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![A wooden sign on a beach with the wors lost soles and single flip flops hanging on a post.]()
5 Polite Alternatives to Ghosting Your Photographer: How to Say “No” Professionally
In the business world, communication is key, but there’s one word that many of us still find difficult to say: “no.” Despite being adults, many people struggle with rejecting offers, especially when they think it might hurt someone’s feelings. As a professional photographer with 25 years of experience, I can confidently say, “No,” won’t make…
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![Studio headshot of a white female on a gray background using professional lighting.]()
Book Your Professional Headshot Sessions Online in Fayetteville, Arkansas
I’m thrilled to announce that starting next week, I’ll be offering online booking for professional headshots at my Fayetteville, Arkansas, studio. Whether you’re updating your LinkedIn profile or need new images for your website, I’ve made the booking process easy and accessible. I’ll be starting with a few Wednesdays available through the end of the…
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![Four section tall dagwood sandwich on a white table with a green background.]()
Behind the Lens with Food Photography: Capturing Delicious Moments for Tyson Foods’ Fortune 100 Brands
Working with Fortune 100 companies like Tyson Foods is both a creative challenge and a rewarding experience. This year, I had the opportunity to photograph nine products from seven of their renowned brands for media handouts that showcased both products in packaging and staged food photography. From Jimmy Dean’s rustic breakfast vibe to Ball Park’s…
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![Photo of side items available at Wrights BBQ in Bentonville.]()
Capturing the Best BBQ in Bentonville: How I Delivered Stunning Food Photography for The Infatuation Despite Challenges with Lighting
Over the summer, I had the incredible opportunity to partner with The Infatuation to photograph food and drinks at 17 of the best restaurants in Bentonville, Arkansas. This project involved working closely with an editor in New York and coordinating with local restaurants to meet a tight two-week deadline. One of the most memorable shoots…
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![Scenic photography of Blessings Golf Club shown with the 1st fairway.]()
The Art of Creating a Photography Book: Documenting the Blessings Collegiate Invitational Golf Tournament
During the fall of 2020, I was asked to photograph teams competing in the Blessings Collegiate Invitational Golf Tournament in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The inaugural year began with SEC teams because they were all within driving distance and faced fewer travel restraints since COVID-19 was in full swing. The tournament is different from others in that…
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![Food photography of a charcuterie board with crackers, honey and cheese taken for a magazine feature.]()
Elevate Your Super Bowl Spread with a Charcuterie Board
The Super Bowl is about more than football. If you’re not a Chiefs or 49ers fan you are probably most looking forward to the halftime show, commercials, and the snacks. Every year you host or attend a Super Bowl party the unspoken expectation is to bring a little something along. You cannot show up empty-handed,…
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Choosing the Right Clothing for Your Professional Headshot
A professional headshot is more important than one may think, but you may only realize it once your boss asks for one or it’s time for a big interview. The old one of you might be outdated, or you may not have one at all, which means it’s time to schedule a portrait session. Whatever…
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![Spiked Eggnog with peppermint on the rim of a clear glass. The glass is surrounded by red, gold and silver ornaments in front of a bright red background.]()
Holiday Drinks – The Bourbon Photography Experiment
The holidays call for lots of time with family and friends, joy, cheer, and DRINKS! After a recent trip to the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky, I was inspired to take on a personal project researching, creating and photographing bourbon based drinks. This experiment couldn’t have come at a better time, the holiday season! It was…
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![In a creative portrait, John David Rainey stands near a concrete wall in a Walmart Supercenter and has a blue light on his face.]()
Illuminating Portrait Photography: Photographing Walmart Stores Inc. CFO in a Captivating Blue Light
Photography is a medium that transcends time and space, allowing us to capture the essence of individuals, their stories, and their achievements. In a recent editorial photoshoot for Barron’s magazine, the spotlight was on Walmart’s CFO, John David Rainey, a key player in one of the world’s largest retail giants. I was asked to create…
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![A butler's pantry just off the main kitchen in a residential home.]()
Capturing the elegance of an Interior Designer’s Home with Sarah Smith Designs
