For just over 20 years now, I’ve walked on this professional photographer’s road. This winding road has been full of wonderful moments, chance encounters, and interesting adventure. If we've met, you probably noticed that I enjoy meeting people. Hearing stories. Building relationships.
Beginning my career as a wedding photographer connected me to so many amazing people, many of whom do equally amazing things. Turns out, my style and personality partnered me with a crazy number of creatives for their nuptials. As the official 3rd-wheel-storyteller for these couples, I was able to form a strong bond and, oftentimes, develop a professional relationship past their big day. The strength of this foundation for my career cannot be overstated. There are not many days that pass where I don't have an exchange with a past wedding client. Some connect for a family portrait, others for a commercial gig. Many have become steadfast friends.
In 2013, I decided to step away from wedding photography to take a new road. Concentrating on taking back my weekends for my family and focusing on developing my commercial & corporate photography portfolio. The result has been amazing. We have created a new foundation and direction for our work for the next 20 years. Each year expanding our creative offerings to our loyal clients. Incorporating video production has become a larger part of our future. This has thrilled us on so many levels. We are storytellers with a knack for the smart, impactful message. Offering clients, whose goals we know so well, both video and stills is a win-win for everyone.
In early 2018, thanks to the ASMP, I invested in a 3 day workshop to better understand my craft. This was icing on the cake. An "Aha!" moment. Unlocking personal projects which have been sitting in the back of my head, and in some cases in old negative sleeves, for too long. Sometimes you have to invest in yourself to move on a clearer path. Be on the lookout as we unveil my personal projects on a more regular basis.
There are many to thank for helping guide me along the way. Kind of impossible to thank you all. But know this, if we've connected at some point along the way, I appreciate you and the impact you've had on us along the way.
Clients. Thank you for allowing CGP to be your visual ambassador on your journey into your future. The ride has been blast. We are so looking forward to continuing with you on your road.
Professionally, Steven E Gross gets a tip of the hat for opening my mind to photographing weddings as an art. Paul Elledge a nod for opening the vault to my personal projects. Each of these artists' skill & generosity have inspired me in so many ways. To all the assistants and partners who've been with us over the years, I thank you. Our work today is better because of you.
And finally, to my family. Chelsea, you've been such an incredible, supportive partner to this scatterbrained, self-employed, bald, creative soul. A rock. I'm grateful on so many levels that you picked up that phone in 1992, and looking forward to continuing our dance on this road. Boys, it's only recently that I'm realizing how fast your little legs had to walk in your early years to keep up with my long legs when we walked down any road. You've each inspired me in more ways than you can know. Keep working hard as you navigate your roads. To my large family, I love you. The support you've provided my creativity from my earliest memory is immeasurable. Sisters, thanks for teaching this man to love dancing. Oh, and Mom, thanks for providing me with my most valuable tools which I use every day. My ability to connect & make a person feel comfortable. Kind of important for a people photographer.
The road of these first 20 years has been amazing to reflect upon. The next 20 is wonderful to envision. This should be a special and enjoyable journey. We are excited to walk with you. Lets go.
Cheers,
