How many times have you had a promising conversation started with a potential client, only for them to simply stop responding to you, never completing a booking? It is a very frustrating but also very common experience. This helpful video tutorial shares some useful advice and techniques to decrease that ghosting rate and land more clients. 

Coming to you from Chelsea Nicole Photography, this excellent video tutorial will help you increase your booking rate with clients. No doubt, this is a very frustrating experience, and because you are being ghosted, it can be hard to figure out why it is happening. I went through this for a year or so, and I vastly decreased my ghosting rate when I followed some of the advice mentioned in the video, namely, reducing as many friction points in the process as possible. For example, instead of asking people to share their schedule with me and going back and forth on booking a consultation, I started including an automatic booking link that synced with my calendar and allowed the potential client to simply select and instantly confirm a time to speak with me, with all contact info going out in the confirmation email. Not only does it reduce the amount of work the client has to do, it also make the process look much more professional. Check out the video above for the full rundown.

Abstract landscape photography offers a unique opportunity to explore the world around us in a completely different way. By focusing on patterns, shapes, and textures, we can discover unseen worlds in even the most mundane places.

Although this style of photography can seem a little daunting, I am going to break down six tips that have helped me along my abstract photography journey.

Tip 1: Look Around

While it may seem like a simple tip, it’s often overlooked by photographers when exploring new locations. Instead of solely focusing on the grand vistas or the prominent subjects in the distance, take a moment to look around you. You might be surprised to find fascinating abstract patterns and textures in the most unexpected places, even right beneath your feet.

Pay attention to your surroundings and don’t be afraid to get close to the ground to capture the intricate details, just be mindful of where you step. For example, I was able to capture stunning sand patterns created by the natural ebb and flow of the tides.

Tip 2: Flatten Your Plane of Focus

To emphasize patterns, shapes, and textures in your photographs, try creating a 2D look for your scene. This technique simplifies the composition and gives your image an abstract feel. One way to achieve this effect is by shooting straight down with a wide or mid-range lens.

Alternatively, if your subject is a vertical object such as a tree or rock wall, try to keep your camera parallel to it. This approach allows you to capture a perfectly focused image at F16 without needing to use focus stacking. However, if the ground or wall is not entirely flat, you may need to use focus stacking to ensure your image is fully in focus from top to bottom.

Always take multiple frames at different focal points to ensure you have a range of options to work with. Even if you don’t require additional frames, it’s always beneficial to have them available in case you need to enhance the focus of the scene from top to bottom later on.

Tip 3: Work with Your Conditions instead of Against Them.

Ah, the age-old debate of weather conditions in landscape photography — it’s a topic we often focus on too much. The beauty of abstract or intimate landscape photography is that you can capture stunning shots under any weather condition. It all depends on the subject and what you want to highlight.

For instance, when I was shooting at the beach, I started with beautiful diffused light that gave the landscape a soft look. Suddenly, the sun broke through the clouds and produced incredible golden light. I decided to capture both and loved comparing the two shots.

If you’re shooting on a clear sunny day and want to avoid harsh shadows, look for scenes in the shade or create your own shade with a photo reflector or even yourself. It may sound absurd, but I have shot mud tiles in the desert, focusing on a small patch and using my shadow as diffusion. Surprisingly, the photo turned out pretty good.

Even if you’re on the coast and think that a clear day wouldn’t work with harsh light, specular details reflecting off the sand and water can create mesmerizing results. So don’t let the weather stop you from capturing great shots. If you’re determined enough, you’ll always find something interesting to shoot.

Tip 4: Try Using a Polarizer.

The transformative power of a polarizer on a scene is truly incredible. It can completely change the way reflections appear, offering a whole new perspective. Take a look at these two abstract photos side-by-side, with one using a polarizer and the other without.

You can see the stark difference it can make. If you’re heading out to shoot on the coast or in a forest, make sure to pack a polarizer in your bag and experiment with it. You never know what kind of beautiful images you might capture.

Tip 5: Create a Story.

