Alexis Class of 2020

What a year this has been, and currently continues to be. It is a terrible shame that this years Seniors are not having the experience they deserve, the experience they have earned. I know no one could expect the rollercoaster that this calendar year would turn out to be and that the Class of 2020 would be the Class of a Quarantine as well. Most small businesses have suffered and some have all but had to shut down completely but I am happy to say that joy is still very much alive. That creativity will live on. When Alexis’ mom messaged me months ago discussing her senior portraits, well we clearly had a different plan but I am extremely pleased to say that I don’t think this session could have turned out any better. I have looked at these often and posted a few sneak peaks but I am happy to say her gallery is alive and its straight fire! A few samples now…

With all the disappointment that I can only imagine some seniors are feeling with the turn of events, I hope beyond those disappointments, they are able to see the cup half full so to speak. I hope they see all they accomplished and they see this down time as an opportunity to get a jump on their next adventure. I am sure some will give me crap for shooting during this time but you know what, Alexis deserved this and there was no way I was going to let her miss this milestone. There was zero chance we weren’t going to document this and man we did it well :) Thats all for now but I have another session coming soon..

Congratulations Alexis!!!

Tony + Summer

Every now and then you have a session that is just stupid fun. I mean the kind of day that makes you smile until your face hurts. Thats what happened while hanging out with Summer and Tony on this day. Summer was quick to let me know that I could include the out takes as they love them and she would post them, so I have included a couple here but that may give you a window into the overall joy of our time together. Tony and I have been friends for a few years after we met at the gym. At that time he and I both attended Crossfit Melee, which is now Mountain Top Crossfit and if you have ever tried Crossfit you know how quickly it is to make friends who are sharing the same sucky experience as you LOL. Fast forward to this session and all its greatness. They asked to meet up at Steele Creek Park in Bristol, TN and I was happy to oblige.

Back rides and forehead kisses for his lady.

Even in this first image above you can see the affection they share, but you can also see the laughter and how much we cut up for the entire session. We walked and talked and I got to know them both a little better. We avoided anyone that may be out ( be smart people ) and made our way around the lake. The lighting was a little tricky in the beginning but by the end of our session the light was looking pretty incredible.

I always want to leave my work for clients, and hope that above all else it creates a feeling. Stirs emotion, brings back memories of wonderful times they shared, and act as a reminder that its ok to slow down and be present. Its ok to be still and wait. Its also ok to laugh like children, and sneak those ever so subtle looks at your person while they are unaware.

Be safe, show someone you care, and sneeze into your elbow LOL

Iron Market Coffee Co.

Do you love coffee? Do you love helping people? Well today’s blog post is especially for you. Grab your favorite coffee mug and let’s get to it. PSA- If you love coffee you may need a bib going forward. How delicious is this?

I mean that contrast from light to shadows is well, my favorite.

A little back story before I drop the other images below which is becoming my go to design for this blog. Maybe Ill mix it up or maybe I won’t. Keep tuning in to find out. Ok, coffee but not just in coffee. We are talking about Haitian Blue by Iron Market Coffee. My good friend Robert Brown messaged me on Facebook recently and asked if I would be interested in trying this new coffee he and a friend of his is selling, and DUH of course I do. I love coffee. Just ask Silva Coffee, or Dangerous But Good as I have also shot for them. I like-a-the coffee. He said he would bring a sample to work and I could run by and grab it, so Atlas and I did just that. It is a very smooth coffee. I am no expert here but you will have to grab a bag and see what I mean for yourself. The website can be found HERE and you should also click HERE and get to Instagram and tell them I sent you. I also wanted to give you the reason behind this brand and as I started to compose this entry, I realized I am not the person to do so. I messages Robert immediately and asked that he give me the reason in his own words.

“Travis Gouge and I have both gone to Haiti on Mission trips and developed a passion for the region and wanted to do more to help. Travis originally had the idea and brought me in knowing I had a passion for coffee and Haiti.”

The back of the bag reads:

“The Iron Market in Port Au Prince stands tall as a symbol of hope for the people of Haiti. Our mission at Iron Market Coffee is to provide our customers with the freshest and best coffee possible while also helping to give hope to a country in desperate need of basic necessities.

We purchase the beans directly from Haiti, which provides needed income for coffee farmers. The beans are roasted and individually bagged for every customer. All profits from the coffee are given directly back to help provide food and education for children in Haiti.”

The money they raise from the sale of this coffee, goes to help those that need it, directly in Haiti. See, amazing coffee and an even better cause. Why buy coffee to line the pockets of some corporation when you can actually help someone who genuinely needs some help. Worse case you try and it and you don’t love it as much as we do, then mail me the rest, and you still helped someone and that is something to be proud of too. Seriously I will drink it LOL

Ok photos are what I do and what I do best so lets put this keyboard to bed. Photo time:

#coffeeonamission

Trinity Senior Session

She asked for different, so different she got!

