Lifestyle Photography
The Art of Life: Most of my inspirations come from life. I am truly inspired by the real. This world can be a very confusing place. As Frank Sinatra once said "Flying high in April shot down in may." Ups, downs, feeling like you are on a never ending rollercoaster. All of these things may not sound like the best, but it's all of these things that make life beautiful and inspiring. This collection of photos are all inspired by life. I hope you enjoy them.
Harveys
Starkville, MS
I have had the wonderful privilege to photograph all three of Harveys' wine dinner events. These images are from the most recent event of theirs--- the Wine Maker Dinner. This dinner included a 5 course meal and 5 different wines. This dinner was extra special because we had Neil, the owner of Vending Machine Wines and maker of the wine line up for the night. Not only was the night fun, but it was so educational. Neil has a twisted, eccentric style of branding. His wine is his art, and it shows. Huge thanks to Duston, Harveys' general manager, who makes each one of these dinners possible and always tops the previous dinner in every way!
The Serendipity Hippie
Owned by: Paisley Hamilton
Paisley Hamilton is the owner of a beautifully unique bohemian studio located on HWY 182 in Starkville, Mississippi. Paisley is a lover, a creator, and a friend to everyone. I have known Paisley for a while now through mutual family members. It was not until Fall of 2020 that I met her for the first time in person. I was immediately drawn to her positive energy and good vibes. Visiting the studio for the first time felt like a much needed therapy session. Soon, Paisley became a really great friend of mine. Since then, I will drop by the studio and photograph her in her element. A persons energy is tangible when they are doing something they are passionate about. Paisley is a truly inspiring individual. Paisley lights up every room she is in. I like to think of it as her superpower. Much love for this Mississippi Hippie that I have the privilege to call my friend.
Scooter's Records
Owned by: Scott Thomas
Scott "Scooter" Thomas is a Jackson, Mississippi native. He attended Mississippi State University and was a member of the Famous Maroon Marching Band. Scott is a musician, music enthusiast, and a friend to everyone he meets. Him and his dog "Vincent Superchunk" reside in Starkville, Mississippi where in 2017 he opened "Scooter's Records." Scooter's is the place I go when I need a pick me up. good music, great conversation, and where Scott asks "You're Getting Married?!" every time I come in and mention I have a wedding to shoot the following weekend. He's a friend, a hippie, a drummer, and so many more things. Scott says in his earlier years he was very creative and artistic. He loved to draw and sketch various different things as a kid. He said it was not until the band Van Halen came about that he turned his creative mind towards the medium of music. So, long story short, if it wasn't for Van Halen "Scooter's Records" would not be a thing, and I wouldn't have a friend named Scott. So thank you, Van Halen.
National Champions
Mississippi State Bulldog Baseball Celebratory Parade
I grew up just twenty minutes outside of Starkville, MS. Starkville has always been the place you go for good food, groceries, and college sports. Starkville has always been a special place to me, but it wasn't until July 3, 2021 that I realized how special Starkville truly is. Of course I was proud of our Baseball Team for bringing home MSU's first ever College World Series Win, but there was something that I saw that day that I was even more proud of. As I stood in the district patiently waiting for the parade to begin, I took in the environment and its energy. People of all kinds. College Students, Small Business Owners, City Officials, Artists, MSU Alumni, Teachers, Moms, Dads, Friends, Dogs, Babies, Men and Women from all different backgrounds and walks in life. All coming together to celebrate this win. It was beautiful. Starkville is not just a city. It is a community. A community filled with kind, loving individuals. A community that is proud of who they are. That uplifts those around them, and encourages individuality and creativity. In this town not only did I find my voice, but I found my home.
GO DAWGS!