Photography Courses

I’ve always been drawn to technology—even as a kid, I was the one taking things apart just to see how they worked. When I was a teenager, I naturally became the friend with a camera or camcorder, always documenting our adventures, family events, or even creating music videos and art projects with friends. Over time, my collection of camera gear grew, and so did my interest in capturing moments—people began to notice my work and started offering to pay me for their projects. At first, photography and videography were side hustles, but in 2018, at the advice of close friends and family, I took it to the next level by launching a website and building a presence on social media to market my services. When the pandemic hit in 2020, I decided to get serious—I formed an LLC and opened a business account to help supplement my 9-to-5 job. By 2022, the demand for my work had grown so much that I was able to go full-time as a professional photographer and videographer. As for choosing New Orleans as my home base, it just made sense—this is where I grew up, so I’m deeply familiar with the culture, the landscape, and I have my support system here. New Orleans has this vibrant energy and incredible mix of cultures, music, and artistry that fuels my creativity. There’s always something happening here, and it’s the perfect place for someone who wants to capture authentic, memorable moments for people from all walks of life.

What I love most about capturing weddings in New Orleans is honestly everything that makes this city such a one-of-a-kind place. The culture here is vibrant and alive, and it’s reflected in every wedding—from the unique traditions and historic architecture to the incredible neighborhoods and venues. I really appreciate how much green space and street art you find, plus there's always amazing food and non-stop dancing. But if I had to pick a favorite, it would be the second lines and those unforgettable brass band exits. There’s nothing like the energy of an African-American wedding featuring the Zulu Tramps joining the celebration—it’s a moment of pure joy and unity that you just can’t find anywhere else. New Orleans is a city where people know how to celebrate love amongst family and friends, and it’s an honor for me to be able to capture those moments for couples in such a special setting.

When it comes to wedding photography and videography, my style is actually a mix, and I think that flexibility is really important. I primarily lean into documentary and traditional styles, capturing the day as it unfolds and making sure all the classic moments are preserved. But I also like to bring in touches of editorial and fine art, depending on the portion of the day and what feels right for the couple and setting. Of course, we always get the must-have posed and staged shots—the ones that make it into every album and hang on the walls. But honestly, the bulk of my work is candid. Those are the images that really tell the full story: aunts wiping away tears, bridesmaids cracking up, the groom fidgeting with anticipation, parents overwhelmed with joy, and kids being themselves. My goal is to document not just the formal portions of a wedding, but all the genuine emotions and in-between moments that make each celebration truly unique.

That’s such a hard question because every couple I work with is special to me, and each wedding touches me in a different way. But if I had to pick the most memorable one, it would have to be Jemiah and JoJo’s wedding. As someone who’s always loved characters and is a reformed space nerd, I felt truly connected to their Star Wars-themed celebration. They went all out—from Lightsaber bouquets and themed socks, to Storm Trooper cufflinks, a Millennium Falcon engraved ring box, and a Death Star guestbook. Every detail was thoughtful and creative. This one stands out even more for me because I have a personal and professional connection with JoJo. He was actually a former colleague of mine, and over the years, he’d often come to me for advice about relationships and life. I got to watch his journey from meeting and falling in love with Jemiah, so being chosen to document their big day was a huge honor. Also two of my closest friends, Tasha and Thomas Wright, catered the event so it was a celebration for all of us. The venues were also memorable—JoJo got ready at the Firehouse Loft, Jemiah at the Residence Inn on St. Charles, and their ceremony was held at the Tree of Life, which happened to be my first outdoor wedding venue ever. This was also the first wedding where I shot a First Look, making it extra special in my career. It’s a wedding I’ll never forget.

I think the key to making couples feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera starts with building a solid rapport. I take time to make sure there’s open and honest communication so couples feel they can really be themselves and share their thoughts with me. I try to keep things light and playful, which goes a long way in helping people relax and enjoy the moment. At the same time, I know how important it is to balance that with a sense of professionalism—I want couples to feel confident that I have control of the session and that they can trust my knowledge and experience. I always encourage couples to give me their input—what they like, what makes them nervous, and even ideas they might have—so I can blend their desires with my expertise and creative eye. My goal is always to make sure their expectations are not just met, but truly exceeded, and that it’s a fun, memorable experience for them, not just another photo shoot.

While all styles of photography really come down to the same core principles—like exposure, composition, and perspective—my approach definitely shifts depending on what I’m shooting. With headshots, I focus on precision and detail. I’ll prioritize a sharper lens, a higher resolution camera, and I usually use a tripod and a dedicated lighting setup to get a polished, professional look. With weddings, it’s all about versatility and being ready for anything. I tend to work with a mix of fast prime and zoom lenses, ranging from wide to telephoto, and I use camera bodies that allow me to quickly adapt to different situations throughout the day. Because I’m constantly moving, I try to keep my setup as light and mobile as possible, so I don’t bring a ton of extra gear like softboxes, lights, or tripods. Boudoir is more about creating a comfortable, flattering environment and capturing genuine confidence. For these sessions, I use natural, soft lighting, pay a lot of attention to posing, and work with faster prime lenses like 35mm, 50mm, or 85mm to get a beautiful, shallow depth of field. Camera resolution isn’t as critical for boudoir—what matters more is how relaxed and empowered my client feels. One of the great things about mastering different styles is knowing when to blend them—using some boudoir posing or headshot lighting tricks for a bridal portrait, for example. Having experience with each style really lets me get creative and provide more variety to every client’s gallery.

For me, everything about ensuring privacy and comfort during boudoir shoots starts with the client. Before anything else, I have a real conversation with them—asking about their comfort level, how they want to be portrayed, and if they’d like a companion with them on set. If they’re comfortable with an assistant, I make sure it’s someone they’re okay with. It all begins by checking in on how they feel and understanding their reasons for wanting to do a boudoir shoot. When we’re shooting, professionalism is absolutely essential. Because boudoir is so intimate, I avoid making comments about how good or beautiful someone looks. Instead, I provide positive, action-oriented reassurance—like letting them know their photos are coming out great and that they’re doing a fantastic job. I make it clear that this is their shoot, and they’re in control every step of the way. I truly believe boudoir models should be seen as clients, not just customers—and that my role is to support their comfort and safety. During my shoots, the privacy is non-negotiable: no one else comes through or interrupts the session, so the client can relax and feel completely secure. Ultimately, my goal is to create a space where clients feel confident, respected, and entirely in charge of their experience.

For me, staying organized and managing the fast-paced schedule of a wedding day is one of the most crucial parts of being a wedding photographer. I start by collecting as much detailed information about the day as possible. I provide my couples with a comprehensive questionnaire that covers everything—must-have shots, names of wedding party members, hashtags, vendors, officiants, stylists, the designers of the dress and tux, preferred photography style, and a full itinerary. Even events that don’t directly require my services are helpful to know, so I can use that time to prepare for what’s next. Once I have all those details, I create a custom itinerary for the day, which I share with the couple, the planner, and the key members of the wedding party. Keeping everyone on the same page really helps the day run smoothly and ensures nothing gets missed. I also provide helpful links to resources on my blog about posing and the flow of a wedding day, so couples feel comfortable and prepared. During the wedding, my associate photographer acts as both a second shooter and a coordinator, helping organize group shots, move equipment, and communicate with everyone involved. When it comes to my gear, I’m always prepared with backup equipment: extra batteries, lighting, cameras, and lenses, so I never have to worry about technical issues slowing us down. By planning ahead, communicating clearly, and always having a backup plan, I make sure I’m organized and ready to capture every important moment, no matter how hectic the wedding day gets.

