Shooting The Mayor Of Newark
I know, it’s a terrible title for a post about a mayor who has done so much to eliminate violence in his city. The reason I’m okay with my post’s title is the fact that I know Mayor Cory Booker would even get a kick out of it. Let’s get into a little bit of the back story.
Last week I had the opportunity to work The Summit. The Summit is the culmination of Universal McCaan’s clients meeting up for a few days of informational engagements, networking and inspirational speeches delivered by some of the most unique individuals the world has to offer. Oh, it was in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, so that wasn’t too bad either. Most of the individuals that I had a chance of listening to (while filming) were leaders in their industry or creators of new markets and niches. The list of speakers included CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Sam Feist, Gloria Berger, Time’s Michael Duffy, Sandra Sobjeral, Foursquare Co-founder Naveen Selvaduraim, Sony’s Shawn Layden and my favorite speaker Mayor Cory Booker.
I had first heard of Mayor Booker by way of late night’s Conan O’Brien, where the two exchanged absurd bans upon one another’s permissions to fly into each other’s respective cities. This all stemmed from O’Brien’s remarks about the City Of Newark’s new healthcare system (which Mayor Booker had completely revamped). Throughout the Mayor’s presentation he wasn’t afraid to poke fun at himself or others for that matter. He understood why taking on Conan O’Brien could help keep the spotlight on the positive changes he had made in an otherwise negative city such as Newark. Newark’s tarnished past had been thoroughly rebuffed by Booker, with highlights that include the city’s first murder free month since 1961. Mayor Cory Booker’s speech left me both inspired to overcome any hardship set in my way and hopeful about some of the politicians that are currently in power. It was refreshing to see someone of political office be able to look at issues not from one side or two sides but from all sides, then act upon the gathered data. Talk about a sigh of relief within today’s political purgatory.
After his speech (and the crowd’s standing ovation), I met the mayor in the hallway and asked if I could snag a quick portrait. I had noticed some nice big windows near the dining area at the end of the hotel’s hall that would be excellent for a portrait. I had never been so nervous to take someone’s photo. It was not because of Mayor Booker’s political/social status, but rather because I knew I wouldn’t have the opportunity to have such amazing access to someone that no doubt has an enormous political future. Booker for president, 2016?
Played ball for Stanford, Doctorate from Yale Law, Mayor of Newark, Future Political Hall of Famer Mayor Cory Booker.
Josh Harmony Interview Teaser & Music Video
As a continuation of the Creators Series I continued in the vein of skateboarding. With the production help and camera aid of Aaron Smith and Skateboarder Magazine, we bring you a glimpse of what is sure to be an intriguing look into the life and creativity of one of skateboarding’s finest, Josh Harmony.
Old Flowers
Based in Salt Lake City, Utah, Old Flowers provides durable handmade leather iPhone cases. Created by Caleb Flowers, the craftsman comes from a history of skilled leather workers. Old Flowers is a new take on a time honored tradition.
Sundance for The Canyons
These are a few selects from a shoot for the Canyons Resort. They were responsible for the decoration and catering for Robert Redford’s opening dinner for the 2012 Sundance Film Festival.
The Singing Dunes
Two weeks ago, while taking a break from packing, I came across my pal David’s Facebook status. It said, “Headed out to the Kelso Dunes again, this time with the lady. Officially an addict now.” Realizing that the Kelso Dunes were located off I-15, on the way to my final destination of Park City, Utah, I quickly jumped at the opportunity to meet up with David. I departed LA at 4:30 AM with intentions of beating the rising sun. My dog Kingsley and I were on our way.
After taking a couple wrong turns en route to the dunes, I finally arrived at David and his girlfriend Jocelyn’s campsite. Situated at the base of the Kelso Dunes, their campsite was on the doorstep of the monster dunes. The tallest of the dunes swept up to an impressive 600 feet in height. The landscape was surreal, the sun was warm, the air crisp, a perfect day to have an adventure. We set off around 8:30 AM with our goal being the tallest of the dunes. After 25 minutes of hiking we started the last major (steepest) ascent on the face of the behemoth. This is when the singing started in.
Trying to describe the sound of the dunes is nearly impossible. But if I had to describe it, I would say it sounds like a rumbling squeak that comes from the depths of the dune and rattles up your spine. The cascading sand chimes down the slope as your footsteps set it free. I know this may sound ridiculous, but the singing dunes are quite the experience. Oh, and it’s really pretty to look at too! Enjoy.
Izzy Likes Sticks
This is my mom’s dog. She has a few vices in life. One of them is squirrels, another is birds, trees top the list and most of all… sticks. She cracks me up.
