Martin O'Connor Photography Blog Page
E-mail: MOCPhoto@comcast.net
2011 - 2012 Nashville Ballet with your's truly and Artistic Director Paul Vasterling
Seniors and the Art of Dance
Recently I've had several students ask me to photograph them in a non traditional "Senior" portrait style. The following are just a few examples. Enjoy.
Portraits in the Fall... still a favorite of mine.
Historic Cedarwood - Nashville, TN
Historic Cedarwood is one on those wonderful treasures you discover if you're lucky. We recently photographed a wedding there and thought a few images on our blog would be appropriate. Be sure to watch the attached video for more. Our thanks to Tasha and David plus a heartfelt congratulations.
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Stolen Moment.... it speaks for itself.
20 years ago.... yes, I know, it's a lot of time, I started working with a new talent in town. Her name then was Kaylee Scott. She asked me to work with her in a new venture. Starting a school of performing arts was not exactly a safe thing to do, but I jumped in with lots of energy and willingness. The result, a long term relationship that goes way beyond business and photos. The most important things in life truly can't be represented with money and stuff. Thanks Kaylee, I'm forever in your debt. It's been fun the first twenty, now let's see what the next twenty bring!
Bridal Portrait - Dancer
For those of you who know me well, the attached video is not an unusual occurrence for me. The bride is a long time friend and artist who graciously picked me to photograph her wedding. She could have chosen from hundreds of other people in this town who hold cameras in their hands, but she trusted me because I do it for a living. There is a difference despite what you might read or hear. Thanks Katie, you were beautiful on this occasion, and your wedding day. :)
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Portrait of an Artist
Taking me back to my basic love, good light and talented people. Thanks for calling Steve, it was great to see and work with you again.
Cinderella
Wellness Day
It's always rewarding to see your work in a different light.
It was 40 years ago today.... okay, that's not exactly, true but you get the idea. Party on Fab Four!
Diva and Davis
Nashville has so much variety and in many cases, they know more than one or two chords. Yes it is possible! that's one of the man reasons I enjoy working with Diva and Davis. Check them out sometime, you won't be disappointed.
Body and Light
During the cold weather conventional work has a tendency to slow down. Sometimes that's a good thing and it allows me to jump back into my passion. With that in mind, enjoy the images below. My thanks to the NB artists who took time out of their busy schedules to work with me.
Swan Lake
Unlike what one might see on a Hollywood influenced movie, the Nashville Ballet presented an emotionally and visually beautiful production of Swan Lake. It didn't require quick cuts, backstage drama that could curl your hair (or other parts or your body for that matter), an R rating, and many other things one might expect. In this instance, I knew at all times whose feet belonged to who. Call me old school, but I enjoy the real thing. Movies are great too, but going with the basics has a time honored track record that can't be beat. Thank you ladies and gentleman of the dance company, it was a rich and rewarding experience.
Movement and Flow
I've gotten a bit behind lately in my blog stuff but I hope the wait was worth it to those who keep up with me. Just before Nutcracker season (madness) set in, a wonderful artist from the Nashville ballet was kind enough to work with me. All the ideas you see depicted are hers; I just served as the very lucky guy who got to capture them. Be sure to check out the attached video, it has more to show. Thanks Molly!
Seniors in the Fall
The fall season comes and goes so quickly but luckily for me, this year we were able to pull out just a bit more time a bit more color. Thanks Haleigh, you look great! Be sure to check out the attached video.
Scarritt in the Fall
A beautiful Fall day and wedding at Scarritt. Enjoy the images and video.
CARMEN - Dance Theatre of Tennessee, Christopher Mohnani, Artistic Director
Need I say more? Brief examples from Dance Theatre of Tennessee's recent production at Ingram. For more information on this company and organization please go to the following: www.dancetheatretn.org.
Definition and Excellence...
I've been working recently with artists from a local university. What a distinct pleasure to be in the midst of people who strive for artistic excellence and a bit of fun too. Thank you ladies, we'll do it again soon I hope.
Sewanee
Sewanee or as it's known, THE University of the South, is an experience for all to witness. I've visited in the past for music and portrait related events but this time, it was a full blown wedding. Even though we've witnessed the hottest summer on record for many years, this particular day, we were granted a break. It was still very hot, but not as hot as it could have been. Either way, the bride was beautiful and everyone involved had a great day.
