James was a joy to work with; not only because we are friends, but also because as an actor he had lots of fun looks up his sleeve. Some serious and others playful. Narrowing down the photos was not an easy task!

When working with someone who wants a range of looks, it is exciting to go through the changes in lighting and background. It brings me back to my film school days and I feel inspired to tell a visual story.

To us taking a portrait is letting someone tell their story. A neutral-colored or blurry background is simple and offers no distractions to what this person is trying to say. Often times we think we can make something better by adding more to it. Instead, I find asking what can be taken out is very powerful. In portraits, simplicity offers focus to the subject and their story.

Of course, there are many different and effective ways to take portraits that include interesting surroundings, lots of lights, movement, etc. To me it all depends on the person and what they want to say.

Please enjoy some of our favorite photos from our portrait session with James.

-Maria