One of the things that I love about the American culture is that depending on where you are the culture can be so different. You can travel a few blocks down the street and see something totally different. I decided that this time, I wanted to explore and photograph the young Black urban culture.

Family In Urban Cities

One of the things that I noticed is the sense of family. Everyone seems to look out for everyone else in the neighborhood. I thought that it was beautiful that there is always more than one maternal figure among the youth; the one lady that everyone calls mama. That brings a brand new meaning to me when I think of the phrase, “it takes a village to raise a child.”

Style Of Urban Cites

The style of the youth, young, and older adults intrigued me. I got quite a few great photos of what they call swagg. I learned that swagg applied to everything from the way you wear your hair and makeup, the way you coordinate your outfit, the original rims on your car, and even your attitude and style of speech. Cars are often an extension of personal style, so often getting people upgrade their car’s factory rims. Swagg is not about wearing the latest style and as one young lady told me, you can make a dollar store outfit look great with swagg.

Music In Cities

I found that the music varied so much. There was so much versatility. Some of the younger guys liked the hip hop scene and everything from the clothes that they wear to their choice of libation was influenced by popular music. Music is deeply embroiled into the urban culture. I was fortunate enough to be invited to a cook out. All I saw were people playing card games, eating, listening to the music, and having a great time. I asked how often gatherings like this happen. The answer I got was heartwarming; as much as possible. One young man told me that these gathering were often impromptu. Even the small kids were running around and having a great time.

As the day dwindled and the nighttime settled, the party was still going strong. The kids were gone home and in bed. The music changed to an old school vibe. Everyone was dancing and having a good time. This was truly something special among friends and family.

Food  In The City

One of the things that I have noticed that brings everyone together is good food. Just like the cook out, it draws people. They had all kinds of food. They had several different meats including chicken, pork chops, sausages, steaks, ribs, and even shrimp. A couple of the ladies brought dishes such as spaghetti, potato salad, baked beans, and even a few desserts. I thought that it was amazing to see so much food for an event that was not planned.

One of the kids told me that they love Sunday dinners just as much as cook outs. He said that the whole family usually shows up after church. He said his grandma cooks so much food and it is so good, he said that her fried catfish and greens are his very favorite.

This is exactly why I love what I do so much. I have made so many new friends in the process. These are things that you just can’t experience being trapped behind a desk all day.

Photography has always been more than a job for me. The happiness I derive from seeing the world from behind the lenses is just incomparable. No other job in the world, especially the desk confined and computer ramming jobs, can give such a level of happiness and contentment that photography has given me in all these years. Of all the things that my profession demands from me, it is the field trips that I love the most.

Ever since the school days, field trips have been an important part of my life. Whether it is the age-old practice of piling students into the big yellow buses for visiting several different cultural venues in the city, or the modern day flocking of utterly professional people for visiting a noteworthy place of work, field trips are a part of every phase of our lives. However, my field trips are a lot different and enjoyable, unlike the boring school or corporate ones.

During a recent trip, I got the opportunity to cover a sports event of the Texas Tech Red Raiders. It is not exactly breaking news to state how important sports teams are to a college and its students. Red Raiders is one such sports unit of the Texas Tech University , which is wildly followed by not only the students, but also the avid sports fans from the region. While I had the task of covering the event in hand, it was the captivating view of fans and supporters dressed in Red Raiders jerseys, tees, caps and accessories that held my attention.

Amid the crowded, screaming, nail-biting, hot and sweating atmosphere, I am not completely sure how the frenzy activity turned into an awe-inspiring one. It was the manner in which the die-hard team loyalists showed their true colors of support, encouragement and motivation by wearing the sports merchandise. It takes a lot of pride for the fans and supporters to wear the sports merchandise of their favorite team, and there was absolutely no dearth of pride in the sports arena where I was sent for the field trip.

The supporters were wearing team jerseys, which proudly displayed the logo of the college on the front and the name and the number of their favorite player on the back, along with caps of different colors. Apart from that, there were these flags, pictures of the players and various personalized messages floating in the air. On asking a fan, I got to know about an online store that retails the complete collection of Red Raiders’ sports merchandise for the avid supporters of the college team. He said that they are the best in their business and have really good quality stuff that the fans appreciate.

