Saying I do-beauty spot Edition
Life has a funny way of making connections for us and I am so grateful for all those I have made, and those I expect to keep making in my time with and without my camera present. As I lean into the things that reward me the most, I keep finding myself loving my work, more and more. Nature has always been a constant in my life, and it shows it face in my work often. Especially the images the world never sees. The work that I make for me. The work printed in my office.
“When I admire the wonder of a sunset or the beauty of the moon, my soul expands in worship of the Creator”- Mahatma Gandi
I was recently asked to photograph the elopement for Kailea and Zane, who I met as they accompanied their friends, Summer and Tony while I was photographing them last year. Full circle stuff. When Kailea and I started the conversation, she mentioned the plan was to get married at the court house then find somewhere nice for photos. I am thrilled to say that, plans changed, as they often do. She mentioned needing an option where her grandparents could get to as they were to attend and I fall short on words to describe how beautiful her grandparents are. In their connection, their love for one another, and their love for Kailea. ( Im sure they love Zane too lol ) It was a perfect evening in Unicoi as I drove through Rock Creek climbing Unaka Mountain to ultimately arrive early at our destination, the Beauty Spot. Having been here many times in the past both for work, and for pleasure I had no need to be as early as I was, but I will never pass up a few quite moments alone, in places where the sky touches the earth. I posted up with my book ( These Silent Woods) and disconnected from society while I waited for my people to arrive. The images below where the start of the adventure into forever for this amazing couple, and their friends and family. A total party of 12 if you count the minister and his girlfriend. Small and perfect!
As we chatted and devised a loose plan the rain decided to join us. An uninvited guest, but one I will always greet with a smile once they have made an appearance. A light sprinkle was enough to don the umbrellas to keep our couple dry but sheer minutes after we reached the top ( a lovely albeit short walk for those who may never have been) the rain said it’s farewells and left us with a remarkable sunset cascading over the distant Blue Ridge Mountains. The ceremony was lovely, and working in remote locations gives me so much more access to angles, and point of views. I was able to maneuver anywhere I wish without being a distraction. The couple were swept up in their adoration for one another as they vocalized the commitment to their person. It is always an honor to capture moments like this, but even more so in locations that beg for our attention. I will leave you with a few more images below and please come back, as I plan to create another entry soon discussing tips to plan for such days and for your elopement with me.
BlackHeart Salon of Kingsport Tennessee
Its me again, and this time Im bringing something a little different. So with all the madness in the world and the non stop talk of pandemics my small business is still grinding every day. Luckily for me, I am a pro at “Social Distancing”, and the adventure in my normal work proves that. Today though I wanted to share something very different for me. I forget that people and future clients, only assume I shoot what I share the most of, and well that’s just not always the case. I have worked with multiple clothing companies, products, and also modeling agencies. I recently had the extreme pleasure of working with Annie to capture these and more images of their salon in downtown Kingsport, TN.
You may recognize this location from a video we did at ThroatPunch Productions for my wife, where I cut her hair off before she started her chemo treatments. Annie is the reason we were able to shoot here, and she is the professional that came in and finished the haircut while I picked my camera back up and went to work through tears and all the emotions. When she messaged me about capturing the essence of the salon, I was more than happy to help as they are entering a contest on Salon Decor. I hope they crush it, but if you have ever been inside, its easy to see why this place not only appeals to my style, but should win the contest. Its amazing, dark, eclectic, and just badass. Everyone I have met while being there with Natasha, or when meeting with Annie, have been amazing. I even shot a short video for her, where I was allowed to use music from her husband and friends band, Wulfhound. ( click the band name for the song we used, your welcome )
Every inch of the salon has character. Its genuinely unique.
I know what your thinking, “wait a minute, Jeremy you are bald so what do you know about salons?” I would say that your correct. I don’t know anything about hair, style, fashion, or anything related to a salon but I do know how the place feels. I know how inspiring it is to walk into, and how welcoming it is. That is something I can dig my teeth into, and hope that is exactly what I convey here. The overall feel of Black Heart Salon. Click the link below and send them some love, and then more photos will follow.
Black Heart Salon
