art

Why Professional Photography Matters for Openings Like This

Short Pump, Virginia just got a little more delicious with the opening of Emmy Squared Pizza, and I had the pleasure of documenting their newest location with a full commercial photoshoot.

Image captured with my drone. It shows the neighborhood as well as the restaurant.

Interiors before the crowd.

From the moment I arrived, I knew this was more than just a restaurant launch—it was a thoughtfully crafted brand experience. Using a mix of drone photography, still images, and detailed interior shots, I set out to tell the story of Emmy Squared’s arrival in Short Pump from the ground (and air) up.

The first 25 customers get free pizza for a year!

The lucky winners.

If you’re opening a new location or rolling out a brand refresh, don’t underestimate the value of capturing the moment professionally. These aren’t just pictures—they’re your brand’s visual handshake with the world.

We highlighted everything from their signature Detroit-style pies and inviting ambiance to the thoughtful design touches that make each Emmy Squared location unique. With drone photography, we captured the surrounding area and the buzz around the opening from above. On the ground, we focused on crisp, high-resolution images that showcase the textures, colors, and style that define their brand.

When launching a new location, your first impression is everything. Strong visual storytelling can make all the difference—especially in today’s digital-first marketing world. As a commercial photographer, my goal is not just to take beautiful photos, but to create images that work hard for your brand—images that stop the scroll, tell your story, and get people excited to visit. Whether it’s for press coverage, social media, or your website, having a professional set of opening images gives you a polished, consistent look that builds credibility and draws people in.

School of Rock provided the music.

Mix of drone and photography are a good match.

Why Professional Photography is Essential for Modern Businesses

When it comes to corporate events, conferences are among the most dynamic, multifaceted, and rewarding experiences to photograph. This past week, I had the privilege of traveling to Orlando to document a three-day conference, capturing its essence through still photography, video, and drone work. From vibrant keynote speeches to lively evening gatherings, my goal was to tell a story—one that showcased the energy, connection, and scale of the event.

Like everything I photograph, I always want to be telling a story.

The Power of Visual Storytelling at Conferences

Conferences bring people together for learning, networking, and inspiration. As a photographer, my role is to preserve these moments and create visuals that evoke the spirit of the event long after it ends. In Orlando, this meant being everywhere at once: documenting speakers delivering impactful presentations, attendees engaging in workshops, and evening celebrations brimming with camaraderie.

One highlight was using drone photography and time-lapse video to emphasize the scale of the conference. These tools added depth to the story—whether showcasing attendees filling a massive hall or capturing transitions from bustling day activities to illuminated nighttime festivities. The result? A visual narrative that was as dynamic as the event itself.

A moment of calm.

Here is a brief time lapse video.

Morgan Brennan from CNBC was there doing interviews.

Michael Saylor being interviewed.

In today’s competitive landscape, the way you present your business matters more than ever. High-quality event photography not only preserves the memories of the day but also serves as a valuable tool for:

Client and Employee Engagement: Celebrate your team’s achievements and build connections by sharing professional, vibrant photos.

Marketing and Promotion: Use compelling images to promote future events, highlight key moments, and engage your audience on social media.

Brand Storytelling: Showcase your company’s personality and values through authentic, behind-the-scenes captures.

“The Super Bowl
of consumer conferences”

Jim Cramer
CNBC

Night events each evening.

A nice mix of business and pleasure.

Long exposures to show motion.

Corporate events are a unique opportunity to showcase your company’s culture, achievements, and vision. I specialize in capturing these moments with creativity and expertise, ensuring your event’s energy and professionalism are reflected in every image.

If you’re planning a corporate event, let’s connect to discuss how I can help make it unforgettable through exceptional imagery. Together, we can create a collection of photos that highlights the best of your event while serving as a powerful tool for your company’s growth and success.

More long exposures.

Drone image I took of The JW Marriott Orlando.