Trinity is one tough lady and I am glad to know her and even more ecstatic that her she is still writing her story. I won’t even attempt to tell her story, but I hope she does some day. Just know, Cancer has nothing on this girl. If you know me you know the C word has tore through my families world when Natasha was diagnosed with not 1 but 2 types of cancer. I think this combined with my having known Trinity for years, made this particular session hard for me. Not hard to do what I love. Not hard because she isn’t a wonderful young lady to spend the afternoon with. She was a rockstar in every definition of the word. I think this was hard because I put more pressure on myself to deliver. Not just pleasing photos but to deliver a message almost. I wanted these to mean something. I wanted these to bring joy to someone in this stupid pandemic we are all trying to navigate in our own ways. I wanted her to know, how amazing she is and how grateful this world is to have her still kicking ass in it.

We had chatted back and forth for weeks off and on to decide the mood she wanted for her images. She and I have similar interest as far as the mood of the work ( Dramatic ) so this was a blast for me to be apart of. She was open to any idea I had as long as that included a gross Sweet Tea from Pals in the end. Needless to say she got her Tea.

I love to find new ways to use areas i’ve shot in the past to create something different for my clients, and this can be a struggle, but if you know me at all, you know I am fiercely competitive so I am up for the task. Don’t believe me, check it out for yourself already.

This is just a sample of the gallery I will be releasing today or tomorrow but I coudln’t wait to share a few of these for her, and with you. I hope you enjoyed these images, all taken with the Canon Eos RP, Canon 35L and Good AD200. Do you have a High School or Collegiate Senior needing photos to document this monumental time in their life? I know a guy. Have a great Tuesday where ever you are.

J

Sunday Introductions

I am writing this to hopefully shed some light onto who I am behind the camera but more importantly to break up the negativity surrounding us these days and times. The pandemic is in full force around us and I thought, I might write something different and distracting to those who take the time to read it. I don’t plan for this to be a look into my past, but more of who I am now, as an artist specifically. Let’s get to the bottom of it.

I should probably start with some basic information for anyone who hasn’t met me or doesn’t know me at all. Hi, Im Jeremy Gouge ( gooj ) and I live and grew up here in East Tennessee. I am a geek, and love technology and being a photographer/ cinematographer / creative lends well to me for that reason if nothing else. I have a Youtube problem but mostly because of my curiosity in all things related to creating. If I were to share my view history and subscription list, you may think “ is he interested in anything except his line of work?”
The short answer is of course I do but nothing is as interesting or consuming for me. I am constantly trying to learn new things. I love to read books actually. Not may people know that about me. Ill get into that a bit more below.

ME

I don’t remember picking up the camera for the first time, and being overwhelmed with purpose, but I wish I had. I don’t even remember picking up a camera for the first time at all. I assume it was something my parents had while I grew up, and definitely only shot film but I cant recall any of those moments. I actually have a very hard time remembering a lot of things from my childhood, and even in general. This is one of the major reasons my photographs mean so much to me. They a are a reminder, a glimpse at a memory just beyond my mental reach. I hope I deliver that to my clients as well, but I am selfish in my work because it’s how I recall moments in time. Please don’t mis understand though, my need to create is even greater than my desire to remember. It is why I don’t see a time, when I am not documenting my world. I didn’t do it enough younger in life and now at 40, well just expect a camera to be on or with me at all times. I have used this time quarantined at home to reflect and to also try and document this time differently as well.

I am a husband to my lovely wife, Natasha and we have been married for 10 years this year ( if we don’t murder each other before August LOL ). We have 3 boys, Austin, Jaryn, and Atlas. We also have 2 pups as of writing this, Cinder and Bean. We are collectively competitive and that’s fun, and we love all things outdoors. From hiking, to camping, off roading, hunting for the boys, fishing, etc. We also love to travel ( dang it Corona ) and look very much toward our upcoming adventures whatever they are. We attend North Ridge Community Church here in Johnson City, and I also volunteer there to capture services, make videos, and help run social media.

Ok lets talk about books. I think reading is a wonderful pastime, and one I never had interest in until I was in my 20s. I have since discovered a passion for books and those fall into 3 categories generally speaking.

1) Faith

2) Photography- you don’t say

3) Phycological Crime Fiction- the crazier the better :)

2 of the 3 books in the series.. your welcome

I am currently devouring a series by J.D. Barker and cant put it down. The characters are relatable, the plots are brilliant and this last book in the 4MK ( 4 Monkey Killer- Hear No Evil, See No Evil, Speak no evil, Do no evil ) and it may be one of my favorite books ever. I love all things written by John Connolly and Chelsea Cain as well.

