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..........."Dream as if you'll live forever,
.................Live as if you'll die tomorrow"
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When we meet, the first thing you’ll probably notice is that I walk a bit oddly due to some muscle paralysis…the legacy of a bout with Polio shortly after birth. It’s been bothersome at times, but I’ve gotten on in spite of a disability, not because of it. I mention this for two reasons. First, to all the models I’ve shot, thank you for dreaming with me and seeing the possibilities instead of the limitations. Second, to the models I have yet to shoot, you should know that I am always upfront about everything with those who choose to shoot with me. If we succeed together, it will be on a base of honesty and trust.
When given the choice, I will always opt for making decisions that are straightforward and as uncomplicated as possible.
My background is in advertising. I had years with a graphic design shop in my home town and with Volvo of America on the eastern seaboard. So I have worked with and learned from some of the best agency people in both Chicago and New York. I’ve worked with the photographic process on a commercial level but I practice it on an artistic one.
I love photography for many reasons, but mostly because of its inherent chameleonic nature. While it can claim to be the purveyor of truth, it is as much the essence of illusion. As you look through my photos, hopefully you will question if I am showing reality or just my perception of it.
When I first started shooting, I hit the streets in search of capturing scenes like this:
Today, my focus is more towards portraits that are up close and personal. Some are introspective. Some are total fantasy. All are fun to do. I have no cause, no agenda, no message to give the world. I just came here to get better at shooting and I’ve been super impressed with the credentials had by many of the models I’ve shot. It was a lesson to me that you can be both beautiful and smart. (As you look at my pictures, see if you can pick out which of the models are additionally a Naturalist, a Rocket Scientist, and a Linguist.)
I am not a political animal. So if you're aiming to secure a power position here or are involved in organizing a clique, or are instrumental in any way with activities that could hurt someone, please leave me out. I am not interested.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM ME:
* 6-8 enhanced images.
* My home/studio is in Lisle. Location shooting is limited.
* Before shooting someone new, I like to meet over coffee to break the ice.
* I do not shoot models under the age of 18 unless accompanied by a parent.
* You will need to sign a model release which you can review prior to the shoot.
* You may bring an escort to our shoot.
* What we shoot will depend on the your looks, personality and interests, coupled with my imagination.
* Shooting sessions last about 2-3 hours.
* I prefer not to shoot on weekends as I like to spend that part of the week being with family. (Because after all, "A man who does not spend time with his family is not a man" - Vito Corleone)
I’m completely open to collaboration and I’m willing to modify a shooting style (even in the middle of a shoot) based on the model’s ideas. I am experienced in shooting anything from headshots to full figure, lingerie, artistic, artistic nudes, couples, and family portraits. I am comfortable with shooting just about anything. However, I will not shoot pornography or scenes depicting blood, gore or violence.
My MM portfolio is just a sample of the images I’ve made, but it gives you a general idea of my range of styles. I’m always looking to try something new, so if there’s something you want, but don’t see, just ask.
