FAQ’s
Where are you from?
I’m from Northern California. San Jose to be exact.
When did you first discover you love/passion for photography?
I took my first roll of film in 6th grade, took photography in 7th grade had business cards by 8th grade and at that point I knew I was gonna do this for the rest of my life. I love what I do and do what I love!
What kind of cameras do you use?
I’ve used them ALL in the last 40 years… everything from 35mm to Polaroid to 6×7 and now digital. There isn’t a camera or system I have NOT tried. My main camera now is a Hasselblad H1 w/Phase One P25 back. I just got a Hasselblad X1D and I’m loving it big time. Simple and easy!
What photographers inspire you most?
Since I was a kid I always worshiped the BIG 3… Richard Avedon, Irving Penn & David Bailey. Everything they did just made sense to me in every way. Simple, honest, real and great! Their art will last forever and that says everything. These days the photographers I admire most and look at… Richard Avery, Peter Lindbergh, Mario Testino and Nobuyoshi Araki. Sad to say, most photographers and photography is pretty boring to me at this point. Everyone looks the same cuz they all use the same gear. Everything is done in post and that’s OK, but it makes for a bit boring look.
What are you most proud of?
Simple… I’m still creating after all these years and doing my best work now! I’ve never lost my passion for my art. I’ve never stopped believing in me. I’ve never given up no matter how difficult life has been. I’ve always pushed myself to get better and never settle. Most of all I’m grateful for everything and everyone in my life!
Besides photography, what else are you passionate about?
Wow! Tough question. SO much. Anything creative makes me smile. I love directing, producing and music! Those are the basics.
Really 50 years?
Let’s just say very close and getting closer. I shot my first roll of film in 6th grade. Fell in love with photography in 7th grade and never looked back. Do the math… it’s 50 years and counting.
Who were your favorite teachers?
I had more than a few starting with my 7th grade photography teacher. Then my first boss at a color lab. Then my boss & best friend when I moved to LA. Most of all my business manager of 25 years. A whole bunch of others throughout my life that I thank everyday. Seriously wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my teachers.
What inspires you?
SO much. Starting with my friends. I’m so blessed to have so many great friends. They are my family. So very close to so many. Also I know this sounds dumb, but life inspires me. I’m beyond grateful for my life and I work so hard to live my best life.
Last, what do you want now?
WOW! That’s a tough one, but I will keep it simple. I want to be healthy, keep creating, keep learning, keep growing and most of all be better at everything I do!!!
