Documenting a day in the life of an artist is one of my very favorite things to do. Getting behind the scenes and having exclusive access to document them in real-life situations is an amazing way to share my spirit as an artist as well. Three of the most memorable artists I have shot are Mos Def, Jarvis Cocker, and P. Diddy. Q: So you also have years of experience working in front of the camera as a fashion model. Does your work as a model give you a better sense of your subjects when you're behind the camera too? A: Having the experience I have had as a model has given me a 360-degree view of the art of photography. Although I was the center of attention as a model, I was a fly on the wall as a photographer. Through modeling I have learned how to be a better photographer, learning the skills of styling, art directing, and, most importantly, how to be a calm, cool, and collected communicator. By being in front of the lens, I have gained a new perspective and newfound understanding of the models' frame of mind. Having a good vibe and making people feel comfortable is the recipe for creating great portraits.

Q: You've done some really interesting travel photography. Can you tell us a little more about some of these projects? Where did you go, what did you see, what were you trying to show? A: I have traveled all over the world to capture the beauty and diversity of myriad cultures. Expressing my passion for equality through photography has led me to act as a messenger to many communities and societies that have been forgotten in the mainstream media. Most recently, I traveled to South Africa to document the World Cup's effect on the country's economic development. Photographing the people and places society has forgotten has always inspired me, and I hope my images create a sense of equality and justice. Using my creative artistic passion to build awareness of human rights has been a huge influence in my life as a photographer. Q: You're currently based in Atlanta. What do you like about living and making art there?

A: Atlanta is the true definition of a renaissance city. The music community is overflowing with talent, and logistically, with the busiest airport in the world, I have the ability to fly almost anywhere direct. My photographs have been placed permanently throughout the airport shuttle tunnels at Hartsfield Jackson and throughout Atlanta's art galleries and the Castleberry Hill Loft District, where I live. Q: Is there one special person, place or thing that you've always wanted to photograph? Why? A: I have always wanted to photograph Nelson Mandela, Oprah Winfrey, and Bono. They are all amazing humanitarians and have used their lives to help others. As for destinations, l still want to photograph my family's roots in Sweden and Italy.

Q: Imagine you could never take another picture. What do you think you would most like to do instead? A: Directing is my next endeavor. Evoking emotion and expressing ideas by bringing many creative people together is an eventual dream of mine. If I wasn't able to take another photo, it would be hard, but I think, first and foremost, I'm an artist over being a photographer. Learning new art forms is always a great chance to evolve as an artist. Q: What are the top three things you want to accomplish by the end of 2010? A: By the end of 2010, I would love to have finished shooting the stills for a music documentary I am working on, completed my coffee table book, and found the location for the Ewok Village/Swiss Family Robinson compound I am looking to build.

                   

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