Creating great abstract photography is all about focusing on shapes and patterns, looking for repetition in nature and interesting color patterns. Sometimes, that can feel a little too abstract (forgive the pun). But fear not! One technique that can help you create interesting abstract work is to tell practical stories through your images, thinking of the shapes as something completely different from what they are. For example, in the photos below, I see not just sand patterns or mud, but the faces of creatures, an aerial perspective of sand dunes, and even wild animals.

This not only gives more context to the photo than just saying, “Oh, look, some shapes and colors,” but also makes the hunt for these photos more fun. So, next time you want to shoot abstracts, try this technique and see what interesting stories you can create.

Tip 6: Capture the Things You Like, Exclude the Thing You Don’t.

Don’t feel like you need to go to the most awe-inspiring locations to create stunning abstract photography. You can find beauty and intrigue in the everyday world around you. The key is to have fun and focus on capturing things that pique your interest. When you’re looking for patterns and shapes, ask yourself, “Do I like this?”

If the answer is yes, then also ask yourself why you feel that way. Once you’ve taken your shot, take the time to carefully edit out any elements that detract from the interestingness of your image. This may mean cropping out empty space, removing distracting objects at the edges, or adjusting the composition to eliminate converging lines. Remember, the goal is to create a composition that is captivating and has visual flow.

Abstract landscape photography is an excellent way to explore the world around us in a completely different way. By focusing on patterns, shapes, and textures, we can discover unseen worlds in even the most mundane places. I really hope these six tips help you and thanks so much for reading!

About the Author: Michael Shainblum is a photographer, filmmaker, and educator based in San Francisco, California. He has been working professionally as a photographer and filmmaker for 17 years since the age of 16. He has been commissioned by clients such as Disney, Nike, Samsung, Apple, and Google. He also shares his knowledge via his Youtube Channel, Instagram, and workshops.

“Cuban Repair Shop”
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American documentary photographer Michael Chinnici is in love with Cuba. He began visiting the country once travel restrictions eased and he hasn’t looked back since. Vanishing Cuba is his look at the “soul of Cuba” through evocative photographs of the country’s people and places. This large-format coffee table book features over 300 images from his first 24 trips to the island nation and is available in three special editions.

Chinnici’s powerful visuals are accompanied by stories in English and Spanish to help guide the narrative. Many of these stories are told by the Cubans who have created strong bonds with the New York-based photographer. And together, they are helping tell a story of Cuba’s past, present, and future.

From intimate portraits to landscapes to candid moments on the street, Vanishing Cuba is a collection that speaks to the heart. Turning the pages, it’s impossible not to feel Chinnici’s love for Cuba. In this way, it’s more than a photography book but is rather a love letter to all the Cubans who have left an impression on the photographer and who continue to drive his passion to return.

We were able to chat with Chinnici about his love for photography and for Cuba, as well as the impact he hopes Vanishing Cuba will have. Read on for My Modern Met’s exclusive interview and pick up a copy of Vanishing Cuba on Red Octopus Publishing or Amazon.

“The Children of Cuba”

What sparked your love for documentary photography and investigating other cultures through your art?

There are many genres of photography. They all appeal to photographers in different ways. I love to connect with my subjects. I get this mainly through people and environmental captures. I don’t get that kind of feedback from more static photography. Don’t get me wrong—I love landscape, nature, architecture, etc., but I just don’t feel the same connection.

I fell in love with documentary photography because it captures real life in a beautiful and truthful way. It allows the viewer to see the world through my eyes and better understand the story that I’m telling.

I enjoy giving people a better understanding of the world around them. It can also help people to learn about new customs and traditions and to appreciate the diversity of the world’s many cultures.

“Vanishing Sun”

How did the initial trip to Cuba come about and what was it about the country that hooked you?

When I realized that travel to Cuba was possible, I contacted some friends who connected me with the right people. Having the right team on the ground in Cuba—or any country—is key to exploring and capturing unique, truthful, and compelling images.

What hooked me? The people. Everyone I know who has gone or who I’ve brought to Cuba has fallen in love with the people. I’m no different. I’ve traveled to many countries, and there’s something exceptional about Cuba and Cuban culture. The people have beauty in their souls.