Did you know I love poetry? Yep that’s me. Throat Tattoo and all. I love all things Edgar Allen Poe, and my all time favorite poet is Iain S Thomas. I actually envision a body of work of mine, based off of the words in his work. Coming soon… dun dun dun

I mean, did you read that? WOW

Ok, enough rambling from me. If you read my blogs or follow me on Twitter or Instagram, you probably already know a lot about me and my likes. ( Coffee, guns, knives, film, tattoos, vans, Defender 110s- Lord Help me) but what do you want to know more of? I would love to connect with you and answer your questions. About anything. So if you wanna know me better, ask away. Lets use this time to be productive and grow.

J

A shot of our packs from our last family hike.

The family in Cozumel, Mexico- That Chaco life though

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

Canon EOS RP and High Speed Sync- Short Entry

The EOS RP and Good X2T trigger

Hey and thanks for stoping by. If you are reading this you probably fall in to 2 categories but regardless as to why, I am glad to have you. I mad a quick Youtube video today and thought I would write down my thoughts and the process to shoot your Canon Eos RP in High Speed Synch. I will assume that if you have found this via a Google search that you already know what HSS is but just in case, it basically is the process of shooting your camera with flash OVER the factory flash sync shutter speed. On the Eos RP this is 1/180 of a second. So that means, anytime I shoot flash I have to shoot at ISO 100 ( depending on the ambient light I want to allow ), a shutter speed as the above mentioned 1/180th of a second, which leaves my aperture around F9-F11. I don’t mind this generally, as a sharp image makes me very happy. Often though, I prefer that dreamy out of focus area behind my subject, thus needing to shoot a faster shutter speed, and smaller aperture. I use the Canon 35L series lens that opens up to F1.4 and sometimes I just want to shoot wide open. That means my shutter speed needs to be much faster, say 1/1000th of a second for example. In the video below I show you exactly how to get your EOS RP to shoot HSS as it will not from factory. I hope this helps and please feel free to share this with anyone you think might be interested or find this information of value. Thats all for today, but I hope you find joy in whatever your doing while reading this.

Jeremy

Colby Senior Portraits

As we are just 3 months into 2020, I can say for the first time in a very long time that I am pleased with my work. I am pleased with the fact that my artistic vision is pushing past my insecurities. I am so humbled that my work is being printed and shared. That alone will mean this calendar year is a success as far as my work is considered. That also means, I only have to create bigger goals starting now. I am very blessed to work with some of the most amazing people in different settings. I have made so many friends because of my photography, and vise versa, meaning I have friends that have also allowed me to capture moments for them, and their families. This post is about that specifically.  I had the pleasure of shooting some of my favorite session this weekend, a senior session, for my friend Betty. Her son is soon to graduate and I was honored to be asked, and even more so to have been apart of this milestone for her son Colby. 

Rocking his Dads belt buckle for his session.

I am persistent when getting to work with high school seniors. I know its not always comfortable to have your photo taken. I know that 17-18 years of age can be a difficult time for some. I always want to make our sessions relaxed but more importantly I need them to be genuine. Genuine to the individual. I want to capture them for who they are, not how the parents want them to look. I know this is a touchy area since parents are paying for the session but I need to capture the real personality. Lucky for my people, I am pretty laid back but also have a vision once I have spent a few minutes getting to know them. Colby is a great young man from where I stand, and even though guys tend to be a little more rigid in front of the camera, it wasn’t long before he was relaxed enough to make some amazing images. I will start below with my favorites, and then share more than usual as well. I never want to over share but I think its time I turn off some of the nagging voices in my head and just create. Whatever that looks like to me. So lets toss our mullets in the wind and Let Freedom Ring. ‘Merica

Make sure and scroll through those images of the Mullet in the wind HAHA.

Snow Day 2020

Home will always be here..

Well, its been awhile. I apologize for the long silence on my end but many of you know that life has been different for my family and I for a few months. I often enjoy writing here as a way to express my thoughts and get some stuff out and out of my head, but I just haven’t had the words of late. I have been trying to get out and explore more and more as time allows and I always have at least 1 or 3 cameras with me. I have been thinking a lot of late, and I realize how little I actually share my work with, well anyone. I post randomly from time to time and while I appreciate those of you that comment, and like all of this images, I also feel like I have much more to share. Maybe this is a selfish idea on my part, but I started the new year with a challenge to myself. I didn’t tell anyone about this but I am happy to say I set a goal and I crushed it. That goal was simply to post a new photo every day for 1 month. The month of January came and I didn’t miss a single day, and the response was wonderful. I have sold more prints in this calendar year than any other 3 years combined. This makes my heart extremely full. I love to capture the world as I see it, and then to have anyone ( in this case, several someones ) wanting to purchase a copy to display for themselves, well its humbling. So yes any image I post, unless of a model or person, is available for print. Any size and any format is available. I am planning on printing more and to have readily available and my goal has been but is seeming more needed, and that is to own my own printer. I want to be able to print anytime, for anyone and proof my images for myself. I recently posted a new print for sale and am glad to say its going to a friend of my that I consider family. We call him YOMO and he is an incredible person. So Yomo, if you ever see this, I can’t tell you how happy I am this is going to you.