Photographing the interior of Sarah Smith Design’s home was a wonderful experience, a journey through carefully curated spaces where every detail was thought through and every item carefully placed. The spacious haven was bathed in natural light, adorned with light wooden floors, and brought to life with tasteful neutral colors and furnishings. The play of…
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![A red combine driving through a field of corn against a blue sky.]()
The landscapes of Agricultural Photography
We are in the middle of the time of year when it’s not entirely too hot, and the landscape still holds onto rich greens. I thought I’d showcase some images of farms photographed for commercial clients in the last few years in Arkansas, Missouri and Iowa. Having spent childhood summers harvesting peaches at my grandparent’s…
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Interior Photography in Fayetteville: Capturing the Dreamy Pink Kitchen
I recently photographed the most dreamy pink kitchen while working with Meet.West Studio. It was our first time working together on an interior photoshoot, and I enjoyed the collaborative effort. I love talking through design elements to make sure I fully showcase the space and give the photographs a bit of “pop” with styling choices.…
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![People sitting in a row working and having coffee at Onxy Coffee House in Rogers, Ark.]()
Exploring Northwest Arkansas for the Wall Street Journal
A couple of months ago, I received an email from the Wall Street Journal about photographing Northwest Arkansas for an upcoming article. They asked me to photograph the interiors of a couple of homes, portraits of the owners, and a few specific areas. They also asked me to photograph anything I thought was interesting about…
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![head shot of a woman taken in a photography studio on a gray background.]()
Professional advice for your business headshot
It’s come to that time in life where you realize you can no longer use the photo from the bar as your professional head shot. You know, the one you cropped your friends out of where you have a mystery hand on your shoulder. Sure it’s a great photo of you, but it probably no…
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![portrait of an executive sitting on a couch against a plain background]()
Executive portraits for a new, consistent look on the website
One of my projects in late summer 2021 was to take updated portraits of the executives at Tyson Foods, Inc., in Springdale, Arkansas. The goal was to give the portraits on the website an updated, consistent look and really put the focus on the people. We took time to discuss the look of the images…
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![Rosanne Cash stands on the front porch of her dad Johnny Cash's boyhood home.]()
From the photography archive… portraits of Rosanne Cash for National Geographic Traveler
I recently put together a portfolio for a new adventure and did a little digging through my archives. It was fun to look through old shoots and pull a few images to re-edit with the goal of putting them on Instagram or my blog. Sometimes I get a little overwhelmed trying to keep things current.…
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![Portrait of a turkey farmer in a barn full of birds]()
Behind the Lens: My First Photoshoot for The New York Times
Recently pulled from the archives of 2011, this is a portrait of a turkey farmer in Scranton, Arkansas, was taken on my first assignment for the New York Times. I remember being so excited to get the call from the editor because it was the NYT, and it reminded me of my grandfather and his…
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Capturing Memories: My Personal Photography Project on Little Rock Crate & Basket Co.
It’s been a pandemic since my last post… seriously, it’s been a minute, and a world of things have happened since then. Of all the “pivot” moments, I think the biggest one was my dad officially shutting down his business, selling the property and retiring. It was the place of my childhood full of familiar…
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Working as a Freelance Photographer through the Uncertainty of a Pandemic.
I’m going to be honest here and say that the last couple of weeks as a freelance photographer have been stressful. I’ve bid on photography jobs and just not heard back from people… at all. Thinking it was awfully strange, I reached out to one of those potential clients to ask if they had any…
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![Arkansas Magazine Photographer]()
Editorial feature of Fayetteville, Arkansas, in Good Grit Magazine
One of my favorite things to photograph is features for magazine articles. I love that it digs into my photojournalism roots, but also allows for a little direction to be able to create images that are a bit more polished. Last summer I was contacted by the creative director at Good Grit Magazine. It’s a…
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Refining My Photography Focus: From Versatility to Mastery
Saturday marks 14 years since I started Beth Hall Photography. I’ll always remember the date because it was the day my son was born. I made a decision to leave the newspaper, raise my son and become a freelance photographer. The first couple of years were interesting because I shot everything that came my way.…
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A Different Type of Studio Portrait for the Dogs of Arkansas Children’s Northwest.
