For 2019, I wanted to share something a little different. This year has been very special for me and allowed me to work with many clients and models that have meant a lot to me in my development as a photographer and as a business member of the community. When it came to selection, there were different criteria used. Some were based on technique, others were based on location, and some were just based on being just plain cool!

For the top 10, I did not include any weddings or events, because I personally don’t think one person’s significant milestone should be ranked by someone else’s opinion. These moments are special and unique on their own.

I want to share stories, and maybe even a few behind the scenes shots and/or commentary, to explain why each of these sessions are special to me. DISCLAIMER: There are some nude shots in this count down and any nudity posted are of hired models and NOT clients. So for those boudoir and fine are nude clients who might be thinking, “Where am I?” Rest assured, it’s because of my commitment to your privacy, why your images are not on this list.

As always, feel free to comment, subscribe, and if so inclined, inquire about future bookings. All model work is available for museum-quality printing and mounting.

LD

10. Chey @cheya1exandria (NSFW)

This shoot with Chey was amazing! A little bit of fine art, a little bit of fashion, a little bit of glamour, and a whole lot of FIRE! We finally got a chance to work in Charleston at Pixel Studios, in an event hosted by Charleston Photographer, Leroy Mazick, and owner of Pixel Studios.

In this very intimate session, we were joined by legendary Charleston photographer, Erick Lamar. The great environment with little distraction allowed both of us to capture Chey exactly how envisioned without stepping on each others toes.

What I really loved about Chey is that she will do anything to get the shot, whether it is wardrobe, hair, and definitely her posing. All of these allowed me to experiment with shadows, lighting, and even a little silhouette action.

9. TJ @tarlettashavonn

I loved working with TJ. This session was in St. Pete and was officially my first model session since relocating to the Tampa Bay area. We worked in a little town called Gulfport and did a quick test shoot along the sidewalks by the Gulfport beach.

When shooting in public, I am always intrigued by the cool people I meet. During this session, we met Wyte, the innkeeper at the Sea Breeze Manor Inn Bed & Breakfast. The inside courtyard provided a great spot to capture some nice action shots which were really interesting.

I wanted to work on some lighting solutions during this test session. Besides the use of an off-camera flash, we experimented with reflecting light off of the inn’s walls and even used the reflected light of a STOP sign as the sun was setting (last two images in the gallery below). The focus was to maintain the beauty of TJ’s dark skin and keep it authentic.

8. Phee Comes to Charleston @missphee31

I met Phee as a matter of luck while traveling to Jamaica. While she was on vacation as a flight attendant, visiting family for the holidays, I came to learn that she was a model and fashion designer as well. Almost a year later, she happened to have an overnight stay in Charleston and we linked up for a quick photo shoot in an outfit that she put together. It had rained all day, but the cleared afternoon sky proved to be just what we needed to give us a great perspective of Charleston.

This session was also captured with the my trusty old Nikon Df, which still proves to be one of the most “fun” cameras I have ever owned. The smaller size and simpler function allows me to engage more with the subject to bring out the best expressions. Another thing I love about this camera is that it is seasoned to my color preferences as shown by the out of camera images in the gallery below.

7. Demi @demidabaddie (NSFW)

I first worked with Demi about 10 years ago in Jacksonville, Florida. I was thrilled to get a chance to work with her on some fine art and erotica themed shots. Working in early February, while it was cold outside, the shots were hot on the inside. The above image was captured in-camera with the use of colored speedlights and adjusted color temperatures. We are still currently finishing the work from this collection and expect to have on display in the Spring of 2020.

6. Taylor @Misfit.tay

Who would have thought that I would be in a Waffle House parking lot doing a photoshoot, but there I was…

I loved this test session with Taylor. Using one light with a modifier, we were able to capture some great shots while in a simple Waffle House parking lot in Lithonia, Georgia. The setting sun behind the rain clouds provided a visually dramatic backdrop, while the black and yellow-leafed, sleeveless outfit, showcasing Taylor’s impressive physique, provided a very interesting subject to look upon.

I am thankful that Taylor was so dedicated, with it being as cold as it was, she still was able to stay focused and capture amazing shots. At just a breath under 6’ she is someone that I would recommend for anyone’s runway or signature fashion line.

Stay tuned for part 2 and sessions 5-2!

LD