Ok.. back to why Im here writing today. To share more, and let you in just a little bit more. If you know me at all, you know I grew up in Roan Mountain, Tennessee and while I didn’t take advantage of its beauty then, I am trying to make up for now. So below are all of the images I felt worthy of keeping and sharing. I hope you enjoy and I love to hear from each and everyone of you reading this. Tell me if you have a favorite. Let me know if you think it makes sense to own my own printer at home. Most importantly, let me know where I should capture next! HERE WE GO

Atlas- aka my hiking buddy

I apologize for the watermark over the images. I am testing a new service thanks to my friend, Katy. I didn’t realize they were watermarked until I have finished the entry so.. please pardon the nuisance this once.

Changes are a comin’

This is a super short insert to just be forthcoming that my site is about to go for some cosmetic surgery. I feel like it is too busy at the moment so I intend to simplify the content here to hopefully create at much more user friendly experience. I hope that is is something that those of us in society that are over stimulated already can easily navigate and at the same time express my work and art in a way that is genuine to itself and to myself.

I also want to remind you, if your reading this, that any image I post here or our IGs are available for print. I am currently contemplating the purchase of a printer ( again ) to make prints readily available but will need to see if there is a desire for that from, well anyone but myself. I say this jokingly as I have been lucky enough to produce and sell 4 prints already this year. This seems so small but its such an accomplishment to me. I want my work to be seen, to be held but more importantly to be experienced. I want conversations started about my work. I want to be excited again. I want to shoot all the film, make all the prints, and do those things with and for you.

So, thank you for being here. Let me know either here or over at www.throatpunchpros.com what you want so see from me/ us.

We also are available for assignment work. Want a custom, one of a kind, one run print- we can do that to. Let’s talk about it.

J

Create When it hurts

Create when it hurts

This is Jeremy and I just wanted to write before the year ends, before the decade takes its final trip around the clock and remind you how amazing your work is. As creators it is very easy to get in these doubt filled corners of our mind while we try to please our clients, ourselves and all while trying to be true to our medium or art. That’s what art is though right? True expression of feelings, and ideas. Finding the way to make something that without you, never would exsist. Without your take on whatever the art is, it would simply still be a frame unexposed, a canvas left holding to itself in the cellophane wrapping, or the lyrics to a song that could influence someone else. 

Think about that for a minute. Who inspires you? Write it down. Now also write down why you are inspired by this. Now imagine how it has effected your life. You owe it to yourself and the world to share your experience as well. Make that thing that scares you to sleep loss. Make the thing that hurts because through pain is healing. You don’t have to share it with the masses but what if, just what if someone sees it and needs it? What if you become that light to someone else who is stumbling through their darkness. 

This may be the last blog entry of the year as many of you know my wonderful wife, Natasha was recently diagnosed with ovarian as well as uterine cancer. She has had 2 surgeries and begins chemo in a few weeks. She allowed myself and Wes to capture something very difficult, very personal, and very tender this week so that will have my attention over the holidays. I wrote this short insert because that’s what she did for me this week. Unknowingly , she inspired, she gave me courage, she reminded me how truly strong and wonderful she is. I hope any of my work has somehow inspired you this calendar year at least on some level. If I can say that happened, then 2019 was a success. I’m coming for 2020 and all the feels. Love each and everyone of you for the support and love. 

Jeremy

Me&K's

Mrs + Mrs

I love tacos! I mean seriously who doesn't love tacos? This post isn't about tacos but maybe I need to make a post just for them? Probably. No this is a special entry. This is a post for two special ladies who contacted me months ago thanks to my very good friend Jeremy Smith ( IG @whitehatstudios ) who was booked and sent them my way. This post is for Melissa and Kerstin, owners and operators of Me&Ks food truck in Johnson City, TN. If you like tacos, what are you waiting for.. follow them on IG and know where they are so you can tell them I sent you and order my favorite, Baja Chicken Tacos. Ok enough about food for now.

