Independence Days - Lifestyle Photography

Several years ago, while I was in college and working for an event photography company, I took a job on the Fourth of July. A big fat amazing party in Corona del Mar at this big fat house with a big fat guest list of all of the hosts' friends and family. It was a killer party.

And I was in a killer physical state. To make a long and disgusting story short and tasteful, it was a really rough couple of hours. Being sick, and being at this awesome party with all of these awesome friends and family of the hosts', I vowed to never work on the Fourth of July again. I've spent it with my own awesome family and friends ever since.

This year, however, my parents are out of town at a huge family reunion that I had to miss due to shoots today and Monday. So this year is a little different, in more ways than one.

Now here I sit, the day before our country's independence day, and I can't help but think of my own independence. I'm still far from where my vision will take me. I'm still far from where I want to be. However, I've come to a point as an artist where I am excited and honored to stand on my own. My clients trust me and value my work. My friends and contacts appreciate my work. My family is proud of my work. And some are moved by my work.

There is no better way to celebrate independence day this year than to reflect on the freedom I have in my work and the way I fit into myself and my goals more each day. I belong to myself. I am true to myself. And my family, friends and clients allow me that.

So let music swell the breeze, and ring from the trees, sweet freedom's song...let freedom ring!

Have a great weekend, everyone. Be safe. And be free.

(one of my first ever self portraits pictured, 2003)