I’ve realized that I tend to have the same thought after almost every show, which is “these are my favorite photos I’ve ever taken,” and I think it’s probably a good thought to have. When I look back at old photos I’ve taken I generally think they’re pretty terrible. A few days ago someone said that he doesn’t understand why I still do work for free when I already have a complete portfolio. I by no means have a portfolio that I consider to be complete, and I don’t think I ever will, but right now I do have one that I like and am confident in presenting to people. But, that doesn’t mean that I don’t want to constantly change and add and subtract things. As a photographer, you look at your work with a completely different eye than anyone else; you’re drawn to the tiniest details in the corner of the photo that most people wouldn’t even notice. It’s strange to think of the kind of standards that a person holds for him or herself, especially someone who works in an art-related field.

I am so very fortunate to now be working with Substream, a magazine that I have followed for years and before now, have only ever dreamed of being published in. I had the wonderful opportunity of photographing Young the Giant on their most recent tour promoting their new album Home of the Strange, and I have to say I am pretty proud of the photos I took. A year ago I would have never been able to capture what I did here, and in a year’s time still, my photos won’t look anything like these (whether that be good or bad). Everything you do you should adapt and change, work to improve yourself and your work, and push the limits on what you can do. You might have a portfolio that some see as complete, but you should never see it that way – keep adding and making it better. You might surprise yourself in what you can do.

(ps: I played with some new editing techniques here: I added lots of light bubbles and some rough grain to give a few of the photos a film look. I think I like it but I will always accept feedback in any way, shape, or form 🙂 )

Ra Ra Riot

YOUNG THE GIANT