This is a 30-second “trailer” for a local organization called the Blue Ribbon Commission. The purpose of this spot is to build interest and drive traffic to the new BRC web site www.brcyez.org where the viewer can check out the rest of the story.
Boston MA
We used to live in the city and vacation at the beach. Now it’s the other way around. This summer, Katy and I headed up to Boston for a welcome getaway while Lucy had an equally terrific time at Grandma Camp. With temps in the 70’s and 80’s, it was a nice break from August in the South. We took a day trip to Cape Cod and saw some humpback whales on the ferry ride over. Of course I took some pictures while we were there. If only I’d thought to capture those funny yankee accents. To see more images visit http://tinyurl.com/3rualuk
“She’s Not My Sister”
The Gospel Music Channel in Atlanta hired me to photograph the “gallery” and the “unit” for an upcoming made-for-TV play. (Those are film-speak words for the poster and a portion of the live action.) Filmed here in Wilmington by local production company Swirl Films, the mostly African-American play featured some big names in Hollywood including Tony Grant, Christian Keyes and Jazmin Lewis. Everyone was very cool, and despite having only a few minutes with each actor, we captured several frames in various poses. The final poster was designed by another company.
The Boss
Coldwell Banker Commercial contacted me to photograph some agents, including the boss, for a website upgrade. Rather than the typical conference room location , I suggested a large building with lots of natural light. We wound up in downtown Wilmington’s brand-new convention center. It’s a beautiful, light-filled space located on the historic Cape Fear River. The agents were a bit nervous at first, but after a while we settled into a nice rhythm. Grayson Powell, the boss, added some levity by joking around. Everyone seemed pleased with their images and we are now negotiating shooting more of their team.
In the Garden with Greta
I was very happy when a friend asked me to photograph her daughter. She’s a gorgeous little girl and a little shy. So I suggested we go for a walk through the Arboretum here in town. It’s a popular location for photographers, but that morning we had the place all to ourselves. Greta wasn’t afraid of the camera at all. In fact, sometimes I felt like she was looking right through it. Her mom said that I captured her true essence. I can’t think of a better compliment than that.
Ziabird
For the June cover of Focus on the Coast, I had the pleasure of working with Lynn Manock, owner of local boutique Ziabird, and with Morvil Design. It was nice to escape the heat and get back into the studio. Lynn pulled out all the stops with professional hair and makeup. Although the layout called for a tight portrait, I encouraged her to consider the dress choice because I knew even the shoulder strap would enhance the shot. After securing the cover, we pulled back and captured more images, including the accessories Ziabird is famous for. Morvil Design then added their touch with some perfectly placed graphics. Credits include: Model: Kristen Smith Hair: Jessica Corbett Makeup: Regan Brown Art Direction: Maria Hamilton Creative Direction: Jeff Morvil
Please Fasten Your Seatbelts
Award-winning cinematographer Matt Davis (no relation) with Wilmington’s own Life Stage Films had an interesting shoot the other day. After hiring Matt to produce her wedding video, his client thought it would be cool to get some aerials of her beach event. So I suggested that he bring me along to document this exciting excursion. Now I’ve flown in small planes before, but not a helicopter. Before I knew what was happening we were cruising just a few hundred feet over the Atlantic. The pilot placed Matt exactly where he needed to be to secure the clips. I shot stills the entire time. The lack of doors added an element of danger, but having to focus on my job really helped with the butterflies in my stomach. Thanks to Executive Helicopters for a smooth flight!
SIDS Is More Dangerous Than You Think
Every once in a while you get a chance to concept and shoot a great idea for a great cause. This spring, the NC Healthy Start Foundation gave me that opportunity. The message about infant safe sleep hasn’t changed in years, so they came to me looking for a fresh way to catch viewers’ attention and inform them about the dangers of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. I presented a few ideas, and focus groups confirmed that the most compelling concept was the best approach. So we moved forward with production of “Danger.” My clients gave me an unbelievable amount of creative freedom. And I didn’t take that trust lightly. Note: No babies were harmed during the making of this spot. In fact, not one of them even cried. 🙂 Danger starts airing in selected markets in North Carolina April 11th.
Disco Dazed
What do you get when you cross CDP with stylist Jess James, a colorful roller rink and a ’70s inspired wardrobe? Answer: Disco Dazed! I had just attended a birthday party for my daughter’s friend at Scooters, a local skate rink, when the editor for Focus on the Coast called and said she wanted a retro theme for their spring fashion spread. My reply: “I’ve got a place you’ve gotta see, complete with neon and a disco ball.” Gretchen, Rachel, Oliver and I had a blast, or should I say, “groovy time, man!”
Cover Shoot for Isabella Grape
For the April issue of Focus on the Coast, I was asked to photograph the cover and an inside spread. The subject: a young lady in some gorgeous gowns. The location: Wilmington’s landmark Bellamy Mansion. I suggested we capture the cover shot from across the street so we could get both Rachel (our model) and the Bellamy (a very large house) in the picture. Client Isabella Grape was thrilled with the images. Another good day on location in sunny Wilmington! Special thanks to Al Clyburn for location access and to FOTC designer Garry Graham.