Last year I had the opportunity to take portraits of some of the therapy dogs for Arkansas Children’s Northwest at my photography studio in Fayetteville, Ark. The pup portraits are used on “business cards” that the owners hand out to patients at the hospital. It’s a really cute idea, and we photographed the dogs on…
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![Arkansas Architectural Photographer]()
Duck hunting in style in Arkansas
We are nearing the home stretch of duck season in Arkansas, so I thought it would be appropriate to show this amazing hunting cabin I photographed last fall. I was contacted by the contractor, Cline Construction out of Little Rock, and asked about photographing the project for the owners and also the architect, Platt Architecture…
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10 things you probably didn’t know about this Arkansas photographer.
Even though I grew up in Little Rock, I spent my childhood summers on my grandparent’s peach farm in Greenbrier where we tended to 5,000 trees at a you-pick-em orchard. I sometimes drove my grandpa’s giant diesel to the Farmer’s Market in Little Rock to sell peaches on Saturday mornings. I can play the fiddle.…
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Editorial Photography for At Home in Arkansas
Last summer I shot a few places around Northwest Arkansas for an editorial feature in At Home in Arkansas. I absolutely love shooting editorial content because I feel like I can just have fun and be creative. I visited a couple of boutiques, an ice cream shop, a coffee house and a local brewery. Here…
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Catching up on photoshoots from the first half of 2018
I think I’m just in the phase of life called busy. Sometimes I don’t know how I’m going to fit everything in, but I get to the end of each month and I’m able to meet all my deadlines with clients and still be a mom to a cute 12-year-old boy. The two places I…
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What do Advertising, Sports, Head Shots and Editorial Photoshoots have in common? … Me …
I started off the new year in a poultry house working on an ad campaign with Tyson Foods and their advertising agency. We had three specific shots in mind, and it all sounded simple… while baby chicks are super cute to watch run around and hold, they don’t make for the most cooperative subjects. There…
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Recap of March and April of 2017. Yes, I’m this far behind on talking about my photography…
I took these photographs over a year ago, and I’m just now getting around to posting about them… geeze, I’m a slacker. Not really, I’ve just been busy creating new photos and having fun in life. My blog has definitely become secondary, and I’m working to get it updated so that my posts will all…
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![Arkansas Interior Photographer]()
Photographing Interiors for the Wall Street Journal in Bentonville, Arkansas
I was recently hired by the Wall Street Journal to do the photography to accompany an article about the luxury housing market in Bentonville, Arkansas. I ended up walking away with quite a few images from the shoot, so I’ve decided to make blog posts about each home instead of putting them all into one…
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Portraits, Interiors and a Ride Down the River — Recap of the first couple months of 2017.
It’s been a while since I’ve updated my blog, so here goes for… I’m going to break 2017 into several posts. The year started out a little nerve-racking when my biggest and most steady client decided to shut down the e-commerce part of their business. I know better than to put “all my eggs in…
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Here’s what’s new at Beth Hall Photography
A lot has happened with my photography business in the last year, but it’s too much to try to share in one post. Trust me, this day started out with writing a blog post of the highlights of the year, but only 4 months into the archive, I realized that there were too many photographs…
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Work Never Stops as a Freelance Photographer
It’s been a hard week; I had to put down my dog on Tuesday. She was 2 months shy of her 15th birthday, and 4 months shy of being with me for just as many years. She was the best dog a person could ever ask for, and the last year was really hard to watch her…
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Product Photography Year in Review: Capturing Quality Images
I started photographing products only a few years ago, and it’s becoming something I really enjoy shooting. As a photographer, I have worked to narrow what I shoot and try not to be a generalist who shoots everything. I want the images I give my clients to be quality work, and am always learning new…
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Food Photography: 2016 year in review.
Every year I try to make a blog post that includes my favorite images and projects from the previous year. I would like to keep my blog more up to date, but sometimes I have trouble posting current work because I would like for my clients to use the images before I make a post. I…
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One of the Many Reasons I love Being a Freelance Photographer in Arkansas.
