Interview
with Unity Magazine
by David Louis McNamara

 
Aside from documenting rollerblading, you have worked with The Chicago Tribune, Lotus Magazine and Acclaim Entertainment. What is your most memorable or interesting experience as a photographer?

hmmm.. I just recently shoot some of the most interesting pictures of my career. I photographed an artist's collection of period woman's garments called Ophelia Rising. The images are quite beautiful which proved to me that my photography is multidisciplinary. These works that were shot in the span of 6 hours, are important for the artist and currently used with the show. I'm constantly shooting many things besides skating. I have even shot a couple weddings in which case I'll shoot over 2500 images in one day.

Do you have any up and coming projects besides being featured in Daily Bread and various other skate magazines?

well I'm constantly working on my fine art pieces, I have shows every year. In This last show I was one of 17 artists to do pieces for gallery in san diego. I wound up selling four pieces and I was very honored to show at the space. Some future project include an in depth portfolio capturing the essence of my subjects by portraits. I have a pretty big collection so far and I can't wait to share these appropriately diverse images.

 

"..I use the photo medium to visually communicate a thought or concept."
What are the best and worst aspects of being a photographer for a living? Please give examples.

The best thing about photography is the idea of expressing emotion. I am given this opportunity to communicate in a vastly different way than any other form of communication. I also like the idea of freezing time and holding on to a prime moment of life forever. I'm continuously amazed by photography and how this window is a preview of a whole other life. When I look at a pictures I find myself thinking about what it meant to make the picture; what happened before and after. I love pictures that tell this story.
How would you describe yourself?

I'm a fun, outgoing, and creative.

What other interests do you have besides photography. What do you get up to in your spare time?

I love design and the way you can create an emotion with a message through it. I enjoy going to live music shows, flirting with girls. If you can believe it I still blade as well. I do a ton of sole grinds and royales, oh and sometimes Ill throw an ally-oop acid.
Your photography encompasses multiple dimensions including architecture, fashion and portrait photography. Do you think this makes you more marketable as an artist (easier to find work) or do you simply enjoy capturing a variety of subjects?

I simple enjoy a multiple of subjects, I'm a young photographer and I feel very excited to shoot everything and try everything. I feel like if I have the thirst to try these differing subjects then there's absolutely nothing that will stop me. Also photographers tend to photograph their passions. I'm passionate about rolling, art, architecture, music, fashion and people. These are also the subjects that yield successful images for me.

Do you consider diversity to be important in photography?

I think diversity is important when your developing a style. I believe that trying different things yield creativity and helps train the photographic eye. Even though I have a multitude of differing images I still find my self pigeon holing into set photographic philosophies and practices.

Now I think if my photography career grow It will become more and more defined and narrow. This can be beneficial to a business brand. The brand is very important for business and a strong visual identity builds that.

Who or what inspired you to become a photographer?

My dad gave me the vision and lust for life I have today. I felt overwhelming emotion when my dad was sick for 5 years. These sights are the fuel for witch I create and make beauty from what I see. I carried these negative thoughts through my high-school years. I wanted to stop time and me being very active with my photo education I was able to do this on numerous occasions.

With me seeing this negitivity, I began to see all things more beautiful and special.

 
What advice would you give to anyone who aspires to be a photographer or would like to take it up as a hobby?

Motivation is everything. I've said this before, but I truly believe you can do any thing you put your mind to. When I was 16 I wanted to be published in Daily Bread, when I was 17 I wanted to be on staff, when I was eighteen I wanted to work in the office, when I was 19 I wanted Jonny Donhowe's job and now I have it. I feel like as I grow my goals change and blossom. That's important when you start with anything. Set achievable goals and stick to them.
just a couple of questions for info on the introduction-
age: 26
place of residence: San Diego, Ca
years as a photographer: 10 years, first published at 16..
and I now have 20 covers