Values we hold as a Studio
Photoshop and Editing
I believe in the beauty of authentic real life. I also believe in Murphy's Law: what can go wrong will go wrong at the least opportune moment.
My general policy is that I will use photo editing tools to edit out pimples, cuts, scratches, flyaway hairs, and other temporary distractions. If you could fix it in thirty seconds in a mirror, I will edit it out.
I will not make edits that alters how someone or something naturally exists in the world.
Representation
“I really believe there are things nobody would see if I didn’t photograph them.”
— Diane Arbus
As an LGBTQIA+ artist myself, I understand that many different people in the world are facing many different perceptions and biases.
I also understand the power that media - specifically photography - has to tell stories, create narratives, and paint pictures. This power has a very real effect on the ways we perceives ourselves and others.
In my studio, we have a few rules:
- You belong here exactly as you are. My space is safe for you.
- The way you are represented matters.
- I foster an environment where collaboration, inclusivity, and compassion are the most important tenants.
No Artificial Intelligence
I do not use Generative AI for my professional projects, full stop.
Some projects will be processed through an AI-powered denoising tool that is not generative and does not create a derivative image. No elements are added to the photo, the tool simply helps bring out the quality of the images.
I will occasionally use AI for things in my personal life, though I try to avoid it given the environmental impact.
When in doubt, you'll get the best product from real life human beings.