I was scrolling through my IG feed when a notification chimed, alerting me to a new DM. I check and it was from Me&Ks asking about my availability for their wedding day. I went into my normal response of questions about the day, to quickly realize they were considering getting married during the 2019 Pride Parade and wanted to know if I was able to capture something like that. Even though I had never shot a moving ceremony, I was immediately curious about the logistics of making it work. We exchanged a few messages and it was set! I was excited. At this point, I had not had the pleasure of eating at their food truck so the next week, I made it a priority to go by, introduce myself and exchange the love for small business. I knew immediately that I was going to have a great time as I had just met Melissa as she was working feverishly away making this amazing food. It wasn't long before she called over Kerstin to make the introductions complete. We talked off and off the months before the big day and as most weddings, plans changed. The wedding would now be held at Painted Acre Farms which was another bonus as I had yet to shoot here. The owners of this venue are amazing people and I truly hope to work with them many more times in the future. Go follow them and show some love too. Since the ceremony ( it was gorgeous btw ) would be the day before, the Pride Parade would just be the newlywed ladies sitting on the back of a Mercedes with the top down and having a blast. This is a wedding/event I will never forget being a part of. I had a hard time deciding what images to share but here are a few of my favorites from the 2 day event. As always be sure to click on the vendor name for a direct link to their social media.

Cake by Petite Sweets

This speaks for itself I believe…

Vendor Thanks

Venue: Painted Acre Farms

Cake: Petite Sweets

Melissas Tux: JOS A Banks

Kerstins Dress: Davids Bridal

Florals: Blue Door Barn Flowers

Music: Tom Peterson Band

Officiant: Ben Casteel

Bartender: Nathan from Chili’s

Food: FoodieFiction, Mae Mae, Me&Ks

Why do I create at all..

I often read other posts, and watch videos discussing the creative mind, and even though I rarely consider myself creative, I do create therefore a creator of sorts I must be. So the question is why do I make the things I make and take the chances I take? I am asking you as much as I am telling you. Maybe if I consider the things I took images of in the beginning it would make sure sense. So lets go back

In the beginning of my then hobby, I was working on a delivery truck and traveling all over and while doing so would notice amazing things along the drive/ride. Then cell phones where nowhere near what we carry in our pockets on a daily basis so I thought it would be interesting if I brought a camera along with me to capture this and that through out my days.  From solo trees on hillsides to water wheels, abandoned silos, and my favorite - an abandoned basketball goal in a field. The only common denominator they share is where they were. Every image I took was outside. Every single ONE.  This is still very prominent in the work I create and the work I long to create.  I love to evoke a feeling of wonder and what could be more wondrous than the world we live in? Every detail a creation in itself, and inspiring me to create the work that I am truly moved by. I have some ways to go to create the brand that allows me to pursue only sessions that I can be excited about. I still have so so many locations local me to capture and I’m ready to go. Who is going with? 

If you follow me at all you may have noticed this theme in my work. Not all of my work of course. Weddings are often indoors and in church’s but I am putting this out in the world. I only want to shoot outdoor weddings, preferably in locations that can inspire me and the adventurous elopement would be my overall #1 thing to capture, but I need to find my way in that market. Help a fella out lol

My inspiration today actually comes from a very good friend of mine. A lady who’s work I admire but not as much as I do her character. We share a lot of the same passions but I think our love for the outdoors is one of our strongest bonds. She posted images yesterday from my favorite place and creativity took over from there. Go give her a follow and tell her I sent you. She’s on all the social media’s but IG is easiest @_katysergent . Even as of writing this or finishing it up if I’m honest, my family and I are in Bryson City, NC. Today for my belated 40th birthday present, we rafted the Nantahala River. Chaco’s strapped, sunglasses glued to my face, and my favorite North Face hat and off we went. I am even setting here after our day of adventure, starring at a beautiful mountain top range just outside the window and I know this is the fuel for my work. This is where it starts and where it shall remain. Among the trees, fields, and streams we are very lucky to call home.

J

”In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks” - John Muir

Traveling Film Camera

Shot on Ektar 100

I have been so busy in 2019 that I have barely taken time to write anything about anything but that needs to stop. Not only do I enjoy writing, but I also find it therapeutic to a degree. While I have been working a lot, I have found a new podcast that I love called AnalogTalk. The entire series is about shooting film and all things film related. If you keep up with me either here, or any other social media you know my adoration for shooting film so this is right up my alley. I have shot more film in the last three weeks than I have all year and that makes me happy. Shooting film is a completely different process but it also pulls from a very different place in my creative space. That is a post and Youtube video all in itself. Speaking of, who follows me on youtube? Show of hands, or comments below, please.

