Grace and Beauty

At a time when divas are a dime a dozen, it was soooo refreshing to work with such a gracious and beautiful bride!
I am not available for hire as a wedding photographer. For weddings, I work only with my dear friend Sarah at Eyeris Photography.

Go Erin!

Her 21 year old cousin Tanya lost her life to Burkitt’s Lymphoma in December (2008) and now Erin Sparks is honoring Tanya by raising funds to battle the disease. Erin and her husband Zak are the founding members of Cloudchase. As much as possible, I try to fit their performances into my schedule. They recently organized a Benefit for Leukemia/Lymphoma at The Good Cup in Franklin Tennessee. So far, Erin has raised over $1,800 in her effort. Way to go Erin!

Erin Sparks of Cloudchase

Zak Sparks of Cloudchase

Hall of Fame Wedding

I always love a new venue! My first assignment at the Country Music Hall of Fame was to photograph some food for SoBro Grill’s web site, back in 2006. And I’ve covered a few events there since then, but this was the first time I’ve covered a wedding there. Sarah and I had a blast and the couple was so refreshingly genuine.

Twelve Against Nature

Twelve Against Nature keyboardist Boh Cooper
Another day, another lineup

If you think it’s challenging to photograph children, try shooting full grown musicians!

I had the pleasure of working with a very talented group of musicians named Twelve Against Nature. They are a Steely Dan tribute band, considerate enough to let me line them up and shoot them like they do at the police department!

From left to right…

• Roy Agee, trombone
• Steve Arnold, bass
• Steve Ebe, drums
• Randy Leago, sax
• Marcia Ramirez, vocals
• Tom Hemby, guitar
• Scott Kinney, trumpet
• Boh Cooper, keys & vocals
• Kim Parent, vocals
• Chris Cottros, guitar
• Jim Hoke, sax
• Scott Sheriff, keys & vocals

Video from Ginger’s Photo Shoot

Just a few favorites from my December photo shoot with Ginger. I’m still seeking models who are interested in doing a shoot between now and Spring. Please email me if you’re interested.

Ginger

I met Ginger back in March of 2004 at a makeover party. I was there to make the before & after shots of each girl. At the risk of sounding like a cheesy pickup line, I encouraged Ginger to consider modeling. It’s hard to believe that was almost five years ago!

Since it was over 60 degrees and sunny today (not our typical December weather), I called to see if she might want to get out for a spontaneous shoot. I’m glad it worked out for both of us.

We started in an old downtown area, where a building once stood. This particular spot was about 12 feet below street level, with open sky above. I used high speed flash techniques for more dramatic lighting.

When I first met Ginger, she seemed so shy. Over the past few years, I see a big difference in her confidence level though she’s still quite humble.
 

Where Did Everything Go?

You would be correct to wonder “Is this the same Danny?”  The answer is “Yes and No.”

The curtains have closed on phase one of my professional photography career and the stage crew is rushing to move in some new and exciting things for 2009!

As much as I enjoyed working with so many wonderful children and families over the past six years, I am turning a corner in pursuit of a less predictable, more creative style of photography. I am still available for commercial work, events, headshots and senior photos.

Where is your gallery?

While I have dozens of favorites from hundreds of past sessions, it doesn’t make sense to continue promoting a style I no longer offer. Yes, I may occasionally weave in a classical style portrait but that is no longer available as my standard. So my gallery was filled with a style I’ve discontinued and it’s time for a fresh new gallery.

And don’t worry. There will definitely be a gallery soon.

What else is changing?

Basically, I’m no longer available for “paint-by-numbers” portraiture. In other words, I would not be the best choice for someone that has a specific vision and just needs a photographer to do the technical part. There are plenty of photographers available for that type of work. I need more creative freedom and less predictability but I remain committed to quality with no exceptions.

You may also see more concert and event photography from me. I’ve been doing those things all along. Just haven’t shared any on my site until now.

Where are your prices?

Since my services are changing so much, my previous rates no longer apply. I expect to have the new rates online very soon. Until then, you can email me for more information.

When will we see more of your work?

Hopefully by January 1, 2009. I will be doing a few shoots between now and then, specifically for sharing online. Best of all, I will update the site more frequently to share what’s going on.

I’m looking forward to an exciting 2009!

Model Search

How crazy must I be, conducting a model search during this busy Christmas season? My web site is being totally rebuilt for 2009 and I need some new faces and a good variety of models.

I’m currently accepting requests for a free photo shoot for a limited time only. Qualified candidates must be 18 or older, able to portray a variety of expressions without direction and available for a 20-30 minute shoot on one or more of the following dates in Nashville Tennessee:

• Friday December 12, 2008
• Saturday December 13, 2008
• Friday December 19, 2008
• Saturday December 20, 2008
• Saturday December 27, 2008
• Saturday January 2, 2009
• Saturday January 3, 2009
• and possibly more dates in January

Each shoot (one per winner) will be approximately 20-30 minutes, scheduled during the middle of the day, between 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. Expect to be outside for a portion, if not all of the shoot.

How to Enter

Simply email your name, phone number and a photo or two. Only a limited number of entries will be chosen.

If chosen, you will be contacted so we can schedule your shoot.

After your shoot, one or more of your photos may be used as a sample on my web site (which is being totally redesigned for 2009). The nature of the shoot will be experimental and somewhat unpredictable. In exchange for your participation, I will provide you with a few files from your shoot.

This is not for anyone who is looking for a very specific type of photo. Again, this will be an opportunity to experiment in exchange for some exciting new photos. I trust you will like the results.

Best wishes!

db

Small porch, big sky

Such a beautiful day! A lot is changing for 2009 at dannybates.com. More on that soon!

One Afternoon in California

Just wanted to share a few of the photos that I made during a recent trip to California. Enjoy!