Informal Portraits
Informal portraits are the most fun, even when the weather is determined to beat you down. Thankfully, Racheal and Chad stayed cool the entire time. Thanks guys, you were great and the wedding will be even better!
Nashville In Motion
Jennifer Harwell, the artistic director of Nashville In Motion, invited me to photograph their recent concert benefiting Third World Adoption. As expected, I was treated to variety of wonderful artists all bringing their own unique style and perspectives. Please enjoy the images and the accompanying video.
Body and Light Continued.
I continue to be in awe of the human body and how expressive it can be. Thank you Kelsey.
Dance and Fine Art Part Deux
Caught or stolen moments in movement and time. Thank you Andrea.
Dance Theatre of Tennessee - Christopher Mohnani , Artistic Director
I was able to attend and photograph the premier performance of Dance Theatre of Tennessee in July 2010. Always exciting to see new entities take flight. Be sure to check out the attached video as well. Thanks Christopher, it was wonderful.
FSPA Alumni
I recently had the chance to work with three FSPA alumni. Now that I think of it, I've known these dancers for a long time. Yes, I have to admit, I'm getting a bit older and hopefully wiser as a result. If that's the case, it's been worth it based on the following results. All of the girls have become mature and beautiful artists and I expect continued great things from them as the years go on. Thank you all for giving me time to work with you and just a note, the following images are brief examples. Please click the video link to see more.
Me and the Master
A once in a lifetime experience, meeting and working in a Master class with Lois Greenfield.
Peter Pan - Franklin School of Performing Arts Spring 2010
The FSPA Spring Concert was a major success as always. Congratulations to all involved!
Mountain Laurel Studios Dance Concert 2010
This past weekend I had the opportunity to photograph Mountain Laurel Studio's Spring Performance. It was a two part affair and what you see below is from the Breast Cancer Awareness Portion of the concert. To see more highlights, please click the video link. It's just a small preview of what took place, but I thought it would be fun to post. So much more to come! Many thanks to Heidi Longwith for allowing me to be a small part of a great production.
Dance and Fine Art
This week marks another moment when I got to work with a artist who has kept up with my work for some time. We've crossed paths thanks to the Franklin School of Performing Arts and MTSU. It's so gratifying to know your images help motivate others to continue in the arts. Thanks Madi, I think you look beautiful in these shots. The video will tell you more.
Kelly and Phillip
Who knew that this wedding would take place on the weekend of the most historic flood of our lifetime? May, 1, 2010
Sydney
What can I say, we had a great time working with Sydney on a beautiful day. Thanks so much for asking me to be a part of this time in your life. You have a very bright future ahead of you!
University School of Nashville just finished their 2010 Spring Dance Concert. I think a good time was had by all Check out the video highlight when you have a chance and thanks everyone for allowing me to work with you this year.
Travis
A great shoot and a great musician. Thanks Travis, I knew there was more than one guitar player in town that knows more than 3 chords!
Centennial Youth Ballet Spring Concert
Just finished shooting a dress run through of CYB's Spring Concert. A great way to kick off the season, beautiful weather, beautiful dancers. Be sure to check out the attached video as well.
PS This is only a sample, the rest can be seen by going to the Online Preview Link of this site and clicking on Dance.
Spring in the Air
Spring is in the air for sure now, and so are Senior portraits. Thanks Natalie, you looked amazing! Be sure to check out the video of my favorites.
Schermerhorn Spring Soiree
Recently I was contacted by Bruce Pittman and Heather Martin regarding the Schermerhorn Spring Soiree. The event was designed to showcase the Schermerhorn Symphony Center as a destination site for a special events such as weddings, receptions and corporate functions. Of course I've been there to hear Nashville's wonderful symphony orchestra and even covered some other types of events. This evening however, the team (Ellen, Heather, Allison, Bruce, and Lori), outdid themselves. Bringing in some of Nashville's best know event support services, Symphony Hall coordinated every one and made the hall shine. I can't begin to put it in words so just watch the attached video and marvel at what can be done. Thanks for allowing me to be a small part of it!
A Follow Up with the Newborn 2010
Not long ago, I posted a few images from Leslie and Jefferson's latest arrival. I thought I would let you see some of the images we used to document the before and after. I think the attached video speaks for itself. Enjoy!