Whether it is purchasing sports stuff for personal use or for gifting it to the die-hard sports supporters in the family or friend circle, Red Raider Outfitter provides a wide range of just the right kind of Texas Tech merchandise. The stock is not just limited to sports tees, team jersey and caps. The online store also provides a wide range of accessories like jewelry, watches, photo frames, banners, key chains, wallets, cell phone covers, flags, bags, pet accessories, dart boards, game souvenirs, glassware, mugs, perfumes, koozies, home and office décor items, car decals and hitch covers, license plate frames and several other Red Raiders stuff.

Of a couple of hundred shots that I captured on the ground, I’d credit a majority of them to the merchandise that the fans purchased from Red Raider Outfitter and were flaunting in the stands. They not only added more colors to my event portfolio and gave me some of the best shots, but also made the game more lively and entertaining. For a minute, I felt as if I was captured in the energetic flow of the moment, but I had a job to do. No matter how interesting my work is and how dedicatedly I follow my passion, leaving a place with some memories captured in my click-machine is the only sad part of my job!

One of the best things about being a photographer is the ability to travel to places I’ve never been before and capture the beauty that each place has to offer.

Photography and travel go hand in hand really, and in a way, one almost can’t exist without the other. What good is a spectacular view if I can’t share it with the world?

This time I decided to check out Amsterdam and see what it had in store for the lens.

Biking Around

On my way to my hotel, I was surprised to see more bikes than cars to the tune of about a 10-1 ratio. They were everywhere!

When I asked the taxi driver why there were so many of them he actually explained to me that it was a quintessential means of travel throughout the city for the Dutch. He also told me that back in the early 20th century, using a bicycle also played an important role in women’s right to vote and the reason that so many citizens (and visitors like me) do it is to express our free-spirit.

Who knew?

Food Without Thought

One of the most famous foods that the Dutch are known for is the raw herring. I was a little reluctant to try it, but “When in Amsterdam, do as the Dutch do.”

I honestly didn’t think I would like raw herring, so I went on a search to find the best and ended up going to this place called Stubbe’s Haring. Even though I’m not a huge fan of raw fish sandwiches, I ordered one there and was really surprised on how good it was. Talk about an infusion of protein!

Another really cool place I checked out was Pannenkoekenhuis Upstairs. They have the most delectable waffles I have ever eaten in my life. This place was so crowded when I walked in that I almost didn’t even get a table.

Luckily, I spotted a couple that just finished eating and I nabbed the table before anyone else could. What was funny about this couple is that as they were walking away, I noticed the boyfriend pull out this really cool portable vaporizer and started using it (to help with digestion, of course), so I asked him if I could take a picture of him and his girlfriend because that was kind of uncommon since a lot of people in Europe usually smoke.

Needless to say, my meal was incredible and I would definitely go again.

Cafes That Serve More than Coffee

We all know what Amsterdam “cafe’s” are known for and why so many people from all around the world go there, so I had to make an appearance.

I asked a few of the locals and they told me to go and take a look at The Bulldog Cafe. I’m not too much into this particular scene, but one of the girls I talked to told me that Snoop Dogg actually went to this one, so it was a must on my list.

The place had a really cozy interior and was obviously smokey for a reason, but just like my experience I had at the pancake place, I noticed people were mostly using these handheld herbal vaporizers instead of the other traditional methods of smoking. It’s kind of like when someone shows you something that you’ve never heard of and then all of a sudden you start seeing it everywhere – it was nuts. The manager allowed me to take some pictures of the interior so I could put them in my album, so that was really nice.

After about 5 or so minutes of taking some really “mind-enhancing” pictures, I ordered a coffee to-go and was on my way.

Amsterdam Rocks!

Overall, I’d have to say that Amsterdam was one of the most laid back cities I’ve ever visited. Great food, super nice people, and a really nice atmosphere – I would go again in a heartbeat. If you ever end up going to Amsterdam, check out the places I went to and let me know what you think.

Also, don’t forget to get the stroopwaffel.

You’ll thank me later.

I have been a professional photographer for years taking pictures for corporate commercials and ads, personal weddings, and magazine covers. Throughout my years as a photographer, I have traveled to many countries in Southeast Asia, Europe, and South America.

Many people think that my job is all fun and easy because I get to see the world, but it is actually a lot of work and a lot of time away from home. Don’t get me wrong. I love my career and wouldn’t change it for the world, but it definitely has its downsides.

Often I get asked how I got started in the photography business and how armatures can break through into the professional scene. The corporate photography business is just like any other industry. It takes hard work, dedication, and long hours to carve out your own niche and start seeing success.

The first tip I have for you is to start a business. I started an LLC to run all of my photo shoots through. This way I am protected from liability against my clients.