“A Room With a View”

When did it then transform into something larger?

I’m now up to 28 trips with my upcoming April trip.

My photography travel company Photo Workshop Adventures leads photographic and cultural trips worldwide, including Cuba.

As my love for Cuba grew and the global interest in traveling to Cuba increased, so did my trips. But even if that were not the case, I would have found a way to return and capture the everyday life of the Cuban people. I’ll probably continue to go to Cuba several times a year for as long as it’s feasible.

“Sunrise on the Malecon”

As Americans, we often have a very specific idea of what it must be like in Cuba based on past history between our countries. What was the most surprising thing you learn through your time in Cuba?

The most surprising thing I’ve learned is how similar Cubans are to Americans. Other than the distinct differences between the governments and the landscape, the people are the same. We feel an affinity toward each other. It’s pretty remarkable. I talk about this in my book, how my fears and concerns on my first trip evaporated in a matter of days.

Think about the tumultuous relationship the United States and Cuba have had since the 1959 Cuban Revolution—including almost no diplomatic relations. The 60-plus-year trade embargo against Cuba is still in place. Think how that embargo affects everyday life for Cubans. You would think there would be much hatred and anger toward Americans. It’s the opposite. Strangely, I see only anger toward the Cuban government.

“Bullet Nose”

What were some of the biggest changes you saw in Cuba throughout your trips?

There have been many changes, such as fewer vintage American cars on the streets (mainly due to the addition of newer Chinese government cars and taxis). Fewer young women giving birth. A brain drain of some of the smartest and youngest people who have left for the United States and Europe. Deterioration of infrastructure. Less food, electricity, fuel, water, medicine, health care, etc., very high inflation, and no tourism. Many new hotels sit empty, waiting for the next surge in tourism. It’s strange to see.

I’ve also witnessed positive changes, such as capitalism. Young entrepreneurs, taxi drivers, tour guides, mechanics, and retail shops trying to get ahead and make a difference. But they are few and far between.

“Exotic Beauty”

Is there any image in particular that has special meaning to you, and how so? 

There are too many images that I’ve taken for there to be one image that stands out and means something special to me. The book contains 300 images, edited from a collection of tens of thousands. But since you are asking the question, I will tell you about the story behind one photo.

I took an image of a young woman titled Exotic Beauty. The title describes her unique blend of ethnicities. It’s not my favorite, but it has a very special meaning. I was in a restaurant in Old Havana when I noticed a waitress with a unique look. I asked her if I could photograph her, and she graciously accepted. Taking just a few minutes of her time, I asked her to step into the kitchen doorway, and I took her photo.

Soon after, Dayle and I became friends (like I do with so many of my encounters). Fast forward several months later. Francesco, a young Italian man with a love for photography and Cuba, who follows me on Instagram, saw my post of Dayle. They connected, and when the Covid restrictions were over, he traveled to Cuba, where they began a beautiful relationship. Recently, they were married in Florence, Italy. Knowing that my photograph connected two people and created a beautiful love story makes what I do all worth it.

“Taxi Driver”

What do you hope that people take away when looking at Vanishing Cuba?

It’s my hope that people will come away with better love and understanding of Cuba and the Cuban people. Feel my connection to the Cuban people and appreciate my photography.

Vanishing Cuba is now available in three special editions.

Michael Chinnici: Website | Facebook | Instagram

My Modern Met granted permission to feature photos by Michael Chinnici.

Related Articles:

Beautiful Aerial Portraits of Classic Taxis Showcase Daily Life in Cuba

Cinematic Portraits Capture the Warm Glow of the Streets and People of Cuba

Photographers Document the Soulful Streets of Havana During Obama’s Visit to Cuba

American Photographer Captures Everyday Life in Cuba, Feels Like He Went Back in Time [Interview]

WILLMAR, Minn. – The Minnesota Department of Transportation will conduct aerial mapping of several locations in southwest Minnesota this spring. The mapping will create a record of existing infrastructure and landscape along, and adjacent to, MnDOT right of way for transportation planning and highway design. This work will be conducted after the snow has melted and before trees leaf out.