Photographing Basketball for the First Time: Lessons Learned and Tips for Better Shots

As photographers, it’s easy to get comfortable with the subjects and settings we know best. But stepping out of our comfort zone and capturing something completely new can make all the difference in improving our craft. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph a basketball game for the first time, and it turned out to be a valuable learning experience that deepened my understanding of how to handle different shooting scenarios. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, venturing into unfamiliar territory forces you to think on your feet and adapt to the unique challenges each subject presents.

Driving with stop action with the Canon R8. the focus is amazing.

Basketballs athletic moves are amazing to catch.

Playing hoops myself gives me an idea where the ball was going and where the action is.

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Photographing basketball for the first time was an eye-opening experience. I learned about the importance of proper settings, strategic positioning, and adaptability—all of which will help me become a more versatile and skilled photographer. Whether you’re shooting sports, events, or anything else, the key takeaway is to embrace new challenges and push yourself to experiment in unfamiliar scenarios. In the end, it will only help you become a better photographer and develop a deeper appreciation for the art of capturing moments in any environment.

So, if you get the chance to photograph something outside of your usual realm, don’t hesitate. Take it as an opportunity to learn and grow, and you might just surprise yourself with how much you can improve your craft.

Reflections on Judging at the Stamford Photography Club

Recently, I had the privilege of serving as a judge for the Stamford Photography Club. It was an incredible experience that left me inspired and invigorated. The talent and creativity displayed by the photographers were nothing short of remarkable. As I reviewed each submission, I was struck not only by the technical skill but also by the unique stories and perspectives conveyed through the images.

Being a judge offered me a fresh perspective on the art of photography. It challenged me to articulate what makes an image impactful and to appreciate the diverse approaches photographers take to communicate emotion, composition, and storytelling. Witnessing such dedication to the craft reminded me why photography holds such a special place in my life—it’s not just about capturing moments but about creating connections.

I found judging very fun and inspiring.

The Joy of Being a Photo Enthusiast

Photography is more than a hobby; it’s a way to view the world differently. It encourages us to slow down, observe, and appreciate the details that often go unnoticed. For enthusiasts, it’s an outlet for creativity and a medium to share personal narratives.

Joining a local photography group, like the Stamford Photography Club, comes with so many benefits. It provides a platform to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for visual storytelling. These groups foster a sense of community, offer valuable learning opportunities through workshops and critiques, and create avenues for inspiration.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, participating in a local club can help you grow both technically and creatively. It’s a chance to refine your skills, gain new perspectives, and even explore new genres of photography you may not have considered before.

An Inspiring Takeaway

Being part of a photography community—whether as a judge, participant, or enthusiast—is a reminder of the endless possibilities of the medium. Each image tells a unique story, and every photographer brings a fresh perspective to the table. Judging for the Stamford Photography Club reinforced my belief in the power of photography to connect, inspire, and evoke emotion.

If you’ve ever thought about joining a local photography group, I encourage you to give it a try. You might discover not only a community that shares your passion but also new ways to see and capture the world around you.

It is very seldom that all 3 judges have the same score, but here we did.

Staying Motivated as a Photographer: Finding Inspiration

Every photographer hits moments where motivation wanes. One of the best ways to reignite that passion is by exploring the work of other photographers. For me, Rodney Smith is a major influence. His elegant, whimsical images remind me that photography is more than just capturing a moment—it’s about creating a world within the frame.

The Saugatuck Railroad Bridge in Westport Connecticut.

Before the event at La Plage in Westport, Connecticut.

Portrait on location Bridgeport, Connecticut.

Texture. Westport, Ct

It is all about the hair. Westort, Ct

Before the triathlon.

Try new techniques. Stepping outside your comfort zone often sparks new ideas.The key to staying motivated is seeking inspiration from others. A single photo can reignite your passion and remind you why you fell in love with photography.

Build an inspiration library. Collect images that inspire you, whether online or in print.

Study photography masters. Explore the work of icons like Rodney Smith, Annie Leibovitz, or Henri Cartier-Bresson to gain fresh insights.

Connect with current photographers. Following creative, boundary-pushing photographers keeps your perspective fresh.

When I feel stuck, looking at Smith’s work pushes me to rethink my approach. Here are a few ways you can stay motivated by drawing inspiration from other photographers: