Santa Barbara Rain

I went for a walk on my lunch break, which was a nice way to break up the day. Wandering around and taking photos always relaxes me. The curious stares are almost funny, and every now and then someone asks not to be photographed or wants to know what I’m doing. Really, I’m just out trying to unwind and capture whatever resonates with me or catches my eye. Alexa and I ended the evening with ramen, which was the perfect finish to the day.

The video explores the life and career of war photographer Chas Gerretsen, highlighting his work covering conflicts in Southeast Asia and South America. It also follows his transition from frontline photojournalism to becoming a Hollywood photographer on Apocalypse Now, showing how his real-world experience in war influenced the film’s visual storytelling and authenticity.

This Week and Sluttony at Soho

I can’t take credit for sharing this one — my friend and fellow photographer David Kafer Photography texted it to me the other week.

This online panel brings together top photo and creative directors, agency leaders, and hiring decision-makers to discuss how photographers can stand out, get hired, and build lasting client relationships. Moderated by Karen Williams, author of The Photo Hustle, the conversation offers candid, practical advice for photographers at all levels on what matters most in portfolios, pitches, and professional relationships in 2025.

Took the camera out for a show at Soho, a great little venue in Santa Barbara. Snapped a few shots of Sluttony — killer energy and an awesome crowd. A few favorites below 👇

Your Favorite Skater’s Favorite Photographer
Atiba Jefferson

Stories That Stuck With Me

A few times a week, I like to browse and lose myself in photography videos—these are a few that really caught my attention. I also listened to a couple of photo podcasts while doing some mindless editing, and together they reminded me why I love capturing everyday life.

One of my favorites this month is Alessio Romenzi’s work. It takes me back to my time in the Middle East, and I’m planning to create an album here to finally share those images. I can almost hear my old friend Dan Quinones yelling at me about finally getting that photo book created. It’s been years since I took them, and I realize I never gave them the attention they deserve. You know that feeling when you have so many photos you love but don’t know where to start showing them? That’s what’s held me back. But I’m learning to be more intentional—to share the images that truly mean something to me, rather than just adding to the endless scroll.

Enjoy!

In this episode, Michael chats with Bill Shapiro—former LIFE editor—about running the iconic magazine, creating LIFE.com, and how the internet has reshaped how we see and trust images.

Alessio Romenzi has spent decades photographing wars across the world—from Libya to Iraq and Syria—capturing powerful images that show just how surreal life in conflict can be.

Artist Stephen Shore often finds himself inspired by ordinary subjects, such as a grilled cheese sandwich. He discusses how his photographic practice makes him observe the world with heightened attention. Reflecting on his series American Surfaces (1972-2005) and Uncommon Places (1987-2003), he describes his goal of composing photographs in a way that “feels like seeing.”

Light, Texture, and a Bit of Stillness

I didn’t go out looking for anything in particular — just light, texture, and a bit of stillness. I took these photos on a quiet morning walk — just small moments that caught my eye. A bakery sign that says “We loaf you,” an old basketball hoop, a worn door with patterned tiles. Nothing special, but each felt like a piece of everyday life worth noticing. In black and white, everything feels simpler and more honest. Just light, texture, and the calm that comes from slowing down long enough to really see things.

 Sometimes the quietest moments say the most. — Aaron Bratkovics