Ok to the meat and potatoes of this post. I have not worked out every detail of how this will work but I am starting with friends of mine that I think will enjoy the project but also make it better as a whole. Enter the traveling film camera. This, unfortunately, is not an original idea to me but one I am running with none the less. I am going to choose one of my point and shoot 35mm cameras, load it with film and mail it off. I will create a private Facebook page for those involved so we can have a place to discuss the details further. If this is something you would enjoy helping me create and would enjoy being included please email me at - info@jeremygouge.com. Once the project starts the Facebook page will be where we discuss using the camera if needed, as well as who to mail it to next. That's the exciting part. I want to start by mailing it to a good friend of mine in Cookeville, TN and then he gets to choose who to mail it to next. He will add that person to the FB group as well. I am very excited to see what we produce collectively. Once the camera gets back into my possession, I will have the film developed and prints made. I also will either make a zine or book from the images. Anyone will be allowed to purchase a copy but those who helped me create it will have first dibs on a copy. I am also in the brainstorming process of creating a Patreon page for this project or other projects going forward. Depending on how well this goes, will determine the next issue. More details found on the private FB page but you have to email me for that information. :)

I am extremely pumped to get this project on its feet, as a personal project may be exactly what I need at the moment. So let's make it happen friends.

Your camera DOES matter!

What if I told you that the equipment you choose to wield actually has a direct impact on your final result? What if I told you there are tools that fit the user better than the one fits all concept? All the haters go ahead and jump to the comments and leave your opinion there. 

If you just happen to still be reading here is why I feel this way. Ok lets keep it simple.  You want to shoot some images of insects, so to do this you either need a macro lens or extension tube right? Or if you want to take photos of the moon you will need a zoom lens. What if I told you the same is true about cameras? Do I believe we can pick up any camera and make something memorable, absolutely yes, but having the camera that works the best FOR YOU will make your hit rate much higher on average.  You wont just grab any pair of shoes off of the shelf and hope they are comfortable and fit? So why do the same thing with a camera? Something that you could very well be holding and handling for hours. Wouldn’t it make more sense if that object felt great in your hand?  I am also a firm believer in making a camera work for you but if you can have a camera that you can operate seamlessly, will this not result in more confidence in the user, and thus that confidence projected to your client?  Don’t get me wrong there is no 1 camera for all. Wedding professionals, and sports shooters have different needs thus different tools are required. 

Ok now to play my own “devils advocate”, because I have said this many times in the past, the camera is simply a tool. And in the simplest form ,means I should be able to take any camera and make it work to my vision in theory but nothing is that simple. A painter doesn’t just grab a roller and paint a Mona Lisa. I know this is a very extreme example but I am willing to bet you knew exactly what I meant the second you read that sentence.  Having said that if you have read any of the past inserts or follow me on social media you understand my fascination with all things Film. I love how simple it is, and how genuine every frame developed becomes. We can shoot and pray in the digital realm but not while shooting film if we want the best results. Shooting film is methodical, or romantic in a sense to me but would I pick up one of my film cameras to shoot sports, absolutely not.   

I am  not writing this to convince you to sell everything you own and start over, not by any means. I have came to a crossroads in my approach to my work and the equipment I use. I adore holding and shooting all things FujiFilm and have for a few years now. Even writing this I am sleepless contemplating my choices. I have considered staying with Fuji and adding a newer camera body but I am at a point where my final images aren’t meeting my vision while shooting Fuji and that hurts to say out loud.  So the past 2 weeks I have tried several cameras to see what feels right in my hand, but more importantly what produces a final image like the one playing in my mind. I have shot a Canon 5diii and coming from a Canon background I thought this might be the correct choice especially since we are adding video to our services. I shot it for a few days but came away unimpressed. Don’t get me wrong, it is an amazing camera with amazing image quality but it wasn’t “RIGHT” for me. I also shot a Nikon d810 and I had never even pressed a shutter on a Nikon camera before but  I wanted to rule out all options to make sure it wasn’t just me, and not my camera being the issue. To my utter surprise, the RAW images from this camera were stunning. Not in comparison to anything else but in line with my vision for my work. Loving my Ricoh GRii files so much I even considered the new Pentax FF line but I think the only Pentax for me is my 645n and 120 film :)

The only other viable option to me and my rationale ( which can be questioned regularly lol ) was another Sony mirrorless body. I have owned the a7ii prior and did enjoy it very much but was lucky to stumble across a YouTube video comparing the new Nikon Z6 and Sony A7iii and they were gracious enough to include raw files. I was quick to download them both and edit the way I love to edit and to see how it pans out. To my surprise the Nikon files were my favorite once again. The Sony was not far behind but I found the dynamic range much more suited to my shooting style from the Nikon camera for a second time. This and the fact that I love shooting off camera flash  once again has me leaning toward a Nikon setup. So at the end of the day especially if you are new to photography and wanting to learn more, find a camera that feels right in your hand, offers the features you need ( Not always want )and you can bend to meet your artistic vision. I would love to know your opinion but more importantly I would love to hear what works best for you!

Lastly here is a link to his video mentioned above to not get lost in my thought process. VIDEO

First Hike of 2019!

Atlas soaking up the magnitude of the waterfall.