Playing By Air Part Deux
Well everyone, Jacob and his crew have done it again! Just when I thought it was safe to go outside, the gang from Playing By Air Productions got me back into the studio for another installment of "what's going to happen this time." As usual, the energy was high and the creativity unleashed. Enjoy the images and be sure to see the attached video at the end.
University School of Nashville 2010 Dance
I've been active with the University School of Nashville's Dance department for some time now and this year I now have the luxury of blogging. We just completed some preliminary work for the 2010 concert so I thought I would post a few images.
From the simple to the simply outrageous!
Just when you think you've seen it all, something new comes my way. Everyone knows how much I love dancers in the air, well I can now add guitars, violins, fiddles, (you decide), and the people that play them. I'll also never look at a didgeridoo the same way. My thanks to Jacob Weiss and the artists of Playing By Air Productions; it was a blast meeting and working will all of you. I'm featuring a few images here but to see more, click the video link at the end of this blog, you won't be disappointed!
Skinner Chapel - Scarritt Campus
For many years I've photographed on the Scarritt Campus in Nashville. Wightman Chapel is very well known for weddings so when I was contacted to do a wedding there in February, I immediately assumed it was to be held there. Well, it's never too late to learn something new, and this was no exception. There is a lovely small space named Skinner Chapel that is perfect for small intimate wedding events. If Wightman seems too overwhelming, this is the location for you . In addition to this, the professional staff at Scarritt can provide a wonderful reception site as well. The wedding couple gave me the opportunity to sample the food and I can tell you, it's incredible the job they are doing there. Sally Cornell and her staff are to be commended for the new directions they're providing so don't hesitate to contact them when you have a chance. You won't be sorry!
For more information, please go to the following link and get in touch with Sally Cornell and her staff.
http://www.scarrittbennett.org/weddings/default.aspx
Portraits in Motion
Not long ago I posted a notice on one of my blogs regarding a new series of images entitled "Portraits in Motion." Combining my favorite lighting techniques with dancers, I've set out on my quest. Luckily for me there's an incredibly wonderful group of artists in town willing to help me achieve this vision. For the past few weeks, several individuals have given me their time, talent, beauty and artistry to make this idea a reality and take it way past what I ever dreamed. Thank you ladies, I'm forever in your debt and hope that my efforts do you justice. The patience and dedication you show to your art form inspires me beyond words. For all the people out there who love images that have been over enhanced to the point of absurdity, I make no apologies. These images are done in camera and rely on the time honored technique of beautiful light and beautiful subjects. No megabytes were counted or harmed in the making of these images. Less Is More.
To see more from this shoot, please check out the video link at the end of this segment.
NB2
Recently, 3 members of Nashville Ballet 2 asked me to work with them. They are currently updating their dance portfolios for future auditions and the many other things that dancers have to prepare for in the course of their careers. After I had finished their original needs, I asked them if they would let me take some of their skills and help me with some of my current ideas and directions. Here are just a few and if you would like to see more, please click the NB2 link at the end of this segment and and enjoy a video presentation of their artistry. Thanks Alex, Rachel, and Katie, you were so professional and beautiful to work with. PS I you would like, please click the HQ feature in the video to see a larger picture
Please click on the above link to see more from this shoot.
FSPA Modern Concert 2010
The Franklin School of Performing Arts performed their 2010
Modern Dance Concert Recently and of course, yours truly was there to cover it.
I have a few images here but to see more, please go to the following link:
and check out the video highlight. So much more to come when I
deliver the finished image disk to FSPA. Thanks again everyone for a great
performance!
FSPA Concert Highlight Video
Children's Health Crisis for Nashville Public Television
Had the recent pleasure of working with Brian O'Neill at NPT. He is currently doing a project on Children's Health Crisis for Nashville Public Television. I was asked to photograph children of various ages to eventually be used in several promo spots. I have a few examples here but to really see Brian's vision at work, please go to the following link. http://www.youtube.com/nptcreative.
Thanks again Brian, it's nice to work on projects like this. It gives me a special feeling of accomplishment.
