Headshots for Joye Law Firm

In a complex personal injury case, two sisters suffered severe and permanent injuries as passengers in a Tesla accident in Charleston. The case was handled by Attorney Mark Joye of the Joye Law Firm. The litigation involved challenging negotiations with the Cincinnati Insurance Company, which initially understated the available insurance coverage. Ultimately, Mark was able to get a $2,417,500 settlement for the sisters. This case highlights the importance of skilled legal representation in personal injury cases.

It was an honor to photograph updated headshots for the Joye Law Firm last week. I set up a portable studio in their atrium, with a white background, and a high-key Rembrandt lighting style. I used the Nikon Z9, Nikkor 70-200 f2.8 Z, Flashpoint speedlights (x5), Manfrotto supports, and Westcott umbrellas. Of course I created serious portraits of each employee. But my favorites are the fun “outtakes” that I frequently throw in to help people get relaxed and comfortable in front of the camera!!! 🙂

Many thanks to Nicole & Rachel for coordinating schedules and helping organize the shoot.

Why Use Flash for Outdoor Portraits?

A nice couple was walking by as I set up my lights for a photo shoot on Daniel Island. Curious, they asked “why are you using flash for outdoor photos?” I thought that was a great question!

Commonwealth Financial is a longtime client. Several times a year, they have me come out to photograph headshots of new advisors that have joined their team. Heather is always so good about organizing everyone’s schedules and coordinating these photo shoots. She had arranged for me to come out for some updates this week.

We always schedule their headshots in the morning, when the side of their building is in open shade. That way, the light is consistent each time I go out, and nobody is squinting in the sunlight. The even shade also gives me a blank canvas to work with. It creates the ambient light that illuminates the side of the building that we always use as the backdrop, plus provides a nice fill light to the faces. Yes, I could just shoot these headshots with natural light. The light would be nice and soft. But it would also be flat, lacking punch and directionality. Plus it would be inconsistent from shoot to shoot…on overcast days it would be extra flat with a cool color tone…on sunny days it would be warmer and more contrasty. For these reasons, I always blend in some lighting from off-camera flash.

For the main light (to the subject’s right), I set up a Manfrotto lightstand, with 3 SB-5000 flashes on a bracket, firing into an Westcott Apollo 50″ softbox. Since this is a very large light source, susceptible to wind, the stand is held in place by 4 10-lb BoaBags. On the opposite side, firing from behind the subject’s left shoulder, I place another Manfrotto lightstand. This one has a single SB-5000 flash, firing into a Westcott Apollo Strip softbox, and is held down by a single 10-lb BoaBag. This light provides a “kicker” that highlights the hair, provides a little fill on the cheek, gives a little edging to the shoulders, and helps separate the subject from the background. I shoot these portraits using my Nikon Z9 with the Nikkor Z 70-200 f2.8 lens on a Manfrotto tripod.

In the first photo, you can see the results without flash, which I shoot to get a “base” exposure. There’s nothing wrong with it. The light just doesn’t sculpt the face and provide the punch I like in a headshots! The subsequent shots show the final results with the off-camera flashes. I hope this helps answer the question of why I use flash for outdoor portraits!

Headshots for McCabe Trotter & Beverly

Over the years, I’ve developed some wonderful relationships within the photography industy. Charleston…and South Carolina as a whole…has a wonderfully supportive cummunity of photographers. If a client contacts me and I’m not available, I find out what they are looking for and recommend several photographers who I know personally, and trust to do a great job for them. Frequently, that good karma comes back to me!

Last week, my friend and amazingly talented photographer, Clark Berry, passed along one of his clients for me. Clark is from Columbia, and photographs headshots for McCabe, Trotter & Beverly, P.C. But when they opened a new branch in Charleston, Clark’s schedule was too tight to drive all the way down here for one headshot. So he recommended me! He also sent me samples of how he photographed the ones in Columbia, what lights he used, and even a behind-the-scenes photo of his setup.

From that information, I was able to meet up with attorney Jim Lady at the new office, and capture a variety of headshots that mirrored the style Clark had used on the original photos!

Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah at Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue

Photographing a milestone event is always a special experience, but there’s something truly magical about documenting a Bar Mitzvah. Recently, I had the privilege of capturing the joy and traditions of Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah at the historic Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue. Between the vibrant family moments, the rich traditions, and the unique fusion of spirituality and fun…Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah truly was unforgettable.

The day began at the breathtaking Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue, a sacred space that has stood as a pillar of Jewish heritage for generations. As the natural light streamed through the stained glass windows, I captured candid moments of Ryan’s family and friends gathering to witness this rite of passage. The air was filled with a sense of reverence, as the young man embarked on his journey into adulthood. The ceremony itself was a beautiful blend of tradition and personal significance. Ryan flawlessly recited his Torah portion and shared reflections on the values he holds dear. The synagogue echoed with melodies of ancient prayers, creating an atmosphere of spirituality that resonated with everyone present. The emotion on Ryan’s face as he received blessings from family and community members was a testament to the significance of this milestone.

Later that evening, the atmosphere shifted as guests made their way to the Harborside East for the carnival-themed reception. The transformation was nothing short of magical – vibrant colors, whimsical decorations, and the lively energy of a carnival greeted everyone as they entered. From cotton candy stations to classic carnival games, the reception exuded an atmosphere of pure joy. As a photographer, capturing the exuberance of a carnival-themed celebration presented a delightful challenge. I documented the laughter and camaraderie as guests tried their luck at games, enjoyed delicious carnival treats, and danced to the beats of lively music. The eclectic mix of traditional Bar Mitzvah customs and the playful spirit of the carnival created a dynamic visual narrative that told the story of Ryan’s unique celebration.