Today just happens to be Monday the 7th of January and that is only important because it marks the first hike of the year for us. Today is the last day of Christmas break for Atlas and Austin while Jaryn had to start back last week. Atlas and I decided to take advantage of the uncommon warm weather and our itch for adventure and put left foot over right in nature. His growing adoration for hiking and exploring excites me and I love watching him see the world for himself. We wanted to discover somewhere new to us so after a few minutes of searching, we landed on Sills Branch Falls. We packed our bags, his with waters, snacks, his GoPro, and first aid kit; mine with all things camera related and we were off. The directions we used were terrible and led us to the end of Bumpus Cove in Erwin, TN. I was quick to grab my phone and dig unit I found another site with better descriptive directions. It took us longer than we preferred but it was nice to have the morning on the road with Atlas, singing songs and asking questions. This hike is quick and easy. Only has one real climb and even it was short and sweet. You will find yourself at a fork in the trail just before this climb where you bare left, and cross a small stream and up you go. Once you top the hill, you are rewarded by a magical waterfall. The canyon walls are almost round cut out above the fall walls and feels so other-worldly. The walk is short, not even a mile in according to my Apple watch. Almost every step you take from the parking lot at the trail head ( left side of the road ) is accompanied by the melody of the stream that flows from the feet of the waterfall above.

A rare selfie with my hiking buddy. Hes growing up to quickly.

We made our way pretty quickly to the top where we had our snacks that Atlas prepared. We then took some time to enjoy the spoils of our short walk among the trees. I took photos as this is what I do, and he explored our surroundings. I brought the Pentax 645n and shot the last of the pre loaded Ilford Hp5 BW film. I also finished up a roll of 35mm film in the Minolta. The only digital shots I took are below and all shot on my Ricoh GRii. I have a few on the phone as well but I rarely share those the same way.

Last shoot of 2018

Well its been a few months since I have made the time to come and write and while I want to say something poetic, like this is the year for more of this or that, I prefer to stay quite and grind. I was lucky enough that my great friend John was in town over the weekend, although not for a good reason, but we took the advantage to get together. John has grown an interest in photography which is awesome for me, because he’s one more person I can talk shop with now. He asked if I would be interested in getting up early on his last day in Johnson City and catch sunrise with him and our cameras. Long story short, Atlas and I woke at 5 am and headed out to get John. We decided to try to find a spot on Watauga Lake in Hampton. I chose this spot hoping to give us the view we needed. It was a cold start but a beautiful morning was awaking before us.

Before the break of day, we spent some time in the dark, watching the waves of the lake crash over the parking lot as water was extremely high. I was happy to find this street light to use to paint the scene before the sky was turned to fire! Sunrise is always such a peaceful and magical moment. It can be such a powerful moment if you allow it to be and surrender to what your gifted. No devices, no distractions. Only patience and acceptance. You clearly know by now that the camera’s were out but when you are not distracted by the settings and menus because you are accustom to where everything is, this allows you to be more present than ever before.

s always, I will end this with more and more photos. I also want to let everyone know that the Youtube channel is about to get an edition. A challenge to start off the new year! A huge thank you to everyone who followed along last year and to “Tater” aka John for being so supportive and just around great example to society. If your on IG check him out @thebearded_mover

Fall Break Adventures

Chimney Rock, North Carolina

Life never hesitates to throw complications and we have two choices. We can roll over and hope it passes soon, or we step up and push threw. This summer has had many highs and lows but so far, this fall break with Natasha and the boys, has been one of my favorite adventures yet! We love to hike as a family, and I long to complete the entire AT someday. This love for nature, and wonder I am blessed to share with my family, so when we stated talking and planning our trip it only made sense to include a trip outside. Natasha and I have backpacked alone, and I have taken Jaryn on a one night trip as well, but Austin and Atlas had never been. More importantly we have never been all together, so it was time to change that. Upon lots of options weighed, tents borrowed ( thanks Simerly ), we had a plan. We decided to hike the Appalachian Trail from Indian Grave Gap, to Uncle Johnny’s Hostile in Erwin. Speaking of Uncle Johnny’s this is were we started our adventure. We hired them to shuttle us up to the trail head. We ended up hiking in to the shelter which was a double decker beauty and was about 4.2 miles in. The boys did incredible, considering the weather was dreary and they were toting their own bags and belongings for the trip. Once we found the shelter we quickly went to work setting up camp for dinner, and searching for dry firewood. An hour later, we have fire, and the jet boil was up and running cooking a much needed hot meal for the day. We were greeted by a Thru Hiker names Patrick, his trail name I unfortunately cant recall as of writing this, and was happy to share the space. He is headed South to Georgia from his home town in PA. Day 2 was much nicer to hike and we easily completed the 4.1 miles out and to our car. We quickly loaded up Valak and grabbed some lunch. Then our adventure continued to Hickory Nut Gap, North Carolina were we planned to visit Hickory Nut Falls, and Chimney Rock State Park. The weather was dark, and power lines were down, and after some driving around we found a place to stay for the rest of the week. The boys were quick to hit up the arcade were we played way to much air hockey per Atlas’ request. Jaryn and Austin shot pool and the pinball machine was a classic. The small town was very close to being flooded and washed away but luckily it was only a scare. We had some hick up’s but we are tough and unified so on the last day we took the boys to the Park for the views and Waterfalls. The rest you can see below. I didn’t take a camera on this trip so everything is a cell phone shot and I feel that needs to be stated. Thanks for reading