Matt Davich Quartet
Nashville is known as Music City to many and this is usually attributed to country music only. It's a shame that this is the case because many of us know better. Case in point is the quartet you see below. This saxophone quartet combines the abilities of four very talented players and I was fortunate enough to be called in to update their publicity photo. Musicians rarely like to sit in front of the camera and I have to admit, these guys were no exception. Maybe too many years of dressing in black and playing in sunken orchestra pits have made them afraid to be seen in bright light. Kind of like vampires if you really think about it. Anyway, they were all good sports and laughed in all the right places as we worked together. Thanks again Matt for bringing me out to work with you again.
Franklin School of Performing Arts 2009
Well, it's one of my favorite times of the photo season
and an ongoing event for more years than I care to admit to anyone. Of
course I'm talking about the Advanced Dancer's Photo session held each year at
the FSPA. Normally this shoot takes place in February of the new year but
concert performance schedules had to be done differently this time. With
that in mind, we worked this past week before the new year arrived. No
problem of course and as always, ethe roster of dancers who participated did an
incredible job of executing moves that far exceed the norm. In some ways
I've become very spoiled and if that's the worst thing I have to worry about,
then I'm in great shape. My continued thanks to all the dancers and their
families. Over the years their time, talent, and energy have allowed me to
grow as a photographer and most importantly, an artist. Kaylee, I
will never be able to thank you enough for continuing to let me be a part of
your studio and the students who pass through it. A brief set of examples
can be seen by going to the Dance Session Link
of this site or my blog page at
or
Hunt Brothers Pizza
For the past few years I've had the opportunity to work with a great group known simply as Hunt Brothers Pizza. Yes, I know if sounds very simple and straight forward, and in fact, they are just that, a group of 4 brothers who started with nothing but a dream and a lot of energy and drive. I cover their Nashville Christmas event and have a great time working and being a small part of a big weekend. I couldn't ask for a nicer group and look forward to hearing from them each December. They have also become heavily involved with NASCAR and in particular, The Petty Foundation. The picture shown here is self-explanatory and also shows a small sample of their generosity. Thanks again to Julie for bringing me in, and most importantly, keeping me from year to year. Oh by the way, they make GREAT pizza at an affordable price. I know from previous experience, trust me!
Centennial Youth Ballet
This year has marked a number of new experiences for me and one in particular is working for the Centennial Youth Ballet. I was asked to photograph their 2009 performance of The Mini Nutcracker. I've photographed the conventional production before so my curiosity was peaked to say the least. Once I arrived and saw just how wonderful this show was, I knew I was in for a uplifting experience again in the world of dance. In addition to the dancers themselves was a wonderful group of parents who welcomed me in so many ways I will never forget. The simple things that are so often overlooked such as helping me unload and move cumbersome equipment, introducing me to other parents and technical support, introducing me to company members when time allowed, well... the list goes on and on. It was a incredible experience and I hope to work with them again in the not too distant future. If you've never worked with dancers before, they often keep to themselves, mainly because they have so much on their minds the day of performance. This group however on several occasions, made it a point to come up, introduce themselves, and thank me for coming out to photograph their performance. This in itself made my day. One dancer named Sarah Heuerman (playing a dancing doll in the party scene), specifically came up to me, introduced herself, explained who she was in the production, and then proceeded to tell me how much she liked my work. This was not a casual courtesy on her part. It turns out she has followed my dance work for some time and knows several of the artists I've worked with. We had a great conversation and I can tell you with her level of professionalism at such a young age, we'll be seeing more of her onstage and I hope I'm the one who gets to photograph her. It was a moment I will not forget and I'm truly flattered beyond words. I will soon be posting the 2009 show online so if you happen to read this blog, go to the Online Preview link of this site and check it out. By the way, there are most likely over 1000 images to choose from so give yourself a little time. In fact, there are so many, I had to split it up into two parts. Enjoy and thanks again to all who made me feel at home so quickly.
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A Journey back to the 1930's and 40's.
A recent shoot with Nashville based recording artist Shelean Newman gave me a
chance to go back in time when photography created major icons in the Hollywood
movie system. I was fortunate enough to be consulted and then hired to
make this journey happen. It was a wonderful trip and the entire team
working with Shelean did an incredible job of making all of the elements look
and speak with the proper authenticity. There are way to many images to be
featured here but more can be seen by going to my blog at the following link.