My process for working with couples who have a unique vision or nontraditional wedding ideas is rooted in open communication and honesty. Right from the start, I encourage couples to share their ideas and inspirations with me. If there’s ever something I feel I can’t execute well, I’m upfront about it—but honestly, I’m always excited to try something new and innovative. I have a pretty nontraditional personality myself, so I genuinely welcome creative or unconventional approaches. For example, I once second shot at an Indian and hip-hop fusion wedding, and it was such an amazing experience. It really helped that the couple clearly communicated their vision and gave us insight into what moments were most important to them, so we could do their story justice through the photos. Ultimately, I want my couples to know that I’m open-minded, collaborative, and ready to work together to capture their wedding in a way that reflects who they are—however unique or nontraditional that might be.

When it comes to commercial photography, one of my favorite types of projects is shooting automobiles for auctions. Growing up, my friends and I were all really into cars, so now, as a photographer, getting to shoot rare, vintage, antique, and luxury vehicles feels incredibly rewarding—not just financially, but also because of the nostalgia and excitement it brings. There’s something special about being around these unique vehicles, documenting all the details that make each one stand out. Over the years, I've photographed well over a hundred automobiles for sales and auctions, which has given me a ton of experience in knowing exactly how to showcase every angle and highlight the features that draw in buyers. What makes it even better is the opportunity to meet collectors, enthusiasts, and other like-minded people who share that same passion for cars. It’s a niche I really enjoy, and I’m always excited when a new automotive project comes my way.

While a lot of the core principles—like lighting, white balance, exposure, perspective, and composition—apply to both photography and videography, my approach is definitely different for each. With wedding films, my focus is on telling the story of the day in a cinematic way, highlighting both big moments and the little details that make the day unique. Films require more continuous light sources and rely heavily on equipment like tripods and stabilizers to keep footage smooth and steady. Audio is another huge component, since capturing vows, speeches, and music really brings the wedding experience to life for couples later on. When I’m shooting stills, I have a bit more flexibility with my creative techniques. I use flashes and strobes when needed, and I can play around more with lighting and composition to capture a single, powerful moment. Editing is also different—photography allows for more creative cropping and retouching, which isn’t always possible with video. One of the big advantages with video is that I’m able to capture continuous moments—including candid reactions, laughter, and sounds—that might be missed with a still photo. On the other hand, photos are better for creating iconic, timeless images that can be printed, shared, and cherished. In the end, stills and films really complement each other. Using both helps me paint a complete picture of the wedding day—not just how it looked, but how it sounded and felt.

I offer photo booth rentals as part of my services, and I have a great team of guys who handle the setup, operation, and breakdown of the booths. Whenever my schedule allows, I also like to be hands-on myself with installation and making sure everything runs smoothly. Photo booths have become so popular at events because they provide a really fun and interactive way for guests to create memories. They give people the freedom to be silly, spontaneous, and relaxed in front of the camera—sometimes capturing moments and personalities that might not show up in the more formal wedding or event photos. Plus, with features like instant prints and video snippets, photo booths offer guests another way to take home keepsakes from the event. Overall, they’re an extra layer of entertainment and a great way for everyone to get involved and make lasting memories.

Growing up in New Orleans, we deeply understand the local culture and traditions. This allows us to capture authentic moments, like the unfolding of a second line or the energy of a brass band exit. We focus on vibrant colors, historic architecture, food, music, and the unique way people celebrate here. By blending our knowledge of local customs with our storytelling style, we help couples relive not just their wedding, but the genuine New Orleans experience that made it unforgettable.

Honestly, my favorite location or backdrop in New Orleans really depends on the vibe my client is looking for—I always try to match the setting to their unique theme and aesthetic through good communication. That said, if I’m being a bit biased, as a Scorpio and a water sign, I absolutely love shooting on Lake Pontchartrain, especially near Breakwater Park and West End Point at sunset. The water, the colors, and the wide-open sky make for some truly magical images. I also have a special place in my heart for the French Quarter—shooting around St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, you find so much history and character. The area surrounding Cabrini Playground is another favorite of mine because it offers so many backdrops in one spot: from old brick and iron fences to colorful houses with those classic New Orleans shutters. And you’re just a short walk or drive away from the Marigny and Armstrong Park, which are perfect for adding variety to a session. New Orleans is full of amazing spots, but what matters most to me is finding the right one to help tell each couple’s unique story.

