WHY DIDN’T I THINK OF THAT?

Have you ever come across something while surfing the net and instantly asking yourself, “why didn’t I think of that”? Well, you’re not alone. I think the problem with being a creative is the fact that we’re constantly looking at life in antidotal metrics trying to discover new ways to improve or enhance already existing products and problems that sometimes we miss what’s right in front of us. Very seldom is the answer to re-invent the wheel but more so to find contemporary ways to pour new life into an already existing foundation. For instance, a 35mm film canister. A bland, lifeless plastic cylinder that serves to protect the format in which we create some of our most cherished moments. If you’re working with 120mm, forget about it. All you get is a mundane wrapper that is about as exciting as an old condom wrapper that one might find tucked between couch cushions or in a drawer somewhere. Again, bland and unexciting but then a mind noticed this void and did something about it. Rama Works® x The Mighty Killers introduced a brilliantly designed film canister for us 35mm and 120mm shooters. This is a prime example of seeing an opportunity for improvement and executing it in a manner that brings it into the now. How many of us have just thrown those little plastic cylinders away? I know I have. Bravo to everyone involved in this project.


Is this product overpriced and unnecessary? Perhaps, but that isn’t my point. My point is that there’s millions of things surrounding us just begging to be noticed, respectfully re-designed and brought to the market in a refreshing way.


-Danny


WILL THIS BE THE NEW NORM?

Face masks have always been a popular thing in Eastern countries due to the smog and air quality in those regions but due to the current Covid-19 climate and vast numbers of those being infected skyrocketing daily, we’re now starting to see masks being worn on our home turf. Westerners are embracing the new accessory and big box luxury brands are implementing their own take on the apparatus as a way of showing good faith in these trying times. Or so I would like to believe that’s their motive. Though I do appreciate their ingenuity and resourcefulness when it comes to using current technologies, it would be hard to dismiss the fact that majority of the brands that are now transitioning their product developments into a singular objective are doing so without applying the proper filtration system (N95) that will block out (or keep in) the virus. So, are they supplying the masses with PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) or is this just simply strategic branding? I would love to sit here and say that we are all sticking through this together without any ulterior motives but that would be naive, especially from a marketing standpoint.


-Danny


HELLO, GOOSE

I’ve wanted one of these cameras for ages but could never find a mint condition (with original box) offering. last week I was randomly watching an old short film of skateboarder, Alex Olson, on YouTube and there was a clip of him shooting with the Polaroid [Mamiya] 600se which reminded me about my hunt. To my surprise I stumbled upon a brand new unused GOOSE (600se) but the price was way too rich for my blood. Fear not, I am not one to be defeated before throwing down a good old fashioned haggle. After messaging the seller back and forth and working my magic, I locked in the sale at a ridiculous price. It arrived today and honestly the camera is nothing short of beautiful. As much as I wish Fuji continued to produce their pack film (FP100C) I’ve decided to order a motorized 3D printed back so I can shoot current Polaroid film rather than paying $70 for 10 shots of expired Fuji. I’ll update you when it comes in but until then you can read a superb review on this particular camera here.


-Danny



SOCIAL DISTANCING AKA GET CREATIVE

I’m sure most of you are stuck inside just like we are. In fact, it’s currently just a couple of us that are physically handling all of the orders which is a really good thing because my OCD and our sanitization game has been next level lately. I mean, I don’t drink anymore but I could swear I caught a little buzz from all of the hand-sanitizer and cleaning spray we’ve been using. Rest assured your packages are heading to you with a lot love and even more attention to detail (as if that was possible). 


It dawned on me today while answering questions in my DM’s about photography advice that I don’t exactly know when us photo makers will be able to pick up our camera and go shoot again, outside – with other humans. Then I was instantly struck with something someone said to me years ago when I first started making photos, “a good photographer can find at least ten photographs to capture in any situation”.  I remember always saying that to myself but somewhere in the transition from hobby to career I lost it. I think it’s beneficial for all creatives to think outside the box or go back to our roots in times like these. Just because we can’t go out doesn’t mean we can’t dive deep into our imagination and creativity while exploring our craft. In trying times like these it’s prudent to escape the uncertainty for a bit and have fun. Put your eye to the viewfinder and take photos of everything that is near you. You might end up pleasantly surprised and even if nothing you capture is ‘post worthy’ you’re still sharpening your perspective and skills during this unpredictable time. And, there’s always FaceTime photoshoots which I’ve been seeing a lot of but that’s a whole other blog entry.


-Danny



HELLO, BEAUTIFUL

Since we’re all on “lock down” I decided to take this time to rebuild by studio and order a lot of equipment that I’ve been meaning to get. It’s actually kind of crazy how much I’ve done over the past week or so. I completely cleaned and rearranged and even started repainting some of the walls to prep for new build outs that will house products and equipment. I have a mountain of packages and boxes piling up but this is one I had to open today. My lovely RZ67 Pro II medium format came and I was like a kid on Christmas. I’ve had this camera before but sold it because it didn’t suit my style of shooting at the time, but now, we’re in this together for the long haul. I honestly can’t believe the condition it’s in. It’s better than last one, but isn’t that always the case when it comes to new love. 


Stay safe out there and surround yourself with kindness and positivity. Take this time to really focus on learning, creating and finally exploring those ideas that you couldn’t get too because life was overwhelmingly busy. Use this as an opportunity to grow and expand and always remember, there’s never a shortage of books to read or photographs to make.


-Danny 


TRIED AND TESTED

I’m like a hat nazi when it comes to trucker hats, especially when you’re going for a vintage look but don’t want the vintage fit because we all know how poorly that foam beer koozie material snuggles our noggin. And where does one find a really good quality mesh trucker without having to pay James Perse or Chrome Hearts prices? I suppose this is why it took me forever to finally release one because I knew the standard that it would have to have in order for it to be something that I truly appreciate and wear all of the time. Let’s face it, you want to get your moneys worth which means it needs to last. I had to personally test it, so I’ve been wearing the same sample since I received it in the beginning of January and let me tell you my honest opinion, I’m sold. I’ve worn it running, I’ve worn it playing tennis, I’ve worn it at shoots, I’ve worn it at meetings, I’ve even worn it to church. The only places I haven’t worn it is in the shower or bed, well, there was that one time but… never mind. My point is, If I had to pick a hat that doesn’t get beat up by the elements easily and doesn’t lose it’s shape after non-stop wear, this would be it. Now I want to know your thoughts on it. A lot of you have ordered them and I really want your honest feedback. Do you love it as much as I do? Let me know either by email or IG.


Available here


-Danny