Kegan Rushing, Stylist - Alter Ego Salon - Raleigh, NC

I like watching other artists work. I also like to photograph them when they’re in the zone. Recently I had the pleasure to shoot Kegan Rushing, a stylist who works at Alter Ego Salon in Raleigh, while he cut my wife Elizabeth’s hair.

A bird lands on a chimney in Old Montreal, QB, Canada (click to view larger)

Stephen Aubuchon, one of my closest friends and photography mentor, moved back home to Montreal after working in the US for over 30 years. We drove his belongings and Merle the Maine Coon cat from Raleigh to Montreal last weekend in a 26 foot rental truck. The three day drive was mostly uneventful and somewhat scenic, as we avoided the toll roads.

I had a couple days to spend with Stephen exploring downtown Montreal before my flight back to Raleigh. We ate well (smoked meat rules), drank well, and somehow failed to take as many photos as we thought we would. The one above is my favorite so far. I thought it was a fitting tribute to Stephen finally coming home to roost (note the little bird landing on the chimney).

Congratulations to you both. The ceremony and reception were over the top as expected. A beautiful afternoon and evening with friends and family — I enjoyed the privilege of being there to capture it all for you.

Galen & Cynthia

Get you mind out of the gutter. The benefits I speak of are inspiration and example.

Our friends Cynthia and Galen own a very successful business that we’ve watch them build over the years. It started small and they have nurtured it (read busted ass) into a thriving and vibrant enterprise. I’m going to use their example of hard work, values and friendship as inspiration in the new year to "nurture" my photography business to new levels in 2008.

Happy New Year everyone!

Our friends Michael and Ariel were married today. They had an intimate wedding/dinner/party at Cafe Luna in Raleigh, North Carolina among close friends and family. It was one of the best weddings I’ve ever attended. Though I don’t normally shoot weddings, I was honored to shoot this one. This photo was taken minutes before the ceremony.

Sean Johnson a.k.a DJ Old School

My friend Sean Johnson died in a car/truck accident Tuesday morning (June 20, 2005). Some people knew him as DJ Old School. He was a big personality in the small town of Raleigh, NC. He will surely be missed by the people whose lives he touched, and often made better. We’ll miss your ever-present smile and persistent good will. Rest in peace my brother.

photo by Liz Winfrey, Raleigh, NC