Observational Archivist

A short explanation of the moniker, and what it says about the work I want to make.

I call myself a photographer because that’s what I am. But I’ve never felt like any of the usual titles really fit. I’m not a wedding photographer. I’m not a lifestyle photographer. I take pictures because I like visually interesting things. I like art. I like fashion. I like color and composition. I like when something looks cool and I get to figure out why.

I also like to organize things. I've always been a sucker for a good trip to The Container Store. That part of me lines up naturally with photography. I’m constantly documenting the people, places, and objects I want to remember, styled in a way that feels beautiful to me. When the phrase Observational Archivist came to mind, it felt like the right fit.

I use that title because it gives me a way to describe what I do without falling into a category that doesn’t apply. Now that I am using it, it gives me something to grow into. It’s helping shape how I approach my work and what kinds of projects I choose to take on.

My photos lean more observational than posed. I don’t have anything against staging. Some of the fashion photographers I admire create highly structured work, and they do it well. But I’m most drawn to the moments when people stop thinking about the camera. That’s usually where the images I like most come from.

That doesn’t mean I never give direction. Sometimes it helps people feel more at ease or gives them something to do while they settle in. But I try to stay open enough that something authentic can come through in the space.

I’m also selective about what I take on. If I don’t feel moved to photograph your wedding, your product, or your brand, I’m not the right person for it. I’ll be honest about that and try to help you find someone who’s a better fit. But if we do work together, and you trust me to approach it in the way I know how, I’ll do everything I can to make something we’re both proud of.

I don’t expect everyone to understand what Observational Archivist means at first glance. If someone is curious, they can ask or keep reading here. I just hope the title makes it clear that I care about what I make. That I’m intentional about what I say yes to. That I enjoy this enough to treat it like something worth doing well.