I love my job, every damn day. I feel very fortunate that I am always happy to go to work and that I get paid to do something I love. There are so many reasons that I enjoy being a professional photographer, but one of them is meeting people and hearing their stories. We all have…
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Photographing Businesses and Executives in Northwest Arkansas
Each year Arkansas Business honors the state’s top executives, small businesses and nonprofits with the annual Arkansas Business of the Year Awards. It’s become a photography project that I look forward to shooting because I get to meet new people and gain a little more knowledge of the businesses in Northwest Arkansas. This year I took environmental…
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![Corporate Interior Photographer]()
Can you drop a camera and take a good photo?
My old boss always had random sayings about photography that really didn’t make much sense, but somehow they still run through my head all these years later. I don’t remember the exact saying, but he used to talk about dropping a camera and every once in a while you would end up accidentally taking a good…
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F8 and be there — with a little bit a luck.
Have you ever heard the phrase “f8 and be there?” It’s attributed to being said by Weegee (Arthur Fellig) in the late 40’s, and it’s a phrase that comes through my head every time I am in one of those “is this really happening” moments. A couple of Saturday’s ago, I was driving to Eureka Springs…
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Reflections-and-Celebrations-of 10 years as a Freelance Photography – Cheers!
Ten years ago today I walked into the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, where I was a staff photographer, and gave my notice. As I stood next to the filing cabinets in the digital dark room, my boss looked at me and said, “You’re f*$king kidding me… this is a joke, right?” I didn’t really know where I was…
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2015- A year of changes for this Arkansas Photographer
On this last day of the year, I thought I would make my final blog post a reflection on the changes in my photography business. There were a lot of phone calls, emails, photo shoots, miles traveled and friends made along the way. My regular photography clients expanded from Northwest Arkansas into Little Rock and I put a…
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Lights of the Ozarks Stock Photography and a trip down memory lane…
Throwback Thursday and a quick trip down memory lane… I spent an evening last year shooting stock photography of the Lights of the Ozarks. It was a cold, quiet evening that brought back memories of an old tradition with a group of friends. Many, many years ago, I used to run with a group on Monday…
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Top 10 things this photographer is thankful for today and everyday.
Happy Thanksgiving to all of my clients and friends. It has been such a wonderful year and I am so grateful for all of you. Today is a day to express gratitude, so here goes.. 1. I’m thankful to everyone I have worked with that I can now call a friend: Art directors, stylists, assistants,…
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Why it’s never just a quick portrait
Several months ago, I traveled to Dennard, Arkansas, to take portraits of Lalla Lee Ostergren for Arkansas Food and Farm. The magazine wanted to feature her holistic lifestyle and years spent as an organic gardener. It was supposed to be just a quick portrait along with some photos of her garden, but I ended up staying…
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The story behind photographing Rosanne Cash for National Geographic Traveler
Growing up with a mother as a musician, I’ve been exposed to so many styles of music but the one that has really stuck with me is folk. I love the simplicity, the words, and especially the stories behind the words. A song is so much more than just notes and words, just like photo is…
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Capturing moments as a sports photographer
As I began my day reading about Ryan Mallett’s release from the Houston Texans, I flashed back to a moment from a game in 2010. As sports photographers, we have a split second to capture images that tell a story. There are so many factors that affect this, and many times moments are missed or…
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The Art of Motherhood: A Creative PortraitPhotographing a creative mother of four in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Last month I ran into another situation where my phrase “small town Arkansas” applied. I was hired to shoot an environmental portrait of a mother and her children at her North Little Rock home for Savvy Kids Magazine. When the subject, artist Morgan Herndon, opened her front door I thought she looked very familiar. As it…
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Contemporary Kitchen Interior
Last month I photographed the interior of a beautiful kitchen for a feature in AY Magazine. I really enjoyed listening to the owner talk about his long-standing friendship with interior designer Bruce Goff, with Domus Design Group, and the thought that went into the design and materials. I love that the he chose to make the…
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What do you do with Raw Cocoa Beans?