PS. Atlas even pulled a tooth on this trip as seen in the photo below, and I apologize for how random some images fell.

Boone NC with Bex Sunglasses

So as I have happily mentioned many times, I love sunglasses. It might be the only thing I truly collect. So when the opportunity presented itself to work with a new company out of Las Vegas, NV called Bex Sunglasses, I was pumped. I had worked with the newly sponsored model, Miss Olivia prior and when they asked who she preferred to use, well I was lucky enough to be that person.  After speaking with the company over the phone and introducing myself a plan was in motion. I spoke to them about their vision and how I can accommodate it but stay true to who I am and how I work. They were quick to mention I am only 1 of 3 photographers ever to work with them which I take as a compliment in itself. After talking with Olivia and Lorie ( her mom ) we had a decision to meet in Boone, NC to give them an urban look for our first outing. I mentioned it to Wes, and he was quick to agree to join us for the session. This was cool for me for a few reasons. One he has had a session with me in the past but has never really seen my work on the other side of the lens, and I was happy to have the company for the long ride over and back. We met the ladies at Mast General store and we were off.  Unfortunately, I can't share the images from the session as they haven't seen them yet but trust me when I say, I'm excited about how well it went. The Fuji Xpro2 did exactly what I needed it to as it always does.  We spent the better part of 2 hours walking around downtown trying to keep it casual, unposed, and genuine. The company also voiced branching out to the outdoors sports world ( yes please ) so we were also on alert for anything that may tie those together. Unfortunately, the climbing wall I envisioned was closed, but we had about 60 seconds inside Magic Cycle after hours to try a few shots. I admit those will not make the cut. I felt like we were imposing and rushed more than I should have to not wear out our welcome. We used any and everything we could think of or stumble upon. I have 1 more session to knock out prior to starting in on these but then its on. I guess you will have to follow us on IG @throatpunchproductions and follow them @bexsunglasses to see Olivia rocking their gear! Until then, head up and keep clicking that shutter button.
P.S. Coming soon to IG is images from another sunglass company that has reached out to us called @southernmostshades as well as some incredible spices ( for you foodies ) from @thespicebeast. 
 

Sunday Small Talk

Its currently Sunday, August 5th and I am waiting on my friend /client to show up for our session and thought I would take the time to write and catch up. I have been beyond busy in the last month or so and beyond grateful for that and August is looking to be my busiest month to date. I say that to remind anyone wanting a session, that there are only 4 months left in the calendar year. I'm saying that because I am shooting today, and every day next weekend. Next weekend I will be in Elizabethton, Grayson Highlands VA, Kingsport, and one session yet to determine location.   That is just Friday - Sunday btw. I was this busy last weekend shooting Sat, Sun, and Monday and have edited and delivered all of those except one. ( soon, very soon ) Tomorrow 3 of the 4 kids have their first day back at school and a busy week of normal life as a parent and small business owner. 
I am writing today though to also discuss some opportunities that we over at Throat Punch Productions have coming up. Last weekend, while I was busting my ass and driving all over the place so, was Wes. He represented us by driving to Nashville and shooting a video for Allen for the 2018 NPC Tennesee State Show. You should go and check that out now, right HERE. 
He also made the intro video that I recently posted to my IG. We are currently in the works to shoot for a new company out of New York called SpiceBeast, a new sunglass company called SouthernMost Shades, and my friend/ model Olivia also hooked me up to shoot her new campaign with Bex Sunglasses! It's taking some time, some sleepless nights, and lots of work but we are slowly starting to move forward. We are starting to put our stamp on the market. Keeping this one short, but remember to book your session while there is still some time to do so and see how we separate ourselves from the masses. We love collaborating, so if you are someone wanting to work with us, please let us know. We are still taking on some small business to capture their product for advertising purposes as well. What are you waiting on? This is your sign, this is us saying HEY, let's create something together. You get one shot at this life, let's live it up and remember those times!
Go check out our updated site at www.throatpunchpros.com and let us know what you like, and what you would prefer to see differently. 

All images are samples and teasers from the session I shot after writing this 2 days ago!
 

Cant let big sis have all the fun! lol

I love how much this feels like film