer.
Jesse and I have known each other in two of my lives. We first met back in the early Web 2.0 days, before social media screwed this world up beyond repair and I was a strategist at Ogilvy. We were both regulars in the corporate advertising and digital media scene in NYC (Yes. That was a thing. Look it up. It’s interesting AF. In fact, Taylor Lorenz recently wrote a book about all of it)
Jesse is an innovator. The dude has been bringing digital and social marketing to hip-hop since the jump. Look at me; thinking about my life in NYC, talking about NYC and hip-hop, and I’m already code-switching. So, it was a real honor and premium assignment/opportunity to update his headshots and social imagery for his move to Miami. We discussed the looks, came up with a handful of concepts, and did the thing.
Jesse is an inspiring guy to me. I see his hustle, his appreciation for art and technology, and more than anything, his overwhelmingly positive attitude and outlook about everything. Everything. You will never see him sweat… unless he’s on the tennis court.
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BMF | Caitlin Holt | March 1, 2023
It can truly be a shame when social media algorithms treat art as disposable. How did this one come and go so quickly?
Some people just ooze attitude and style. When I saw Caitlin at the Motorcar Cavalcade, I knew immediately she was the BMF of all the models working that day. I’m so glad I had an opportunity to talk with her, and even more so to work with her this March. Social media inadvertently makes these shoots seem so insignificant. One or two posts, and poof…. on to the next one. No real time to appreciate the incredible work we sometimes create. Not only that, photography is severely undervalued due to these stupid algorithms. Where does a photographer put an incredible shoot? Who gets to see it? If a tree falls in the woods….
So, as I sit here on Dec 26, 2023 and publish every finished photo created in 2023, I am taken aback by how incredible these images with Caitlin are. The final look, in the white ballerina tutu…. leaves me breathless. And, to be honest, I kind of forgot we did them. I’m soo glad I decided to make sure all the 2023 work is out there to be appreciated.
Cait, you’re a Baaaaaaaad MotherF**ker. If you’re reading this, text me. We must create more art together in 2024. And this time, let’s not let these stupid algorithms glance at them and then just move along.
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Crushing on Kate | Kate Makiela | February 26, 2023
Shooting with my friend and wonderful multi-faceted human, Kate.
This is the second time I am shooting with Kate, on the same beach, one or two years apart. We always seem to want to get together and create, but it's always last minute and on a trip that isn't intended for shooting. Kate is one of a kind. There aren't enough words to express how I feel about her as a friend and collaborator. However, I will admit, I hope that one day we can plan something more deliberate. She is such an amazing model, and we both deserve more than just the spontaneous "show up at the beach with what's in my bag and shoot" approach. Although, what the f**k am I complaining about? I have the incredible opportunity to shoot and hang out with Kate, and that in itself is something truly special.
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7 Looks With Katie Cook | February 25, 2023
Almost a year in the making, here’s what a day with Katie Cook, her suitcase, and a gorgeous South Beach home looks like.
I met Katie at Miami Music Week 2022, and it took almost a year to finlly get the chance to create with her. She brought everything I’d imagined; beauty, experience, style, confidence, and generosity of spirit. We had a gorgeous home to use as our backdrop, and here are the fruits of our labor.
Sometimes, when you’re being spontaneous & testing, you create something amazing. Sometimes you find things you didnt expect. Sometimes, you miss the mark, and what was in your head just doesn’t materialize. This shoot was all of those things. I don’t know if it was what either of us expected, but I am grateful for the experience, and home for the pleasure of creating with Katie again someday.
(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.
Run Sandy Run | Sandy Kakura | February 19, 2023
Sandy loves to run. I never shot someone running. She rarely, if ever, had been photographed running.
So, here we go…
When I first met and shot with Sandy, she mentioned that she rarely got to shoot herself doing her favorite thing... running. Intrigued by the challenge, I responded that I rarely shoot fitness content. Nonetheless, we decided to embark on an experiment together. With cameras in hand and determination in our hearts, we set out to capture Sandy in her element. The results were beyond my expectations. Sandy's passion and joy for running radiated from every image. Through her graceful movements and fierce determination, we were able to freeze moments of pure athleticism and appreciation for the sport. It was a reminder that sometimes the best results can come from embracing the unexpected and stepping out of our comfort zones.