My car is my mobile office and it’s sometimes full of odd things. Today it has a 25 pound bag of raw cocoa beans that I brought back from a Little Rock photo shoot to return to someone as a favor for a client. On my trip back last night I began to question when I…
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Black and White Studio Portraits – Arkansas Editorial Photographer
In May, I was asked by AY Magazine to photograph 3 Northwest Arkansas individuals for their Powerful Men series. This is my fourth year to work on this series, and it is one that I always look forward to shooting. Mike Malone with the Northwest Arkansas Council. This year had a little twist to it…
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Beth Hall Photography – Arkansas Product Photographer
So many things have been happening at Beth Hall Photography over the past few months that I’ve hardly had time to update my blog. I have added new clients this year, including photographing eCommerce for P. Allen Smith. Toward the end of 2014, they launched www.shop.pallensmith.com, an online store that offers unique gifts and decor for the home…
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Environmental Portrait – Ramsay Ball – Arkansas Photographer
Beth, I can’t tell you how many people have complemented me on the photo you took for Ar Biz. I asked you to make me look good and you worked a miracle! Best wishes, Ramsay Ball
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Places and Things 2014 – Arkansas Photographer
I really enjoy end of the year recaps. It gives me a chance to really look at my past year of work and see where I improved and where I need to work harder. I get a chance to see if I accomplished personal goals and set new goals for my work. I love photography because…
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2014 portraits – Arkansas photographer
As I gathered images together to create this post, I realize just how incredible 2014 was for Beth Hall Photography. Not only did I meet and exceed personal goals for my photography, I met and photographed some really amazing people along the way. Just to name a few: former Arkansas Razorback basketball coach Nolan Richardson,…
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Northern Illinois University vs. Arkansas – Football – Sports Photographer
The Arkansas Razorbacks took on, and defeated, Northern Illinois University in September at home in Fayetteville, Ark. Here is a link to more sports photography from the game.
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Walton Arts Center – Artosphere – Arkansas Photographer
I spent time in early summer photographing Artosphere for the Walton Arts Center. It’s a community event that features music, visual arts, movement and events for kids and families. It’s really a neat experience, and it’s just one more thing that makes living in Northwest Arkansas…
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Lobster boats in Maine – Stock Photography
I was looking through old images this morning and came across these that I shot while on vacation in Maine. Every time I look at these images I am taken back to those early mornings spent wandering the docks. I love the light and color of the images, and I’m so glad photos only capture light because…
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Jeannette Balleza Collins – Creative Portrait – Arkansas Photographer
I was excited to be asked by a business publication to take a portrait of Jeannette Balleza Collins. Excited because she is not only an awesome person, but she’s a long-time friend. Jeannette and I went to high school together and our paths have continually crossed during the last 20 years. It seems like we mostly…
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Mark Zweig – Architect – Fayetteville Arkansas Photographer
I recently photographed Fayetteville architect and businessman Mark Zweig. I was really excited to meet him since I’ve admired his homes for many years on my drives through town. I can’t help but like someone who is making my city look better a little at a time. For the shoot, I wanted to try to…
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Fossil Cove Brewing Company – Ben Mills – Environmental Portrait
There’s been a bit of growth in craft breweries here in Northwest Arkansas, and it’s been fun to sample all of the new beer. I met Ben Mills, owner of Fossil Cove Brewing Company when I was asked to photograph him for an article on the growth and current beer laws. The brewery is two rooms:…
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Nolan Richardson – 40 Minutes of Hell – Arkansas Basketball
I recently photographed former Arkansas Razorback coach Nolan Richardson. It was such an honor to meet him, and I must say that I was a little star struck. When I look back at the last 20 years in Fayetteville, Nolan has always been a presence. I began attending the U of A in 1995 when the…
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George’s Commercial Kitchen – Julie Wait Designs – Interior photographer
I recently worked with Julie Wait Fryauf, of Julie Wait Designs, to photograph the commercial kitchen she designed for George’s Inc. This is a shot from the informal tasting area in the kitchen. I love the repetition in the place settings and the chairs. I’m also quite fond of all of the white… I love a clean,…
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Hugos – Fayetteville, Arkansas – Food Photographer