Weather permitting, work will begin mid-April at the following locations:

Highway 75 – from Pipestone County Road 4 to Highway 30 in Pipestone
Highway 22 – at the MnDOT truck station in Glencoe
Highway 7/22 – from Shady Ridge Road Northwest to Garden Road Northeast in Hutchinson
Highway 23 – between Highway 274 and Highway 67 south of Granite Falls
Highway 29 – from Canton Avenue to North 8th Street in Montevideo
Highway 59 – from Highway 23 to Highway 19 in Marshall

The public is asked to not disturb temporary targets

In order to obtain accurate aerial mapping, MnDOT crews paint large white “X” targets on paved surfaces, and place plastic or fabric “X” targets on unpaved surfaces.

Examples:

A survey crew then records the coordinate position and elevation of the temporary targets for the aerial photography company. The plastic and fabric targets are temporary and will be removed by MnDOT when the photography is completed.

Landowners in the areas that will have targets placed on or near their property will be contacted directly. MnDOT asks that landowners and others who come across targets not remove or disturb the targets. If a target must be moved, please contact the District 8 Willmar Office at 320-231-5195 and ask for assistance from Surveys.

I recently posed a challenge to DALL-E 2 (or to myself?) to mimic one of my photos using prompts. I didn’t think it was actually going to work, until it did. Almost.

The left part of the photo above represents AI’s interpretation of a “photo of Fire Island Lighthouse during the day with few clouds and common reeds with shallow depth of field in foreground” which is about the best way I could describe the actual photo I took with a Canon EOS M6 Mark II and Sigma 56mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens.

To get that photo, I drove out about an hour to Robert Moses State Park’s parking field five. I parked my car, carefully picked out which lenses to bring with me for my trip (and yes, I also brought along Camera brand camera) and then walked about a mile along a boardwalk to get out to the lighthouse, and then walked off the path along some dirt trails to find this interesting scene from amongst the reeds. I made the conscious decision to shoot at ISO 100 and set my aperture to f/1.4 to get the shallow depth of field. I had to think to put a 3-stop neutral density filter on my lens so that the camera’s maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000 would be able to expose the scene properly.

But I’ll be damned if the AI didn’t come close enough to make me wonder: In a couple of years when the computers actually get it right, will it be even worth it to get “the shot” when “the shot” could be produced with just a few clicks of a keyboard?

To be fair, AI is a long way off, and in the case of the main photo in this article, I think it was a combination of a detailed enough prompt and some luck. Sometimes, I struck out, like with this photo of the Montauk Point Lighthouse that I tried to recreate with AI:

The prompt for this one was: “Low angle shot of Montauk Point lighthouse covered in white Christmas lights with long exposure of water flowing over rocks and lighthouse reflecting in water at dusk with clouds.” It certainly looks like the Montauk Lighthouse has seen better days in the AI photo, but still, as in the photo of the Fire Island Lighthouse, it doesn’t look like the AI is too far away from actually figuring this out.

Some may argue, especially in the case of recognizable landmarks like these two lighthouses, that the AI is essentially just stealing images and tweaking them a bit. While it’s impossible to tell what’s going on behind the scenes of the software, I wouldn’t be surprised.

That said, I’d never be able to photograph a “Photorealistic image of a t-rex wearing sunglasses driving a red convertible car through a machine car wash,” and so I’ve got to hand it to DALL-E 2 on that.

Still, with the ability to produce frame-worthy images (maybe) in the near future through AI, is it worth it to travel at great cost and expense to make a photo?

For me, the answer will always be yes, as I want to experience and see the very thing I’m photographing, which is something AI will never replace. But is that the case for you? Is having the photo produced by an AI prompt good enough for you?

Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

Triad Photographer’s helpful tips for picture perfect graduation photos

Updated: 11:03 AM EDT Apr 7, 2023

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SO LET’S CHECK IN WITH HER NOW. LET’S CHECK IT OUT IN JUST A FEW SHORT WEEKS. GRADUATION SEASON WILL STILL BE OR WILL BE HERE. IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE GRAD PHOTOSHOOTS TO COMMEMORATE THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS ARE BECOMING QUITE POPULAR. THAT’S TRUE. SO SOME PEOPLE MAY BE WONDERING WHAT ARE SOME WAYS TO LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST AND MAKE SURE YOUR GRADUATE AND SHOOT WILL GO SMOOTHLY. FOR OUR LIVE GUEST, ASHLEY CRAWLEY CAN ANSWER THAT. SHE IS THE OWNER OF GREENSBORO BASED STILL SHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY. THANKS FOR BEING WITH US. THANK YOU FOR HAVING ME. OH, YOU’RE WELCOME. NICE TO SEE YOU AGAIN, TOO. HERE ON OUR SHOW. SO LET’S FIRST TALK ABOUT WHY IS PLANNING AHEAD SO IMPORTANT FOR THIS TYPE OF PHOTO SHOOT? WELL, CLEARLY ON TODAY, IT’S RAINING, SO YOU WANT TO BE SURE TO PREPARE FOR THE WEATHER AND CHOOSE A SEASON THAT IS COMFORTABLE FOR THAT. SO DON’T WAIT TILL THE LAST MINUTE TO HAVE YOUR THINK YOUR PICTURES TAKEN. MAYBE CONSIDER TAKING YOUR FINGER PICTURES IN THE SPRING EXCUSE ME IN THE SUMMER AND THE SPRING OR YOUR FAVORITE SEASON. HONESTLY, I HAVE SEVERAL FINGERS WHO ENJOY SKIING AND SO MAYBE WAITING TILL THE WINTER. TIME TO TAKE YOUR PICTURES IN THE MOUNTAINS WILL BE AN AWESOME IDEA. ALSO, LOCATIONS. THERE ARE SEVERAL TRENDY LOCATIONS HERE IN GREENSBORO AND IN THE NORTH CAROLINA AREA, SO YOU DON’T WANT TO VISIT THOSE LOCATIONS DURING THEIR PEAK TIMES AS WELL. PLANNING FOR YOUR OUTFIT, KNOWING EXACTLY WHEN YOUR SCHOOL PLANS TO RELEASE THE CAP AND GOWN, IF THAT’S SOMETHING THAT YOU GUYS WANT TO USE DURING YOUR PHOTO SHOOT, FIND OUT THE RELEASE DATES FOR THAT. SO THAT WAY YOU HAVE ALL OF THOSE TEES CROSS AND THAT ARE AS THAT. AND SO THAT’S THE VERY MOST IMPORTANT THING WHEN YOU’RE PLANNING AHEAD FOR YOUR SENIOR YOUR PICTURES. OKAY, VERY GOOD TIPS THERE. LET’S GET BACK TO THE LOCATION A LITTLE BIT. I’M SURE THAT’S REALLY IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION TO MAKE AND NOT NECESSARILY JUST BECAUSE OF THE TIME OF YEAR AND THE WEATHER THAT’S RELATED. ARE THERE SOME IMPORTANT TIPS THAT YOU HAVE FOR PICKING A GOOD LOCATION THAT WILL END UP MAKING A REALLY FOR A FOR A REALLY GOOD SHOOT? YES. SELECT THE LOCATION THAT YOU VISIT FREQUENTLY OR THAT YOUR FAMILY MAY ENJOY BEING AT. SO, AGAIN, A FAMILY FARM USING OPEN FIELD OR SOME USE A LOCATION THAT SHOWS YOUR INTERESTS. SO IF YOU ARE AT IT BOWLER OR IF YOU LIKE TO ROLLER SKATE GOING TO THOSE LOCATIONS ALSO MAKE FOR GREAT PHOTOS A ROOFTOP. I HAVE A RECENTLY PHOTOGRAPHED A SENIOR WHO SPENT A LOT OF TIME RESTORING A VINTAGE CAR AND HE WANTED TO SHOW THAT OFF. SO WE WENT TO A ROOFTOP ON A PARKING DECK AND GOT SOME AMAZING SHOTS THERE TOO. HAVE