If you would like more information regarding Shelean and her work, please check
out her website at
www.sheleannewman.com, you
won't be disappointed.
Katie Card Photo Shoot
Katie is a student at MTSU and one of my former artists from the Franklin
School of the Performing Arts. We've remained in contact thanks to my
ongoing work with MTSU's dance and theatre department. As a result, we
recently worked together on a portfolio shoot. If you would like to see a
few more of my favorite picks, please go to my blog by clicking on the following
link.
Thanks again Katie for a great shoot!
This last week has been an amazing one to say the least. In a time when
there has been waaaay too much quiet, some very interesting work has come my
way. I'm still editing a lot of it but I'm going to feature one artist and
add more later. Amanda Roche contacted me recently and wondered if I would
be interested in photographing her. Well, if you know anything about her
and her work, you can guess it was a no brainer, and I said a very enthusiastic
YES. Anyway, there are too many images to feature here so I going to put
just a few samples on my photo arts blog. If you have a moment, please
check it out by going to the following link.
Thank you again Amanda for a wonderful session and opportunity to learn from you.
I've had the unique privilege of working with Nashville's diverse arts community over the years, especially in the area of dance. Not long ago I received the most wonderful thank you note from Sharon Perry, artistic director of StillPoint Dance Theatre. The following is a thank you note from her.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Dear Martin,
Thank you for all that you did for our last concert at Ingram. You are such a great help - so encouraging and always with a witty sense of humor!
It has been such a joy to have the chance to work with you and get to know you a bit. You are truly a gifted artist with a beautiful spirit and generous heart. You are such an amazing photographer with such a keen eye for beauty and intrigue. You have that unique ability to create mystery in your work that can inspire the imagination and provoke the senses. Thank you for first being yourself - a brilliant artist and a wonderful man!
Sincerely,
Sharon Perry.
Well, there it is, an incredible note from a director and group I feel very close to and I only hope that I can live up to such praise! In all honesty, this company is comprised of incredibly beautiful and talented dancers and the artistic director is a complete dream to work with. I'll stop gushing for now and save some for the next time I write about this group. If you would like more information regarding the company and it's schedule, please go to the following link. http://www.stillpointdt.com/
A Chorus Line!
I just received a message from the Franklin School of Performing Arts regarding Kirstin Tucker. She recently became a cast member of A Chorus Line in New York. I've had the pleasure of photographing her in Nashville and so excited for her and her new career. Congratulations and best wishes all around!
This past Wednesday evening, StillPoint Dance Theatre performed at Ingram Hall on the Vanderbilt University campus. I can't begin to describe the beauty of the dancers and the music itself. There are just too many images to list on this page so please go to the Online Preview link of this site and then look for the Dance link Trust me, it's worth the time to take a look. A special note to Amber Beckham regarding the use of her beautiful photography in one of the dance pieces. The water falling over the rocks added a wonderful backdrop to all the live work on the stage. More information on StillPoint Dance Theatre can be found at: www.stillpointdt.com.
Tennessee Association of Dance 2009 - Austin Peay State University
The TAD met this past weekend and I had a great time seeing old friends and making new ones. Because I had prior commitments in Nashville, I wasn't able to get around to all the classes as usual, but I did have the pleasure of shooting the evening concert and catch this year's award winners. My special thanks to Karen Wilson for allowing me to conduct a seminar on photographing dances this year. Carrie and Monica were so generous with their time and talent and really made the morning come together in ways I couldn't have imagined. To see all the photos, go to the Online Preview link of this site. Click on the Dance link and follow the trail. Enjoy!
PS Check out the latest Photo of the Week Link!
Light the Night in Nashville was extra special in
2009! Hailey White, a student from the Franklin School of Performing
Arts invited me to join this year's walk and as a fellow survivor, I wouldn't
have missed it for anything. Hailey, along with friends and family, joined
hundreds and possibly thousands walk downtown Nashville in a show of support.
It was a great evening and all of us had a chance to see and talk with others
who have been touched by cancer and the related challenges that go with it.