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)
I Can Shoot Commercial Imagery Too! | Brenda Lowe, Sebastian Frings, & Jake | February 11, 2023
Thanks to Sebastian & Brenda, I got a chance to shoot some more commercial style imagery.
Man in Ocean in Suit | Sebastian Frings | February 11, 2023
Man. Ocean. Suit. Sebastian. Me.
Here's another one of those photoshoot ideas and plans that got completely delayed by the damn pandemic and the following depression that stopped me from being both social and creative. I had talked with Sebastian perhaps 2 years prior about this idea of a man in the ocean in a suit. Between COVID, difficult coordination of schedules, and my own demons, it took a long time to get this one shot and done.
While I love our results, I think we can do better. It was difficult to coordinate for a golden hour shoot, so we did the best we could when we finally got together to make this happen. One day, we'll reconvene and shoot this idea with even better light. I imagine the sun casting a breathtaking glow on the ocean surface, highlighting every droplet of water as it cascades off the man's suit, creating a mesmerizing effect. The perfect blend of warm hues and gentle waves will elevate this concept to another level. Despite the hurdles we faced, the passion and determination fueling this project remain unwavering. The pandemic may have forced us to take a detour, but it has only fueled our resolve to capture this vision with absolute brilliance. Stay tuned for the day when we bring this concept to life again, and the results will undoubtedly be extraordinary.
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?
Action with Ariana | Ariana Buscaglia | January 25, 2023
Getting gritty with Ariana
Ariana & I have been talking about shooting for a LONG time. Years. Its oftentimes difficult to sync schedules, let alone in this laid back city we call Miami. We bumped into one another at Art Basel back in December, had our first in-person conversation about the shoot, and that was the push we needed to make something happen. We were overwhelmed with ideas as well as the excitement of finally being able to create together. Here’s a bit of the magic we created that day.
Motorcar Cavalcade | January 15, 2023
I had no idea that $1,000,000,000 of automotive artistry would show up across the street from my home.
Here are the wonderful images from the Motorcar Cavalcade. I wrote about this new and unique experience for me in a previous email newsletter, which you can check out here.
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.
Ashley | January 5, 2023
A $exy shoot to start off the year, with Ashley.
A great, quick, and awesome shoot to kick off the year. Thanks, Ashley!
Ashley’s Linktree
Heaven with Haven | Haven Star Ross | July 22, 2022
An impromptu shoot with a superstar, Haven Star.
Thank Haven! This was a somewhat impromptu early morning shoot at a lovely home in Miami Beach. Sometimes, its great to keep it simple and quick when you’re collaborating with someone for the first time. We got some great images, but also laid the foundation for future collaborations. Keep an eye on Haven. She’s a rising star! You can check out her music here.
First Collab with Lee | Lee Dahlberg | June 29, 2017
The first time I collaborated with and photographed Lee Dahlberg.
I’m very fortunate to know and call Lee Dahlberg a friend. This was the first time we shot anything together. I showed up with a camera and strobe. The rest is history. You’ll see him again.
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.
5 Looks with Cameron | 5 of 5 | Cameron Newbill | October 19, 2016
Cameron Newbill, Lauren Searle, & I made these images.
This was the last of 5 looks we photographed that day.
The final look was a simple cashmere hooded sweatshirt. We were quickly approaching sunset, and the wind was acting wild. Therefore, we only got a couple shots with this look, and I further proved to myself that using flash outdoors at this hour just doesn’t work for my style. The final image is proof of this, and is only here for narrative purposes. Cameron was and is a superstar. Her work is fantastic and deserves a look. The same can be said about Lauren Searle, who did hair and make-up for this shoot. We shot FIVE looks that day. This is the fifth.
5 Looks with Cameron | 4 of 5 | Cameron Newbill | October 19, 2016
Cameron Newbill, Lauren Searle, & I made these images.
This was the fourth of 5 looks we photographed that day.
Two more looks and we’re running out of daylight. The red bus seemed like a great backdrop for the green camo jacket. We were headed to the beach for the final look, and grabbed a couple more shots with this one before the wardrobe change. Cameron was and is a superstar. Her work is fantastic and deserves a look. The same can be said about Lauren Searle, who did hair and make-up for this shoot. We shot FIVE looks that day. This is the fourth.