THE CITYSCAPE IN THE BACKGROUND. SO JUST A FEW LOCATIONS. YOUR HIGH SCHOOL OR EVEN YOUR COLLEGE TAKING PICTURES THERE AS WELL. YEAH, WE ARE SHOWING THOSE PICTURES THAT YOU JUST MENTIONED ON THE SCREEN. NOW. THIS IS A FANTASTIC PHOTO. LOOKS LIKE A FAKE BACKGROUND THAT HE’S IN FRONT OF WITH THE CAR. THAT’S PRETTY. YEAH. THANK YOU SO MUCH. WHEN YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT REPRESENTING, LIKE, PASSION AND INTERESTS AND WHATNOT, DO YOU LEAVE THAT UP TO THE SENIOR OR YOU KIND OF THINKING LIKE IT’S A FAMILY DECISION? I WAS JUST DRIVING BY MY NEIGHBORHOOD AT HOME AND THERE WAS A SIGN OF WHERE THE CHILD WAS GOING TO SCHOOL, YOU KNOW, HIS COLLEGE CHOICE. AND IT WAS THE CUTEST THING TO WITNESS. LIKE THE WHOLE FAMILY WAS IN FRONT OF THE SIGN TAKING PICTURES OF EACH OTHER. AND THE SENIOR. AND THAT WAS JUST A STATE YARD SIGN IN FRONT OF THEIR HOME. BUT THEY WERE THEY WERE OBVIOUSLY WANTING TO REPRESENT HIS COLLEGE OF CHOICE. SO DO YOU RECOMMEND THAT KIND OF THING TO. ABSOLUTELY. A LOT OF SINGERS ARE WAITING TO DO A HUGE REVEAL TO ANNOUNCE THEIR COLLEGE SELECTIONS. SO PUTTING ON YOUR OTHER PARAPHERNALIA TO REALLY SHOW OFF THE COLLEGE THAT YOU’RE CHOOSING TO ATTEND IS A GREAT WAY TO KIND OF MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT OF YOUR NEXT MOVES IN YOUR COLLEGE CAREER. ADDING YOUR FAMILY OR FRIENDS IS DEFINITE. LEE PERFECT. THIS IS A HUGE MILESTONE AND FOR MOST FAMILY FINGERS, THEIR FAMILY HAVE BEEN HAVE HAVE BEEN A VITAL PART IN HELPING THEM DURING THIS PROCESS. SO INCORPORATING YOUR FAVORITE, YOU KNOW, FRIENDS AND YOUR FAMILY. SO ONE OF YOUR SPORTS INTERESTS, YOU KNOW, NORTH CAROLINA, WE’RE HUGE DUKE AND CAROLINA RIVALS THEY RIVALS SO YOU KNOW SHOWING OFF YOUR FAVORITE TEAMS THAT WAY YOUR HOBBIES AND YOUR INTERESTS ARE ALWAYS GREAT AND REFLECTING YOUR PASSIONS AND THE MILESTONE THAT YOU JUST COMPLETED AND THE ONE THAT YOU’RE GETTING READY TO GO INTO. SO ONCE YOU HAVE THE PHOTOS, THEN HOW DO YOU RECOMMEND PEOPLE SHARING THEM? MAYBE LIKE BEYOND JUST WITH OUR FRIENDS? YEAH. SO WHEN YOU’RE TAKING YOUR THINGS, YOUR PICTURES MAYBE CAN MAYBE CONSIDER PROMOTING YOUR NEXT CAREER INTERESTS. SO IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON GOING INTO JOURNALISM OR IF YOU’RE WANTING TO DO NURSING OR YOU HAVE HOBBIES AS PODCASTS, TAKE SOME OF THOSE PICTURES WHILE YOU’RE DOING YOUR SENIOR PORTRAIT AND USE PROPS TO HELP REFLECT AND SHOW THOSE INTERESTS SO THAT YOU CAN USE THEM FOR YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA OR FUTURE WEBSITES, OR APPLYING FOR INTERNSHIPS, OR EVEN MAYBE USING THEM FOR JOB SOURCING SITES LIKE LINKEDIN AND THINGS OF THAT NATURE. OKAY. THESE ARE REALLY HELPFUL TIPS. I LIKE THESE. YEAH. AND HOPEFULLY FAMILIES TOO, WITH THOSE GRADS CAN ALSO FIND SOME HELP TOO. FROM YOU. ASHLEY. AND WE WILL HAVE THIS SEGMENT IF YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE IT, POST IT ON TRIAD CW DOT COM TOO FOR FOLKS AND BE SURE TO FOLLOW ALONG. STILL SHOTS PHOTOGRAPH

