Pencil Sharpener

This old sharpener sat gathering dust in an abandon school in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The window light struck this old rusting sharpener in such a way to strike my interest as I explored the abandon and trashed school rooms. Its amazing how fast a place can decay when it is no longer inhabited. The walls were covered with graffiti and dirt. Books, chairs and desks were just left to sit and rot away. 

Kimmel Center

The Kimmel Center for the Preforming Arts is located on Broad St in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. This building is filled with stunning architectural designs and fine details which makes all the difference. The structure is home to the Philadelphia Orchestra and host numerous other performers from jazz, pop and classical musicians. 

Abandon Factory

This is an abandon factory located in philadelphia. It was an ice cold winter evening when I headed up here to photograph the building. Undisturbed from people, the snow lay on the ground blowing in through the broken windows. The windows cast colorful reflections on the ceiling and walls adding a dramatic effect to the image. 

Fireman

This spot news opportunity happened right out side my apartment window in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I heard a pop and an explosion outside, which seemed to spontaneously catch a dumpster on fire. Neighbors started to gather as the firemen arrived at the scene. I photographed this fireman right as he became engulfed by the thick yellow smoke in his haste to extinguish the fire.  

On Location

These two images are part of a model portfolio I did of Taylor. The full length photograph  was shot at a Philadelphia train station. The lighting source used for this photograph was a bounce flash. The head shot was taken along a street up against a weathered telephone pole. For the head shot a reflector was used as the lighting source to bounce light back in to the models face. 

Bob Golding

Today Bob Golding, or Bobby G. as he is know to many, will be remembered and honored at a memorial held at Antonelli Institute. Bobby G. was a legendary photographer, an outstanding instructor, a mentor and a grandfather figure to many Antonelli students. I am honored and blessed to have gotten to know him. He has inspired and taught me so much. You are remembered and missed by many. Rest in peace Bobby G. 

Necklace

I used a model to show off the necklace’s style and form. I then decided to use selective color to emphasize the color of the stone against the model’s arm. With the hand and arm being black and white it almost feels as if it is a mannequin's hand which also allows you to easily see the product. 

Manayunk Church

Churches around the world all have very different architectural styles. Some have a simple design while others may be an elaborate masterpiece. This photograph is of the St.John Baptist Church in Manayunk, PA. The church is a large stone building which is beautiful and elaborate inside with a cathedral ceiling and stain glass windows. The church resides in a small neighborhood of Philadelphia which is located along the Schuylkill River. Manayunk is known for its unique shops and local restaurants. Many visitors enjoy strolling the streets of this small urban town with the historical feel. 

New Year's Eve!

Happy New Year's Eve! May the end of 2011 lead you into a great 2012.  May this new year bring many opportunities your way to explore every joy of life. May your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm turning all your dreams into reality and all your efforts into great achievements. 

Portrait

This photograph was taken for an assignment at Antonelli Institute for Art and Photography. The model is Kim Gehr, her hair and make-up was done by Alisha LeDonne both of which are fellow students, friends, and photographers. This particular image was shot in our apartment living room with Alien Bee strobes. The assignment required the use of four strobes, there is a background light, a fill light, a main light, and a bounce light to add a little more pop to the image. This finale image was created after several attempts; I felt that the portrait needed another element to catch the viewers’ attention so I added the fall leaves to the models hair.

Winter Wonderland

Snow, ice, and the crispness that comes with freezing temperatures can add a new dimension to your photos. With Christmas right around the corner the hopes for a white Christmas are high.  This photograph was taken in Philadelphia last winter after one of the several big snow storms that were there. This image tied for second place in a winter photography competition last year. 

Eastern State Penitentiary

Eastern State Penitentiary was designed by John Haviland and opened in 1829 and closed in 1971. Today the penitentiary is a preserved landmark located in Philadelphia, Pa and is open year-round to visitors. The Eastern State Penitentiary was once one of the most famous and expensive prisons housing more then 300 inmates. Today it stands in ruin, a haunting world of crumbling cellblocks and empty guard towers. It is known for its architecture and strict discipline. Some of Americas most notorious criminals were held in the cells. Al Capone found himself behind the prison walls for about a year.