Just A Few Of My Favorite Faces
I got a new lens, light stand and an umbrella. These are the results. I must say, I’m thrilled with them.
Kalani is my brother, well, stepbrother but we don’t like labels like that. Our parents met because of our friendship, so they kind of owe us. We’ve been friends since 2nd grade and I still think he’s one of the most genuine people I know, the kid does what he wants.
My girlfriend Cris is amazing. She and I have been through a lot together. Everyday we make a point of telling one another reasons for why we love each other. It makes our relationship more meaningful and I know it makes us feel better about the people we are.
My father, Guy Loughridge, is the person who sparked my initial interests in video and photography. Whenever we went on a vacation he was sure to have one or two cameras with him. The best was when he had two cameras with him, because then I got to shoot what he was taking photos of. Yesterday was his birthday. Happy birthday dad!
I did a short portrait series and wrote a short ‘article’ about Kerry last summer. It’s on my blog if you want to look for it. Kerry has also been one of my best friends since elementary school. I always love seeing this guy when I’m back in Colorado. He easily tops the list of the funniest people I know.
Creators Series: Episode 1, Aaron Smith
Aaron Smith is professional photographer based in Los Angeles, California, specializing in skateboard culture, fashion, and portraiture. In this episode, Aaron discusses what influences his work ethic and how he has been able to become a successful photographer in his field.
Ryan Loughridge Media’s Holiday Gift Guide
The holidays are upon us, and that means its time to get you and your loved ones some kick ass gifts. This guide is a compilation of unique businesses that I have used or am familiar with. Some of them have some great holiday sales going on as well.
ThinkTank Photo Is my favorite camera bag manufacturer. Designed and tested by professional photographers, Think Tank bags and accessories are the best choice for hauling your gear. During their holiday sales event, one lucky person will win one of their Airport Security rollers filled with over 40 photography and other fun items donated by vendors from all over the world. They are also offering rebates on a number of other select bags and accessories and they have… yup, you guessed it, gift certificates! But here is the best offer, you can get a FREE bag with every order over $50 if you use the code AP-569.
PostalPix is an iPhone app that allows you to upload images directly from your phone to print. How simple is that?! But the coolest part of Postal Pix that I’ve noticed is the amount of options you have when selecting what media you want your images printed onto. Let me give you a hint, aluminum prints (very cool).
The Rider’s Project is just one deal after another. Their entire mantra is giving deals, for karma. That’s right, what better way to stock up on good karma than while getting some cool stuff. The Riders Project has daily deals on action sports apparel and accessories, with %100 of proceeds going to the charity of your choice. Now that is hard to beat.
Journeys Within holds a special place in my heart. Last year when Jeff Johns and I were traveling through Southeast while filming for Doc NOW Media‘s documentary project on Leprosy, we were lucky enough to be able to stay at the Journeys Within Bed and Breakfast in Siem Reap. Not only does Journeys Within offer incredible custom Southeast Asia tours to places such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Luang Prabang, Hanoi, Hue, Mandalay, Bagan, Angkor Wat and more, they also offer unique opportunities to leave those tourist hubs and get out into the countryside for an authentic experience to get to know the cultures and the people. It is an adventurer or photographers dream way to see that part of the world. So if you are thinking of getting a vacation for a the ultimate gift, look no further than Journeys Within.
Moo is a British printing firm with exceptional capabilities. Using sustainable paper and inks, they cater to the eco conscious consumer while delivering top notch products. I have used them twice this year alone. Each time I have been completely impressed with the results. For business cards for you are your loved ones or even an gift card, definitely check out Moo.
Prints by Ryan Loughridge: I am offering 30% off all of my prints until the end of December. Any and all images found on ryanlough.com and ryanlough.com/blog/blog are available for print. Please check the services page for the printing guides.
The Extension
While filming a short project that I am working about fellow photographer Aaron Smith, I decided to snap a few stills in the midst. One of the stops for the day was at Channel Street Skatepark. David Reyes, Angel Ramirez, Johnny Layton and the Element Am team descended on Channel Street for a few hours. This particular extension seemed to be the feature du jour, for subjects and photographers alike.
David Reyes, BS Disaster
Aaron Smith and an unknown grom, told you that extension was popular.
