Creating Art in the Age of Social Distancing

AKA: Why you should book a FaceTime session

2020 has sucked. I’m not gonna pretend that any of this is okay. 

But there have been some bright spots in all of the disappointment, stress, and unrest. 

When all of this COVID-19 stuff went down in March, I, like so many other artists, panicked. We build our livelihoods on human interaction and connection. What are we supposed to do when everyone is confined to their own homes? 

What has been so amazing in this Philly community, though, is how many artists are finding a way to create art in unconventional ways. For me, I decided to see if anyone in my circle would maybe, possibly, please-for-the-love-of-God, be interested in having me photograph their new, social-distancing life through the lens of their own camera. And so many of you jumped on board with this crazy idea and we found a way to document some realness in the madness. 

Enter: Facetime Photo Sessions. 

Yup, it’s exactly what it sounds like. We FaceTime, I work my magic in helping you get into natural poses, and then I start taking photos of you, your fur babies, your human babies, your partner, and even a few houseplants.

I’ve learned a lot about myself by doing these FaceTime sessions. When I first started out in photography I cared a lot about the gear I had, making sure it was up to par with what other photographers use.I bought countless presets and lenses (that I NEVER use) to try and elevate my work. But what I’m learning now is that it’s not about the gear or technical skill – it’s about the experience.

I make people feel comfortable in front of the camera and make them realize that getting your photos taken doesn’t have to be stiff or boring. It can actually be fun!

I can’t wait to get back to using my real camera again, but for now, thanks for trusting me to capture this strange time of life through FaceTime.