The second tip I have to give beginner photographers is to buy a nice camera. Your camera inventory is everything in this business. If you don’t have the right lenses, flashes, or grips, you will never get the shot that you need to land a big client. Investing in a well-maintained inventory of camera equipment is key to being a successful photographer. Personally, I am a Canon fan and have use the D Mark series for years.

Today, my camera inventory consists of the Canon 5D Mark iii body and several L series lenses. Since camera equipment is constantly changing and being updated, inventory control is an important part of my business. I always make sure I trade in my older camera equipment and inventory in for the newest models. I’m not sure about Nikon, but Canon usually updates its bodies about every year and a half. That’s usually when my inventory turns and I get new equipment.

This concept only makes sense, right? You have to keep up with the latest technology; otherwise clients will go with another photographer. For instance, when the Mark series was equipped with video capabilities everyone wanted video weddings done. As a photography business, you have to keep up with these trends and there is no better way than updating your inventory.

I also like to analyze my business to make sure I am charging enough for my shoots. Obviously, traveling half way around the world isn’t cheap. So when I agreed to do a photo shoot in Milan, Italy, I had to come up with a price for the corporate client. I used a few business performance formulas to help calculate how much money I would make from the gig and how much it would cost me to shoot.

In short, this is really how you become a professional photographer. You work hard, invest money into your business, and analyze business plans and ventures that will let you grow. I know it is difficult starting out in this highly competitive field, but keep trying. I am so glad I did. I wouldn’t change my career path for anything! Good luck out there and let me know if you need any more tips!

When I shoot photos, I always aim to do my best. Of course, that includes the photos I take – but it also includes my personal appearance. People may see the image I present of myself, before they see the images I capture with my camera.

Traveling around the world for my work is an amazing experience, and it can be a challenge to keep my makeup looking fresh when I am on the go. Along the way, I’ve picked up a few tricks and tips to look my best while traveling the globe.

Bear down to the essentials

My luggage space is limited as I travel to different locations. I may only have a bag that has to hold my clothing, cameras and equipment. I have to find some space for my cosmetics. I learned a long time ago to toss anything that wasn’t essential. I always have a concealer, a good waterproof mascara, and lip balm with SPF. It’s nice when I can have extras, but these are my must-haves.

Stick with what you love

If you have a favorite product or two, buy in bulk! I’ve been there- you run out of your makeup must-have, and a replacement is nowhere to be found. Personally, my must-have is waterproof mascara. I keep a few extras at home and travel with two. I keep one in my camera bag and one in my suitcase. Mishaps abound when you travel, and your favorites can be hard to find on the road. That extra tube has saved me a time or two!

Consider what you will be doing. I might be in a sweltering, desert environment one week, and a humid, rainy mess the next. I need my makeup to keep up with me wherever I am. I tend to choose “stay put” versions of products for this reason. Eye makeup running in my eyes and smudging on my viewfinder is not only annoying – it could cost me the shot. A good smudge-proof mascara is a must for me.

Be prepared

Like I’ve said, I can be in any type of environment. If I think I might be in the heat for an extended time period, I’ll drop a small ice pack into my makeup bag to prevent any melting. You can easily find an inexpensive, reusable one made for use in lunchboxes. It’s the perfect size to drop into your purse or makeup bag. As a bonus, it’s so refreshing to apply cool makeup on a hot day!

Consider what tools pack the most impact

Don’t underestimate the power of the tools you use for your makeup. A good blush brush can last for years and even be used for bronzer or powder in a pinch. An eyelash curler and a coat or two of mascara instantly make me look awake and ready to go.

Look for dual purpose products

Space is at a premium when you are a traveling photographer so products that can move from day to night or serve a second purpose are definite winners to me.

• My concealer can be layered for extra coverage, or thinned out with a little lotion when I don’t need as much coverage.
• I only need one coat of mascara during the day, then just add a second coat at night.
• My lip balm protects with SPF and adds color and shine. I choose a bronze shade of blush to take the place of both bronzer and blush.

Looking my best on the go requires a little planning, but it’s well worth it to look and feel my best as I journey around the world doing what I love most.

Throughout my travel through Southeast Asia, Europe and America, I’ve see a lot of tragic things.  And so I have also gotten a bit wiser as I travel today.  One of the most tragic things I’ve seen during this time is the death of a little girl who got killed by a car accident when I was working in Toronto, Canada.  I literally saw it with my own eyes when a drunk driver hit that little girl on the side of the road in broad daylight.  I felt so helpless.  All I had was a camera in my hand and there was nothing I could do but stand in shock, anger and disgust.  So never think that thinks like these could not happen to you.