For more images please go to my Facebook
and Blogger links
The Contrapasso Dance Company is came to town this weekend to work with me and we really had a great time again working in a purely creative athmosphere. I'm adding a few photos from the first and second shoot just for fun. More can be seen by going to my arts blog at www.martinoconnorphotoarts.blogspot.com
Two Nashville based artists got in touch with me recently and asked me about working with them as they put together some new ideas. Knowing a bit about their backgrounds and wanting to see how they create the beautiful images up close, I jumped in with both feet. To try and showcase all the incredible moments they gave me is far beyond this blog page. If you would like to see more, please go to my other blog page at www.martinoconnorphotoarts.blogspot.com. It still can't give you everything, but I think it's worth the double click involved.
I received a call a few weeks ago regarding shooting a small wedding event at Union Station. Having been a great location to work in the past, I immediately said yes and how could I help. The bride just needed a short period of time and then informed me that there were actually 3 brides involved! Long story short, it was my first triple wedding and we had a great time working with the mom, daughter, and best friend. We photographed the ceremony, formal and informal shots, and the carriage exit. All in all, a great way to spend an evening with some very nice people. Congratulations to all!
Martin O'Connor received the TAD's Dance Advocate Award during the annual conference. Martin has been a fervent advocate of the art of dance for many years. His stunning dance photography illustrates both his passion for the art form and the beauty of the art. His work is seen throughout Nashville and across the state including the University School of Nashville, Nashville Ballet, Chinese Arts Alliance and Franklin School of Performing Arts. Many of his photos grace the pages of state dance organizations brochures and publicity materials. His eye to detail and his compassionate caring spirit make him a popular photographer for dancers to work with. Martin is the first to tell you that his dance photography is food for the soul. His work has honored many Tennessee dancers and we are honored to recognize him as an outstanding advocate for dance. Congratulations and "thank you" Martin!
I have to tell everyone involved in making me a part of the TAD award that I'm humbled beyond words. To everyone who has been generous enough to grant me their time and talent, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart and thank you for your support in good and bad times.
With all sincerity,
Martin www.martinoconnorphoto.com
Carolyn and James at West End United Methodist Church 2009 - Reception at High Note Farm 2009.
On a personal note, the Tye Finch and his family has been one of the most generous in time and spirit to me and my wedding work. I had the pleasure of meeting Tye several years ago and photographed his first daughter's wedding. I soon found out he had two more to go. Well, what more could a photographer want in life but 3 daughters and three weddings? Life is GOOOD! Enjoy.
PS How many times do you think about having a reception at a Llama farm?
Talk about a week of unusual happenings, I just had the distinct pleasure of working with StillPoint Dance Theatre this week. Sharon Perry, the founder and artistic director asked me if I would be interested in photographing some of their current company members. It took less than a split second to make that decision! I saw this group's performance of Voices from the Ground last year and they were absolutely wonderful. It's an honor to even be considered to work with them. I'll be posting some of the images soon but in the meantime, several of the dancers were kind enough to indulge me with the picture you see below. It was a tough assignment, but someone had to do it! If you would like to know more about the company, information can be found at the following link: www.stillpointdt.com.
By the way, we couldn't feature all the company members due to schedule conflicts, but I can't help smiling anyway. Let's face it,
I LOVE my job and yes, this is a real picture of them doing what they do best.
Not long ago, I shot a portrait session that will probably be one of the most memorable in my career to date. Carrie Gerrow and her husband Scott are Nashville based artists. Scott is a musician and great writer, his wife, a beautiful dancer. Carrie was kind enough, (and possibly brave enough), to bring her dress to the studio and let my imagination take off. I can't really begin to tell you what a thrill it was to watch her amazing talent unfold so I'll just let the images speak for themselves. Thank you again Carrie for your beauty and willingness to make this happen.
One of the many great things about being behind the camera is watching more than just beautiful images, sometimes you get to watch the person or persons in front of you grow up. Such is the case of Daniel. Just recently we were able to get our schedules to work out and the following is a small sample of what came of that time. I've had the privilege of watching Daniel grow not just a person but also as a artist, athlete, human being, and at this point, who knows what other wonderful things are to emerge. His mother is a well know Nashville artist and we've worked together in countless entertainment related venues. Daniel is now a senior, will soon be graduating, and moving on. We know it's part of life, but knowing his mom the way I do, it's easier to say than experience. More of his photos can be seen by going to the seniors link on this website. You won't necessarily be able to tell, but this shoot took place at a warehouse that's in the process of being converted to a multipurpose event space. There was NO air conditioning, and workmen were just out of range of the camera. Needless to say, July in Nashville can be a challenge but Daniel never flinched. I've got to find out his secret for looking great and not breaking a sweat! Some people "have it" and the rest of of us get to photograph it. My thanks to Jeff Thornhill for allowing us to come by and work at this location. More on that as time goes on.
