Happy New Year to everyone! I figured I’d start this year off with a blog that really hits home to a lot of photographers out there, so here it is.

I can’t tell you how many times I personally have been told, “I’m not a model, so I can’t do what those other people in your pictures do.” Inside my head I begin to laugh, then I tell them, ‘It’s okay, I completely understand what you mean. I know you’ll be just fine however, I will direct/coach you through the entire process and see what we will come up with to ensure success.’



For me, you can’t just like the idea of doing a photo shoot. You’ve got to be one hundred percent committed to it. That is when the real magic begins! I took a few months and calculated over 7 years of my work, and admittedly, ninety-eight percent of the people that I work with are not models. Forty percent have NEVER had a professional photo shoot done before.

I take pride in ensuring that my clients know my motto, “It’s not about you, it’s not about me, it’s about us and what WE can do together.” Basically, if you don’t look good, I don’t look good! On a shoot, I’m always concerned about the lighting, poses, and ensuring that everything comes together as perfectly as possible. I care…as do most professionals when they’re doing and giving their best.

The majority of, “Models” that I have worked with still require direction on a shoot. I’ve even had some come into the photo shoot without a clue on what to do. It’s no knock on them at all, it’s just that they may have been new, or just nervous. It happens…it happens to the best of us. The only people I may have issues with are the ones who’ve worked with other professionals, and they come in without a professional makeup job done, or no makeup at all. To me, that’s just a “sabotage” move. (Yes, it has unfortunately happened to me before!)

You’ve got to believe in yourself, and allow me, or your photographer of choice to help get the best 100% out of you. Don’t worry about another, “model” because for that moment…You are a model, so make the best of that moment and shine!! You never know, because I’ve shot with a lot of, “first timer” clients, and they went on to become professional models. That’s just how my Tribe rolls…we always are progressing! Keep shooting and have fun!!!

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Semper Fidelis, and thank you for your time!

Sincerely,
Mike (Your favorite Marine!)