I am retired from the US Air Force after 26 years as a aircraft mechanic/supervisor. I got interested in photography in high school. But, the military had other plans for me. So, I put down my camera and my dream to be a photographer. I have waited a long time to pursue this dream. Photography is truly my passion.
However, I realize that I have to be patient; every path has a beginning and this is a new beginning for me. My goal is to learn this craft and become a successful portrait/glamour photographer. I choose to gauge that success by the relationships I can build along the way and the smiles I can put on peoples faces as well; not so much by how much money I can make at it. Of course, everyone has to eat. I will know by looking at my work when that time comes. For now; its all about learning and getting better.
I appreciate and enjoy the creative efforts of photographers, models, makeup, hairstylists and wardrobe persons. I wish to use this site to meet fellow photographers, models and MUA's, etc.; to learn from their images and creativity; gain experience and improve my own abilities as a photographer.
I welcome and encourage tags and photo comments just like anyone else. No matter how far I go with photography I will never forget where I came from or where the journey started. There is always someone better than ourselves weather we choose to believe it or not. Enough said on this...sorry. This outlook will ensure I remain modest and encouraging in my opinions and comments. Eventually, I hope to be helpful and supportive to others trying to learn this craft. Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. Seeing it is the first and easiest step...humans are visual (men more so than women). Expressing and giving compliments concerning beauty is a little more difficult. But, the hardest of all is learning how to create, capture and preserve that beauty forever! I think I do a very good job of leaving tags and photo comments when I see something I like. I do an even better job in replying to those that I receive from others. So, if you have the time, stop by and say hello or leave a comment.
I try to be honest about my work and what my time, experience, and level of proficiency should yield. I only ask and expect everyone else to do the same. When all three of those come together you and I will know. Until then....well, the portfolio should tell our story and define our worth. Enough said! I don't use the term professional when referring to myself or my work. I have yet to get to the point that this is my primary occupation. Secondly, I choose to reserve that title to the dozens of amazingly talented photographers on this site and others like this one. I do take notice of those on both sides of the camera that use terms like "professional and very experienced" rather lightly. If you use terms like that to describe your work, then, the portfolio should definitely support the claim. We all have mirrors....lets use them and be honest with ourselves. Don't place yourself on a pedestal...let those around you place you up there. And then remember to be modest while on your post.
MY WEB BASED NETWORKING PHILOSOPHY: Sites like these are a combination of a first "passive" interview and an addition (substitute) to a printed portfolio. As such: you would never put a camera pic or a wallet size print in your printed port. Therefore, there is no place for it here either. You don't have to go out and spend a bunch of money to get some nice captures to put in your book. There has to be someone with the passion if not experience in your area to work with on a TF basis. Take the time and effort to put your best foot (work) forward. It is your first impression. Number two: everything in your online port should tell the same story. For example..."semi professional status", "experienced", and "paid shoots only"....and then back it up with 4-8 cam pics or point and shoot shots by your best friend or boyfriend don't add up.
I will make a couple of quick notes regarding compensation. I understand totally that most everyone is on this journey to earn money. First, let me say that I am open to negotiating rates and/or compensation. With that said, I have more experience shooting family, traditional portraiture (senior style), and children. I enjoy shooting those sessions. If that is what you are interested in, or you refer someone to me, I will expect compensation for these services.
However, shooting with individuals starting out in modeling or already established is the direction I am trying to take my photography. My interests are to shoot images that steer toward glamour, lingerie and swimsuit style. In order to accomplish this goal, I must learn and strengthen my skills and portfolio. Therefore, I am currently doing shoots of this nature on a TF* basis. Please contact me for ideas, terms and specifics. Don't be shy :) I promise I don't bite and I even have some references to that. I will shoot you though...jj...only with my camera! And that doesn't hurt at all :)
If you are in the area and you are interested in shooting together, don't hesitate to contact me. I have more photos posted on myspace at myspace.com/freezeframe007. I can also be reached via phone @ 850-397-4549.
http://www.myspace.com/freezeframe007
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