Nick Garcia, BS Tailtap
LOVE + GUTS & 30 Years of Thrasher: Art & Photography
Last night I cruised down to Costa Mesa for the LOVE + GUTS & 30 Years of Thrasher: Art & Photography exhibit at The Lab. With art from some of the biggest legends in skateboarding and a few of the best photos to have graced the pages of Thrasher, the night was bound in glory. Steve Caballero, Lance Mountain, Steve Olson, Pat Ngoho, Chris Senn and Ray Barbee all had art on display from the LOVE + GUTS group. I bought one of Caballero’s limited Planet of the Apes prints (stoked!). The plethora of skate photography in Thrasher’s 30 gallery was equal to the best history lesson of skateboarding you could ever ask for. The gallery was full of iconic images and images of icons. Outside on the stage, musical performances by Ray Barbee and The Restavrant put the exclamation mark on the evening.
In the beginning.
Still rolling strong.
Ray Barbee, getting technical.
Hillbilly thrash punk, The Restavrant.
Steve Olson has never been afraid to party.
R&R
Last week I was in Nevada, visiting my girlfriend’s family. Although she and I are from the same hometown in Colorado, we didn’t reconnect and make our lives interwoven until our adult lives. But when hanging out with eachother’s families we are constantly reminded of what it is to have come from special places. This photo of Cris’s father relaxing in his chair sums up all of those warm feelings. Enjoy.
Sneaky Nietzche at LACMA
I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to shoot the underground theatrical group Sneaky Nietzche at LACMA. The group mixes improve theater with live music and a dark undertone. I was helping some fellow film makers with a promo project for the group and snapped a couple frames. If you get a chance to see this group, don’t miss the opportunity, it’s a spectacle that will tickle all of your senses. Enjoy.
Welcome!
It’s been a long time coming. But ryanlough.com is finally up and running again and looking better than ever. There are still a few tweaks to be made here and there. I will hopefully have my old blog transferred in its entirety as well. All of ryanloughridge.wordpress.com‘s new home will now be ryanlough.com/blog/blog. So save it, bookmark it, subscribe to it and I will take care of the rest. Thank you! Enjoy!
Updates at Doc NOW Media
It’s been a crazy busy week here in LA. My roommates and I have been hard at work cutting reels, promo videos, photo galleries, business cards, websites and social media hogwash. Although I wish I had more to share with you right now. I can give you a taste of what’s been taking place. Head over to www.docnowmedia.com to have a sample.
Another Day In Ventura
Sometimes they are just hard to avoid.
Walking toward me so I can “throw a punch”.
Showing his love for the camera.
Én Vogue
Sunset with Cris
Cris wanted to carve squash, I told her that they are out of season and we should snap some photos instead. We walked to the end of my block, where I told her to jump into the grass. The sun was setting and this is what we got. A few different looks with a couple wardrobe interchanges. Enjoy.
A Few Days at the L.A. Times
During the Eddie Adams Workshop, last October, I won a special prize. I received an invite from the L.A. Times to come in and do some work with them. Last week I paid my visit to Times. Here is some of the work I was able to shoot during my two days with the awesome staff.
Mike Castro, a member of the Los Angeles Department of Public Works, inspects a piece of k-rail, on Feb. 16, 2011, on Manistee Drive, in La Crescenta. K-rail is used to divert rain waters which can be problematic in areas that have been struck by wildfires.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu addresses the crowd, on February 17th, at Santee Highschool, in Los Angeles, CA. Tutu, the Anti-Apartheid luminary spoke in reference to Black History Month and the future of human rights.
NBA Legend, Jerry West speaks at his statue unveiling ceremony, on February 17th, at the Staples Center, in Los Angeles, CA. The ceremony took place on the opening night of the NBA All-Star weekend, being hosted at the Staples Center.
Thank you to all the staff at the L.A. Times for spending your time and showing me the ropes.
Subject Matter -
I took a stroll this afternoon. I wasn’t looking for anybody, and that was the point. Enjoy.
(photos in chronological order)
Finding Madiba: Latest Installment
The latest and greatest webisode from the editing crew over at Finding Madiba Productions.
Click the link: http://vimeo.com/20046524
Human Nature Vs. Nature & Nature Vs. Nature
When I was driving on US 40 on Christmas day this year, I saw more death and carnage than a slaughter house. I like to call the stretch between Dinosaur, Colorado and Craig, “Death Highway”. One, because I have been very close to death while driving that stretch due to the amount of deer, elk and antelope. Two, because I have never seen so many deer, elk and antelope carcasses along a single stretch of tarmac. Fitting in with my juxtapositions project, I found the image of the deer sneaking across the road. I included the second photo to emphasize how remarkable wildlife is. They have to battle the elements day in and day out. Not to mention the fences, highways, farmland, cars, trucks, SUVs and hunting rifles. Respect nature, it works harder than you every day.