When I moved to Fayetteville almost 20 years ago, Hugos was the first restaurant I visited for lunch. It’s the place where the locals go that has a great assortment of food on the menu. They have awesome burgers and sandwiches, and a good selection of vegetarians options. The bottom line is you can’t go wrong with anything on the…
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Portrait Bret Bielema – Arkansas Football
In May, I photographed Arkansas Razorback head football coach Bret Bielema for AY Magazine’s powerful men. Environmental photographs are always fun because I get the chance to make the ideas in my head come to life. When I was contacted about the assignment, I knew I wanted to show him with “Never Yield,” a slogan…
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Dripping Springs Gardens – Huntsville, Arkansas – Photographer
I was recently asked to photograph Dripping Springs Gardens for a new publication called Arkansas Food and Farm. I’ve purchased many things from Dripping Springs over the last 20 years at the Fayetteville Farmer’s Market, so I was very excited to have the opportunity to spend some time at the farm and see where all of…
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Recent Portraits – Powerful Women – Photographer
I look forward to certain projects each year and always hope that I am asked to photograph them again, and one of them is Powerful Women for AY Magazine. I love the chance to meet each of these women and hear their stories of success, and life. Each one is nominated for a different reason,…
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Hamlet – Studio Photographer – Arkansas
I photographed Theatre Squared executive director Martin Miller and artistic director Robert Ford in the fall for the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal. This meeting opened up a door for working with the company on their educational shoots, promotional photos and production photo archives. One of my more recent shoots was for the promotional materials for…
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National Geographic Traveler – Tulsa, Oklahoma – Editorial Photographer
I spent a couple of days in the fall shooting a Best of the World feature for National Geographic Traveler in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I was asked to focus on The Brady District, and was given a list of places that were going to be mentioned in the article including the beautiful Mayo Hotel. I really enjoy…
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21C Museum Hotel – Bentonville – Environmental Portrait Photographer
I was asked to photograph Emmanuel Gardinier, general manager of 21C Hotel in Bentonville, Ark., for an editorial publication. Because I have photographed him before, I started to wonder what I could do differently for this photo shoot. My thought process made me think about all of the social media photos I’ve seen of the green…
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Cafe Ru Orleans – Arkansas food photographer
A couple of months ago I photographed Eggs Pontchartrain at Cafe Rue Orelans in Fayetteville for a magazine editorial on brunch in Northwest Arkansas. I had so much fun talking with Chef Maude and swapping stories about Ghazi, the man who sold them the space/equipment when they started the restaurant. I worked for Ghazi…
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Portrait Project for NWA Metro – Arkansas Environmental Portraits
I recently completed a portrait project for Arkansas Business Publishing Group for a new guide to Northwest Arkansas called Metro. The guide features tons of information about our area including Q&A’s with five “Notable Neighbors.” I was asked to take environmental portraits of each of the neighbors and capture them in their elements. I really…
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Arkansas Children’s Hospital ACHiever – Corporate Photographer
Several months ago I received a phone call about shooting for Arkansas Children’s Hospital and I had to turn them down because I had been called for jury duty. I was pretty sad to miss the opportunity. The hospital holds a special place in my heart because I spent many hours there fulfilling my volunteer…
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New York Times photo shoot archive – Arkansas Editorial Photographer
For throwback Thursday, and Thanksgiving, I thought it would be appropriate to post a photo from a shoot for the New York Times a couple of years ago. My assignment was to shoot turkeys for a possible cover on Thanksgiving day, though I didn’t quite have a clear idea of the story. I spent two…
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Vista House overlooking the Columbia River Gorge – Travel photographer
I took a trip to the West coast over the summer and I’m slowly editing through the images and adding them to my collection of stock photography. One of the places we visited one morning was Vista House that overlooks the Columbia River Gorge. The view was amazing, and we decided to head out on…
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Buffalo River, Boxley Valley area – Arkansas – Travel photographer
A couple of weeks ago I headed to the Buffalo River area to photograph fall color with a friend. Over the past couple of years I have really tried to take a little time to get out and take photos just for fun. This gives me time to experiment, keep things fresh and add to…
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Lobster boats in Maine – Travel Photography
