In one sense, my background has nothing to do with photography. And yet, my background as long time high school teacher and counselor, now recently retired, has everything to do with my photography.

 

It’s because my natural and trained ability to build a rapport and relationship with my subjects, especially teens and children, explains the most important quality of my photography: My subjects feel very comfortable in front of the camera and for that reason, they often say, “You captured my essence.” And for that reason, those who view my photos, will often notice, “Your subjects look relaxed and look like they’re having a good time.”

 

I believe they are having a good time. And that’s because when I’m behind the lens, I’m having a blast! Creating something pretty with colorful Spring flowers or something cool with an old rusty fence and graffiti in the city is totally inspirational for me. My shoots are high energy, fun, and an artistic search for something a little different from the typical Sr Picture, family photo, Engagement image, or child at play. I love fashion, both the wardrobe and poses, and this leads me to a fashion-oriented style of shooting.

 

While I do have a studio, location shooting is my passion and talent. Everywhere I look outdoors, I see a photograph waiting to happen. I pride myself on making something out of nothing and creating a visually appealing portrait when the senior or parent looks at the same scene and wonders, “What is he thinking? There’s nothing really very pretty about this location.”

 

What’s also important to know about my approach, especially with Sr Pictures, is that for me, it’s not just about the senior showing up and being cycled through in 1-2 hours and then moving quickly to the next senior. Not my style.  It’s about art. It’s about taking whatever time is necessary to create something unique. It’s me searching for a different pose, another angle, changing the composition by capturing another aspect of the setting/background. It’s taking risks with trying something new and different so you get one-of-a-kind photos. It seems to be working. The parents of Katie, featured on the "HOME" page, emailed me, "Scott, You definitely have a gift and an eye for just the right shot."

 

And for that reason, great care and individualized attention is given to each shoot. In advance of a session, I scout locations, never satisfied using ones I’ve shot before. In addition, I meet with each family days before our session to look at outfits, do test shots, and determine which locations best compliment each outfit.

 

I once wrote about my previous life as a high school educator, “My calling had found me. I was where I was always supposed to be.”  Now, as a full time portrait photographer, I feel the same way.