Although 2020 was largely considered a challenging year, it was a good year for photography. From new connections to fundraising to social unrest, the year brought many reasons to grab my camera and create. Here are some of my favorite moments.

Portraits

Some of my favorite moments were spent photographing Monique. She loves being in front of the camera, and it shows. After we did a test shoot (L) early in the summer, she asked me to photograph her for her birthday. She had a vision for a formal shoot where she’d dress up and really make herself “feel pretty.”

I was so happy to connect with a musician and artist here in town to create some personal branding images. Anna Oh is a wonderful singer, but that’s just one of her many talents. From juggling fire to hula hoops, the lady is an all around performer.

George is an aspiring model and influencer who wanted a fashion-ish shoot. We set up at the Ridgewood NJT station to create some iconic images for him.

This is one of the more fun photo stories I covered. Antonio loves creating Halloween scenes in his front yard. He even dons costumes and becomes part of the exhibit.

As the pandemic started, we all weighed how we could become involved in some form of volunteerism. I used porch portraits to raise funds for the local first responders. Here are one of my favorite couples, the Iovinos.

It’s showtime! Aspiring actress and full time goofball, Noelle, at work.

Here’s my tribute to one of my oldest friends and mentors. I was in Alabama for a graduation, so I stole some time to connect with Ron and Lindsay. An even bigger treat, they allowed me to photograph them.

One of my favorite clients last year, Rei Vazquez is a constant source of positive energy. The world needs more people like this.

I trudged around town looking for examples of small businesses struggling during the pandemic for our local TAPinto newspaper. I happened upon this dog groomer who was just a treat to photograph.

When the local high school cancelled the prom, this group of moms created their own. If you want something done, give it to a mom!

It seems every time little Anthony stops by, he grabs my old school camera and pretends to shoot with it. I can definitely relate to that instinct.

Life

Outside of formal portraits, I also found interesting slices of life as I got around with my camera.

I lost my mom to a battle with cancer late in 2020, but I got to spend her last few months with her in Houston.

When I sat with mom, she often asked me to just hold her hand. I cherish the memory of those tender moments.

My impromptu models, Danielle & Mocha help me test my lights.

I saw this scene as we were driving through Bear Mountain, so I just HAD to stop.

Selfies

Selfies means more than mugging with my iPhone. I often set up lights and mug in front of my DSLR. ":-)

They year in photos was so much more fun with this lady. She is usually not far away outside the frame when I’m shooting.