“f/8 and be there.” ~ Arthur “Weegee” Fellig A couple of years ago I traveled to Harrington, Maine, where I spent several early mornings photographing the docks and lobster boats. On this particular morning, the sun stayed hidden behind the clouds. It came out for about 30 seconds and I was able to capture this image.…
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Happy 95th Mimi – Personal
Today’s throwback Thursday is in honor of my Mimi’s 95th birthday today. I just love this photo of her from her days as a nurse in the U.S. Navy. She is one of the smartest women I know, and to this day her mind is still as sharp as a tack. We’re…
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Sports Illustrated BCS Bowl Guide 2012 – Sports Photographer
It seems like I photograph so many things that I can’t talk about for months, so I’ve decided to jump on the Throwback Thursday trend. Hopefully this will be a fun way to display my work from the past, whether it’s recent or from many years ago. Check back because I plan to dig through…
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Arkansas Chefs – Environmental Portrait Photographer
I photographed several Northwest Arkansas chefs last month for AY Magazine and other publications. It’s always fun to take them out of their element and make them the center of attention instead of their food. I love the challenge of creating a photo in an unfamiliar space. I love the pressure of coming up with…
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Shooting for National Geographic Traveler – freelance photographer
At the end of May, I received an inquiry email from an editor at National Geographic Traveler wondering if I would be interested in shooting an assignment for them. I wonder if anyone ever says no? After all, it seems like almost every photographer says they want to shoot for National Geographic when they grow…
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Northwest Arkansas Business Journal – Business photography
I photograph a lot of the cover photos for the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal, and have for many years now. It’s always a different experience with all of the businesses I encounter, and not every endeavor ends with the most creative photo. Most of the shoots involve offices or boardrooms, so I strive for a…
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Arkansas Razorback Football Stadium – Exterior photo
I’ve been holding onto this image for a little while now, and I’m finally digging it out and putting it to good use. I’m donating an 8″x 15″ metal print of this photo of Razorback Stadium to a Facebook auction. Beginning Sept. 1st, my sister is having an auction to help raise money to offset…
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Gum Wall in Seattle, Washington – Travel Photography
I recently took a trip to the Northwest corner of the United States. The trip was nothing more than a vacation, and a chance to shoot some stock photography. I’ve been debating how to show my work from the trip, so I’ve decided to break it down into small posts from the different areas we…
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2013 Walmart Shareholder Meeting – Arkansas Corporate Photographer
In June, Walmart held it’s annual Shareholder Meeting in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with events scattered in Bentonville and Rogers. I have covered this event for over ten years now for media outlets, but this was the first year I shot solely for Wal-Mart. I really look forward to this week of work every year. It’s so…
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Introducing the New Beth Hall Photography Website: Fresh Look, Exciting Features
Welcome to the newly redesigned Beth Hall Photography website! I’m thrilled to share all the exciting updates and features that have been added to enhance your experience. From a sleek new homepage to a fresh blog design, there’s a lot to explore. The site now showcases more recent work and, for the first time, a…
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Capturing a Sunrise on Beaver Lake: An Editorial Photography Experience
This summer, I had the pleasure of photographing a stunning home on Beaver Lake for AY Magazine. In preparation for the shoot, I spoke with the homeowners and learned that one of their favorite activities was sitting on their porch early in the morning to watch the sunrise. Naturally, we decided to start the shoot…
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Exploring the Fall Beauty of White Rock Mountain in Arkansas
Over the past few weeks, I’ve made several trips to White Rock Mountain to immerse myself in the peaceful fall landscape. Nestled in the Ozarks, this mountain has quickly become one of my favorite spots. The drive along the gravel roads may take a bit of time, but the journey is just as beautiful…
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Celebrating Fall: Scenic Shots from Devil’s Den and Autumn Still Lifes
To celebrate the first day of fall, I wanted to share a few photos that capture the essence of this beautiful season. The first three images were taken at Devil’s Den State Park, where I stumbled upon a unique moment: a leaf suspended in a spider’s web. The web is almost invisible, making it seem…
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Morning Runs and Wild Encounters at Lake Fayetteville: A Photographer’s Perspective
As someone who spends a lot of time at Lake Fayetteville, it’s not unusual for me to encounter some unexpected moments. I’ve been running the trails here for years, and each time, I’m reminded of how beautiful and unpredictable nature can be. After an unusual experience during today’s run, I thought it would be the…