If you are also a photographer who works in Toronto, one of your most important tasks on your personal safety to-do list is to find a good Toronto injury law firm that specializes in seeking fair compensation for automobile accidents. This may seem a bit funny if you have never experienced car accidents because you may think “that would never happen to me”. The truth is, everyone who is either a driver or a passenger is probably at some risk of being injured in a car accident at some point. The question is: are you prepared for that time when you do get injured in a collision?

To explain this better, let us examine why automobile accidents do occur. Sometimes the driver could be drunk or on drugs which can affect his dexterity maneuvering the vehicle and even his judgment as to how do drive safely. There are also drivers who are attracted to speed and may enjoy driving at high speed regardless of the prescribed speed limit. Novice drivers can also be a hazard on the road especially when they are not used to driving that vehicle they are in or driving at fast speeds on roads and highways. And of course there are drivers who think that they can do what they want on the road, regardless of the consequences. There could be other reasons too, but for now these are the most basic reasons for car collisions.  The next thing you know, you could be planning for a perfect shot for your portfolio, and a drunk driver hits you.  I know I sound quite pessimistic about this matter, but the fact that I saw a little girl got hit in front of my very eyes really makes me a more cautious with these things today.

If you do end up in a car accident, you will probably need a good injury lawyer to handle your case right away. This is true if you suffered any kind of injuries but most especially if your injuries were severe. Along with a lawyer, you will also need to contact your insurance provider if you are covered by accident insurance. Your lawyer may have to coordinate with your insurance provider regarding the right compensation for your injuries.  This compensation may also cover the damage to your car after the accident has been investigated by the lawyer, the police, and the insurance company.

Sometimes, people get into automobile accidents but have no existing insurance coverage. This is one of the worst things that can happen to anyone but especially to motorists and passengers of motor vehicles who are on a fixed income and have minimal savings. If this is your situation, you should get a personal injury lawyer who can work for free until your lawsuit against the other party is settled or the court has reached a verdict to grant you adequate compensation. The lawyer will then take a percentage or fixed rate from the monetary compensation you get as his rightful cut for his legal services.  In any case, I hope your need for an injury lawyer will never come up.  But it’s always better to plan in advance than to be sorry.

If you’re looking for a new home in another country then of course you’ll start by looking at photographs of potential homes.  Often homes in other countries are set up very differently than those in the U.S., so a new homebuyer would do well to understand how they are designed before choosing a location or a potential home to go view.  Mortgage rates may also vary greatly when choosing a home abroad, so you need to ensure you’re getting the best home for your money by doing your due diligence and research on sites like Rateline.ca.

Checking Details

When looking at homes abroad, you may not see all the details in their listing and this is how photographs can help you. The old saying that “a picture says a thousand words, “is especially true when it comes to choosing a new potential home for you or your family. For example, you might note the size of the closets or windows, which are especially important when choosing a home in a city. If you’re looking at a home in a more rural setting, the outside areas such as porches, patios, and yards will be especially important to view ahead of time. Newer homes in the U.S. have been built with larger closets and larger windows for a homeowner’s convenience and comfort, but city homes in other countries may not offer these luxuries.  A photograph can give you an idea of these details.

Details like flooring can also be discerned through photographs.  In the U.S. many homes have carpeting or wood flooring, but in areas like France, parquet floors are often the norm.  A potential homebuyer would need to see how this type of flooring works for their needs and the overall décor of the home. Flooring is just one aspect of a home that can vary abroad though, and even the most eloquent prose can’t do a home the same justice that a good picture can.

Check Locale

When searching for homes abroad you may be unfamiliar with the locale, which is another great way that how photographs can help you make the right decision.  You may also be unfamiliar with the different kinds of mortgage rates, learn more about fixed vs variable rates here .  You can check the photos to see the view out the windows and note the proximity of neighbors.  You can also get an idea of the city or neighborhood, if it’s family-friendly or seems very busy at night.  Because online sites don’t always give you the best information when it comes to your potential new home’s location, these photographs can help.

Try to notice what you can with these photos as to the outside of the home, and not just the interior.  You want to be comfortable in your home at all times so having a good understanding of the surrounding neighborhood can tell you if a particular home is the right choice for you.  Be discerning in these ways when looking at photos of homes in other countries.  This will help you to narrow your search and will ensure you find the right home for you and your family.