When it comes to equipment, I’m pretty selective and always look for gear that’s highly rated, exceptional in quality, and, most importantly, both versatile and durable. I’ve found that Sony fits my needs best, especially since I often do hybrid shooting—capturing both stills and video. Sony cameras offer the perfect combination of top-notch photo and video capabilities all in one body. Their technology and innovation, along with the accessibility of their high-resolution, professional-quality cameras and lenses, have really helped me achieve amazing results for my clients. Beyond my main camera system, I make sure to have all the essential equipment for any genre of photography I’m hired for. That means tripods for real estate shoots, parabolic softboxes for portrait work, and a blend of portable and studio strobes, plus powerful speedlights for lighting flexibility. For video and special effects, I use RGB LED continuous studio lights, and I rely on wireless triggers for remote control of my strobes. I also keep a variety of backdrops, lighting stands, and just about every tool you’d expect from a professional photographer and videographer. All this gear isn’t just about having the latest tech—it’s about making sure I have what I need to bring any creative vision to life, no matter the situation. It allows me to be prepared, adaptable, and always deliver professional results.

Handling unpredictable situations, like bad weather or last-minute changes, really comes down to thorough planning and clear communication. As the wedding day approaches, I always keep an eye on the weather forecast and stay in close contact with the couple. If it looks like it might rain and the couple is comfortable, sometimes we’ll embrace it—shooting with umbrellas or even using the rain itself as a creative prop for some truly unique photos. For any last-minute changes, communication is key. I always try to keep our day as flexible as possible. That means having processes in place to condense or shift session times and having a backup plan for both locations and travel routes. When I consult with couples, I also suggest building in a little extra time for each part of the day, just in case there are delays or unexpected changes. Ultimately, my goal is to stay adaptable and keep the day as stress-free as possible for the couple. No matter what curveballs come our way, I’ll be ready to roll with it and make sure we still get beautiful, meaningful images.

The biggest advice I give couples when planning their wedding photography or videography is to really do your homework and explore your options. Take the time to research photographers, review their packages, and, most importantly, figure out the style and look you want for your wedding images. Once you know your vision, communicate it clearly to the photographer whose work exemplifies that style. Don’t hesitate to send examples—from Pinterest boards to YouTube videos—so I can fully understand what you’re drawn to. I also highly recommend scheduling an engagement session if your timeline allows. Engagement sessions offer so many benefits. Not only do you end up with beautiful photos for your wedding invites, save the dates, website, and announcements, but it also gives us a chance to work together before the wedding day. It helps you get comfortable in front of the camera and provides a little “practice round” for posing, which can make a big difference when the big day arrives. Another suggestion I like to offer is to consider doing a first look, even though it’s not traditional for everyone. First looks are becoming really popular because they have a lot of advantages. The primary benefit is that it gives you and your partner a private, unrushed, and intimate moment together before the ceremony—just to connect and take it all in. Plus, we can get most, if not all, of the formal photos done ahead of time. That means you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying your reception and celebrating with your guests, instead of being pulled away for pictures after the ceremony. The whole day tends to feel more relaxed and organized as a result. Ultimately, my advice is to focus on clear communication, stay open to ideas that will make your day more enjoyable, and trust the process. The more prepared and comfortable you feel, the better and more authentic your wedding photos and videos will be!

