Images By Van Dam

I usually begin with getting me to tell me about their project and what their photographic goals and expectations are. From there, we might talk about the particular style and content they want or need. A lot of logistical planning goes into photographing certain events while, at other times, clients give me complete artistic freedom for the project. I love working both ways.

I love working with people. Whether it be at a wedding, family portrait session, or with an art director for a commercial or editorial project, I love the interactions I have with clients as well as photographing the real and beautiful moments that are happening. And of course, I love the act of creating photographs. My whole life, I have loved making and creating things, and finding beauty in the world around me. Photography is an art form that lends itself particularly well to this mindset.

I had always loved taking photographs in high school and when I went to university I displayed some of my work in my room. Other students remarked that I should start selling them. That summer, I set up a booth at a local farmer's market and had soon sold a bunch of prints. From there, customers approached me to do portrait work, which I refused at first, as I was doing landscapes only at that time. One particular family was very persistent, so I finally agreed. Turns out, I loved it and they loved the images. I haven't looked back since.

I feel like every client needs to find a photographer that fits well with them. I am a very down-to-earth person that works tirelessly to create the images my clients are after. I am not afraid of doing what it takes to achieve that. Whether it's knocking on the door of a stranger's property to seek permission to use their land for a shoot, or to go up in an airplane to take aerial photos of a wedding, or to hike a mile into a beautiful location. People also tell me that I am very friendly and extremely easy to get along with.

For commercial clients who are looking for top notch product photography, I can work remotely with them, as long as they ship their product to me. From there, we can correspond by phone, virtual meeting, or email to produce the shots they need.

I have received all vaccines and booster shots and also follow all mandated guidelines for distancing, etc. I also have clauses in my wedding contracts that allow cancellations, postponements, or refunds, if an event needs to be cancelled/postponed for any covid related reason. I also have a good supply of rapid tests to make sure I am healthy.