Ryan’s Bar Mitzvah celebration at Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim Synagogue and the carnival-themed reception at Harborside East was a perfect blend of spirituality and festivity. The photographs captured not just moments frozen in time but a rich tapestry of tradition, joy, and the unbreakable bonds of family and community. It was an honor to be part of such a joyous occasion, and I’m grateful to have been a part of documenting these memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Many thanks to Sha Sha at Loluma for creating this magical narrative for me to document! And CONGRATULATIONS to Ryan!!! Well done, young man.

Gracie’s Senior Portraits

I’ve been photographing Gracie’s family for over a decade. Every year they vacation down here on Seabrook Island, during which we pick a fun spot around town to meet up for a fun photo session.  I just photographed their family earilier this summer.  But this weekend, I had the distinct pleasure of photographing an entire session just for Gracie!

It’s been such a joy documenting Gracie’s life from when I first met her as a shy little girl! Watching her grow into this beautiful, confident, inteligent and independant young lady makes me so honored that her family welcomed me into their lives and allowed me to preserve all her life-stages along the way.

I know Grace’s parents are so proud of her! And I am SUPER EXCITED for what the future holds for her. Keep an eye out for this young lady…great things lie ahead. And please help me congratulate her on achieving this fantastic milestone!!!

Sunny Brook Equestrian Team

While visiting family in Troy, Ohio, we had the pleasure of photographing a team photo for the Sunny Brooke Equestrian Center! It was a pretty uggly, gray, and overcast evening. But with a few speedlights and warming gels, we added a little extra punch to create a beautiful portrait for these adorable young ladies!!! Many thanks to Noelle for inviting us to capture it for them!

Luke’s Senior Portraits

When Nikkole contacted me about photographing their son’s senior portraits, I was super excited!
Their family is from Indiana. But Nikkole and Luke’s dad, Larry, have instilled a valuable trait in Luke’s life. He prioritizes “experiences” over “things”. And since Nikkole and her husband, Chad, were going to bring Luke to the Lowcountry for some college visits, they thought it would be neat to have his senior portraits taken in a brand new environment, completely different from where all his friends back home were having theirs done!
We had a BLAST and came away with so many fun portraits to commemorate this special time in his life. CONGRATULATIONS, Luke!!!

Abby & David’s Wedding at The Millstone

I grew up in Zaire, now known as the Congo (DRC). So did my friend Beth. Now imagine my excitement one day when Beth sent me a message that they were visiting her son and his fiance and wanted to know if I was available to photograph their wedding!?!

Abby & David tied the knot last weekend at The Millstone. Filled with natural landscaping, the grounds at the Millstone was the perfect spot for their celebration! Located just outside Johnson City, TN, the mill itself has been restored into a stunning venue, while still preserving the history and charm that has been a part of this farming community since 1811.

Abby was absolutely stunning in her fairytale wedding gown! I loved her elegant poise, kind eyes, and gentle soul. David looked really sharp in his plum suit and floral tie.  He’s got an easy-going personality, an inviting smile, and an amazingly creative spirit.  They both wore matching sneakers…which is something they’ve done since they started dating!

The wedding ceremony was made extra special with Abby’s brother, Landin, who is in seminary, leading the vows. Plus, David’s grandfather, who we lovingly call by his African nickname, “Babu”, led the unity ceremony and prayed a blessing over the beautiful couple. The sun was out. The bird’s were singing. Abby and David were enveloped withinin the love and support of their closest friends and family. It truly was a special day!

After the ceremony, a delightful reception was held inside the old restored mill. Food, drinks, dancing, mingling, cake, toasts, and a grand departure…they had it all. I have to confess, it was difficult to contain the lump in my throat during the heartfelt toasts. When those emotions welled up around the room, it was a clear sign to me that Abby & David are truly and deeply loved!!!

CONGRATULATIONS Abby & David! We wish you all the happiness in the world as you begin your new journey together as husband and wife…

Headshots for Elliott Davis

Photographing headshots yesterday for Elliott Davis, one of my favorite clients, was an absolute blast!

Working with the individuals at Elliott Davis is always a delightful experience. I arrived early to find a picturesque backdrop for us to use. The morning light was gorgeous. And everyone was so much fun! I couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable session. And I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue collaborating with such a talented and inspiring team!

Park, Fire Department, and Library

It was awesome working with Dorchester County PIO, Michelle, again this week!

We photographed updated photos of Ashley River Park, the new Ladson Fire Station, and the soon-to-open North Charleston Library. Everything was captured with Nikon Z9 camera, Nikkor Z 14-24 f4, 24-120 f4, 70-200 f2.8 lenses, and DJI Mavic 2 Pro drone.

Sanja for State Farm

I’d like you to meet Sanja! She is originally from Bosnia and Herzegovena, that beautiful country in the Balkans, along the Adriatic Sea.

Sanja’s family moved to the US when she was still young. And she has taken the world by storm ever since! She’s won all kinds of fitness and body-building competitions…meeting her handsome husband at the gym along the way. 🙂 And she’s been very successful in her business ventures. Her most recent move is opening a new State Farm insurance agency off Orleans Rd!
It was a pleasure meeting Sanja today, photographing some new headshots and marketing photos. I look forward to following her story as she builds her new business in West Ashley. Let’s show her some encouragement and well-wishes!!!

Madi & Connor’s Rainbow Row Engagement

Madi & Connor are ENGAGED!!!

I had so much fun catching up with them and photographing their engagement photos yesterday. Madi & Connor went to high-school together. He is now in his first year of medical school. And she is in her last year of dental school. They are an absolutely ADORABLE couple…about to embark on the biggest adventure of all.  I can’t wait to be there for them on their wedding day!!!

Please help share some love and encouragement for these two during this special time in their lives…