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Triad Photographer’s helpful tips for picture perfect graduation photos

Updated: 11:03 AM EDT Apr 7, 2023

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Lansing natives Cameron Warren Jr. and Dwayne Goodwin don’t have a decades-long history behind the camera lens, but their enthusiasm and passion for photography are developing rapidly. And now they want to share their passion and art.

The entrepreneurs are joining the East Lansing small business community with the opening of their photography studio, Studio 34, at 210 Abbot Road, Unit 34, next to P.T. O’Malley’s in downtown. The studio’s grand opening was held Sunday, April 2.

While both photographers are local, the pair of creatives hadn’t met until a tree farm fundraising event during the holidays. Warren Jr., who was capturing family photos as part of the fundraiser, said he was immediately impressed with Goodwin’s work.

“I started going to the bar he works at, and started doing club photography,” he said. “From there, I approached him about going half on a studio so we both would have room to create.”

Goodwin, 34, started his photography journey last spring, focusing mainly on street photography, and expanding to portraits and event photography like DJ gigs. While DJing in a local bar, he gained traction from taking photos of people there. Goodwin also placed second in the 2022 East Lansing Community Photo Contest last fall.

“My main styles would be creative, event and street [photography]. Those come naturally to me, and are the ones I have the most fun with,” Goodwin said of his artistic style. “I have a huge imagination when it comes to photography. I just want to continue to push limits and overcome any boundaries.”

Warren Jr., 31, first picked up a camera during college. While he became bored with the class and dropped the subject, he kept picking up the camera every now and then. After being asked to take prom photos for a family member, Warren Jr. was inspired to take his craft more seriously.

“I started doing street photography in downtown East Lansing over the summer and kept telling myself ‘keep improving and keep shooting,’” he said.

Warren Jr. also had a special goal: take maternity photos of his wife. After the birth of their child, this stay-at-home dad now has both a growing family and a growing photography career.

“I was proud of my achievements at the moment, but I wasn’t satisfied,” he said. “I wanted to still improve and create more beautiful moments with photography.”

Warren Jr.  specializes in creative, beauty, event/street and lifestyle/candid images. He aspires to continually make creative images that elicit joy and happiness for both him and his clients.

“I want to create art with my photography,” he said. “I want people to see my work and say ‘wow.’ I want to impress everyone who books with me and have a fun photo shoot every time.”

Warren Jr. hopes this new business venture can allow the duo of busy fathers to elevate their craft outside of their homes and fully chase their dreams. Whether it’s a birthday photo shoot, family photos, senior pictures or lifestyle/modeling portfolios, Warren Jr. wants to “capture dope moments for people.”

“I always love seeing people’s reactions to good photos of themselves or family,” he said. “I want to be able to give someone a photo that they will show off everywhere and put on their wall or in a frame.”

After the space at Abbot became available, the pair was ready to sign the paperwork right away. The location is a familiar one and a central spot within the community and where the creative visions began to take shape.

“It just felt like a great spot to be in,” Warren Jr. said. “They’ve been building the city up and adding so many new things out there every year. I also started my street photography out there when I first started my photography journey, so it just felt right to be out there.”

Ultimately, Warren Jr. hopes to provide anyone who books with him a positive experience.

“I understand that today’s camera phones are getting really good, so in order to compete with that, I want to make sure booking with me is an experience,” he said. “I live by the phrase ‘treat others the way you want to be treated,’ and I will continue that practice with my business.”