One of the most memorable behind-the-scenes moments I’ve experienced on a wedding day actually happened right in the middle of a ceremony. Everything was going smoothly inside this beautiful old church, filled with friends and family, when suddenly—the power went out. We were plunged into near darkness right as the couple was about to exchange their vows. Instead of panicking, we quickly sprang into action. I talked with the officiant and the couple to keep everyone calm, then brainstormed how we could make the most of the situation. Someone had the brilliant idea to use car headlights for light. We opened the big church doors and a guest drove their vehicle right up to the entrance, beaming the headlights straight down the aisle. The natural light poured in, creating a dramatic, beautiful effect that actually fit the mood perfectly. The couple loved how it added an unexpected and almost cinematic touch to their ceremony. Those images, with the couple silhouetted in the headlight beams and the golden glow flooding the pews, turned out to be absolutely stunning and totally unique. It was a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected moments can create the most memorable photos, as long as you stay calm, think creatively, and work as a team.

There are definitely some exciting trends happening in wedding and portrait photography right now. One of the biggest things that excites me is the rise of drone photography—it allows us to capture weddings and locations from angles that just weren’t possible before. The aerial perspective doesn’t just add a wow factor, it also brings a cinematic vibe to wedding albums and highlight reels. I’m also a big fan of the growing popularity of first looks. They’re not only a beautiful way for couples to share a private, emotional moment before the ceremony, but they also help the entire day run a lot more smoothly. Getting those intimate reactions on camera makes for some of my favorite, most heartfelt images. Another trend I love is the editorial, magazine-style approach to shoots and editing. Couples are asking for bold, high-fashion-inspired portraits and dramatic lighting, and I enjoy the creativity that goes into crafting those shots. Destination weddings and grand, luxury events are also becoming more common, and they’re a dream for photographers. The environments are breathtaking, the styling is on another level, and the photos we can create in those scenarios are just incredible—plus, they often come with the benefit of bigger creative budgets. Overall, I’m excited to see couples getting more adventurous and intentional about the way they tell their wedding stories. It pushes me as a photographer to continually innovate and bring new artistic elements to my work.

While my professional work has definitely honed my skills and turned me into more of a technician behind the camera, I never want to lose sight of photography as a creative outlet—it’s still what drew me into this field in the first place. A lot of my inspiration actually comes from random ideas I encounter, whether it’s scrolling through social media, flipping through magazines, or watching films. When something catches my eye—maybe it’s a bold pose, an interesting play of shadows, or an unusual composition—I jot it down or screensave it. When I have downtime, I like to experiment with these ideas, especially in portrait or boudoir work. I have a handful of models I shoot with regularly, and they’re always game to try something new, whether it’s challenging lighting setups or unconventional posing. This experimentation keeps everything feeling fresh and adds new tools to my creative arsenal. Even outside of work, I love trying out new gear, editing software, and lighting equipment. I’ll challenge myself to shoot in difficult conditions—low light, mixed temperatures, unusual locations—just to see what I can pull off. By pushing the boundaries on my own time, I develop techniques that ultimately benefit my clients’ sessions. I also follow online forums and tutorial channels (Youtube university for the win) to pick up tips, tricks, and inspiration, which helps keep my technical skills as sharp as my creative ones. Another big way I stay engaged is by developing a photography course. This project is incredibly rewarding because it forces me to break down not only the technical aspects—like settings, gear, and lighting—but also the specifics of each genre, whether it’s weddings, portraits, boudoir, or commercial work. Creating this curriculum has helped me realize where my strengths are and where I can grow, and it’s pushed me to revisit techniques I haven’t used in a while. I find that teaching—or even preparing to teach—makes me reflect more critically on my own workflow and broadens my understanding of photography as an art form. Ultimately, what keeps me going is the drive to always become better and to help others grow too. Seeing a creative experiment turn into a new signature style, or watching a student’s progress, reignites my excitement for what I do. It also helps keep the routine of client work from feeling repetitive and ensures I’m always pushing my own boundaries—artistically and professionally. So, whether I’m shooting just for me, learning something new, or sharing what I know, I make a conscious effort to keep creativity, education, and experimentation at the heart of my practice. That’s what keeps me truly inspired, both as an artist and as a person.