After a year living in Japan and reviewing over 10,000 photos, I realized that my favorites had a common theme: people. A collection of favorites varying from salary men to street kids to homeless to geishas-in-training, I realized that these regular people were what made my photographs art. Since then, people became the new focus of my photography, and I created Say Hai! Photo to re-create the passion that I had overseas.

I chose the name Say Hai! because it represents two important aspects in my photographic progression. Firstly, a homage to my Tokyo days, I always hoped that “Hai” would be the response I heard after asking permission to take a photo. Secondly, a play on words and homonym to our common greeting, I believe that sometimes all it takes is a “Hi” to break the ice. Some people tend to be camera shy, but a camera should never discriminate. I photograph all looks from all backgrounds, so if you’re interested in working together… just contact me and Say Hai!

My Photo Philosophy:

Photography has no rules, and I don’t follow any specific regimen. My photographic style originated on the streets – so, naturally, it tends to shifts towards the authentic and emotive, using heavy emphasis on the environment as a picture element and using juxtapositions and contrasts to showcase the subject.

I like to shoot pictures that capture a person’s personalityl, and the most successful photos are a collaborative process. Clients are not just subjects, but the most important element of a photograph; therefore, I value input and feedback from the people that I shoot. I prefer using interesting on-location backgrounds to authenticate the look that we’re trying to create. Shot from above, below, or from the front, back, or side, my goal is to shoot who you are or whoever you want to be.

Pricing:

Paid Option - I generally charge on a base hourly rate, but pricing varies depending on the project scope and whether prints are requested. Please contact me with your idea, and I can offer a price estimate.

Free Option - Beginning 2009, I have a limited amount of free portrait sessions available in exchange for appearing in my portfolio. You will receive a CD with all images from the shoot.

TFCD Option - If you are a photographer, make-up artist, or model and have an interesting concept you'd like to try, please contact me to discuss potential TFCD work.