Seniors keep moving on!
This is a recent senior shoot for a student I've watched grow as a person
and an artist. Alyssa has spent a big part of her life studying, dancing,
and refining her dance work at the Franklin School of Performing Arts.
I've had the privilege of documenting her growth for many years. It's been
so much fun watching her and her fellow dancers mature over the years. PS
I must have a talent for working in less than favorable weather sometimes.
The day of this outdoor shoot, we had to often work between the raindrops and
wonder just how close the thunder and lightning was going to get. Either
way, it turned out great.
Over the years we've had the opportunity to work at many wonderful locations, each one having it's own unique qualities. One in particular stands out among many because of its location and beauty. The place is better known as Cedarwood Mansion. The owners and staff do a great job of taking care of bride and grooms' needs and make for a worry free day for everyone involved. The following images will give you a brief idea of the site. For more information please go to the following link: Cedarwood Mansion.
A few weeks ago I said I had the opportunity to shoot StillPoint Dance Theatre and had an incredible time working with all the dancers. I've been dying to post some of the images once the artistic director Sharon Perry had a chance to look everything over. Well, we finally had the opportunity to meet and I've posted some of my initial favorites in the Dance Fine Art Gallery link but I just had to put a few things on the blog page so you could get a quick preview. Hope you enjoy them and be sure to find out more about the group by going to www.stillpointdt.com.
Loosing track of time so easily and once again, another one of my seniors is moving on. Luckily she had time to work with me before heading to college. I've had the unique opportunity of working with Erin as a dancer for some time. In this case however, we went out of the studio and into the elements. July weather is a challenge for people indoors so imagine how uncomfortable it was outdoors. Regardless, she was up for the challenge. Erin also knows how much I enjoy playing with different lighting, so when you check out the following images, it will become self-explanatory. More of Erin's talent can be seen by going to the Franklin School of Performing Arts link located on the home page. You can also see the entire shoot by going to the Seniors Page link once you've checked out the blog.
Erin, it's been a complete privilege watching you grow as a person and an artist. I look forward to tracking, and hopefully photographing, your career as it develops. My sincere best wishes go with you. Martin
PS Thanks for bring Nick along, he was a great sport to put up with me.
Destination weddings have become a buzz word in the wedding industry but to tell you the truth, there's no better destination that our own state of Tennessee. With that in mind, I wanted to feature a few images from Evans Mill, right here in our own back yard!
Bridal portraits have been have been keeping me on my toes for a long time and this particular one is no exception. Please note, this was NOT done on the wedding day. Brides attention spans and pets are two VERY different.
Sometimes the best images are just around the corner. This mother and daughter duo are new neighbors in our area and what better way to get to know someone than photograph them? You be the judge.
Well everyone, once again I'm faced with the fact that students move on. Allison and I have been working together at the FSPA for more years than I care to admit. During the course of this shoot we did remember working with FILM! Remember that stuff? I still miss it but it was so funny to talk about how many times she has been in front of my camera. In addition to just a few of her Senior portraits, I had to include a favorite hip hop look she sent my way not long ago. By the way, the entire Senior shoot can be seen by going to the Seniors link of the website. Enjoy!
Hi again everyone and thanks so much for the great feedback on the new Martin O'Connor Photography wedding, portrait, dance, fine art, and corporate website. All the comments are helping me put important changes in. Just to update you, I recently reconnected with Nashville artist Lori Stegner. I've known her as a singer and dancer and on occasion, worked together on commercial and industrial events. Well, you just never know what your friends are up to and I recently found out she works as celebrity impersonators as well. She asked me if we could work together to update a few of her characters and of course, I said YES! Anyway, I thought you'd like to see a few examples of Patsy Cline, Shania Twain, and the iconic Marilyn Monroe. Thanks again for all your hard work and over the top dedication in putting this shoot together. If you would like more information on Lori, please go to www.loristegner.com
Parting Shots
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