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Behind the Lens: Photographing Jeff Long for AY Magazine
As an editorial photographer, every shoot presents its own set of challenges and surprises. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph Jeff Long, the Athletic Director for the University of Arkansas, for AY Magazine. Given his high-profile status, I was hoping to capture him outside of the typical Razorback setting—a fresh approach that would give…
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A Scenic Drive and Photography Adventure Through the Ozarks
Sometimes, the best photo shoots happen when you least expect them. Last Saturday morning, I woke up with an urge to hit the road and take photos. Instead of taking the usual 2.5-hour drive to my family’s farm in Greenbrier, Arkansas, I decided to ditch the interstate and explore the scenic two-lane roads. I spent…
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Environmental Portrait of Ramsay Ball: Capturing the Essence of a Fayetteville Realtor
As a freelance photographer, I love capturing environmental portraits that showcase both the subject and their surroundings. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph Ramsay Ball, a commercial realtor in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on a piece of property with a stunning view of the University of Arkansas campus. Standing amidst the natural beauty of the land,…
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Shooting Game 4: A Last-Minute NBA Photography Adventure
Freelance editorial photography is often unpredictable, and sometimes that’s where the magic happens. In early June, I received a last-minute call to cover Game 4 of the NBA Playoffs between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. When I say “last minute,” I mean last minute. From Lake Run to Tip-Off I had…
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Capturing Local Flavor: The Joy of Freelance Photography at Fayetteville’s Farmers
As a freelance editorial photographer based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, I’ve found endless inspiration at the local farmers market. It’s not just a place to shop for fresh produce—it’s a vibrant hub of community, creativity, and discovery. With every visit, I uncover new photo opportunities, delicious finds, and unexpected stories. Farmers Markets: A Photographer’s Playground The…
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Capturing Influence: Portraits for AY Magazine at Crystal Bridges Museum
As a freelance editorial photographer, I’ve had the privilege of visiting the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art multiple times recently for a special project: photographing the nominees for AY Magazine’s Powerful Men and Powerful Women sections. The assignment celebrates 12 men and 12 women nominated by their peers for their influence, impact, and service…
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The Challenges and Joys of Freelance Food Photography
As a freelance editorial photographer, I’ve been diving into food photography lately, and let me tell you—it’s been both challenging and rewarding. Shooting on location means every assignment is different, with unique lighting, plating, and space to navigate. Add in the fact that food photography is a relatively new venture for me, and it’s been…
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The Adventures of a Freelance Editorial Photographer: Food, Farms, and Flexibility
As a freelance editorial photographer, I’ve had the privilege of working with AY Magazine on several assignments in recent months. It’s been an exciting journey filled with incredible people, delicious food, and some unexpected challenges. Here’s a peek into two of my recent shoots and what they’ve taught me about this dynamic career. Dining and…
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Covering the Bobby Petrino Scandal as a Photojournalist
Last week, I photographed the press conference following Bobby Petrino’s infamous motorcycle accident. Just two days later, things took a dramatic turn, and the situation quickly became the talk of Arkansas. As a photojournalist, moments like this demand adaptability. My job is to be ready at a moment’s notice for breaking news—like the upcoming press…
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The Unexpected Connections of a Freelance Editorial Photographer
Freelance editorial photography is full of surprises, and my recent experience photographing for The New York Times is a perfect example. The day started like any other—I brewed my coffee, let the dog out, and scrolled through Facebook as my coffee cooled. Little did I know, a quick glance at my newsfeed would reveal an…
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Behind the Lens: Capturing Suzie Stephens for AY Magazine’s January Edition
Freelance magazine photography is always an adventure, and my recent shoot with Suzie Stephens of Nibbles Academy of Cooking for the January edition of AY Magazine was no exception. Suzie’s vibrant personality and passion for cooking made this assignment both fun and rewarding—it’s hard not to enjoy a shoot with someone so engaging! The Joy…
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Life as a Freelance Magazine Photographer in Arkansas
Being a freelance magazine photographer in Arkansas is an adventure filled with creativity, connection, and challenge. From capturing the vibrant dishes of local eateries to showcasing the unique stories of businesses and communities, every assignment tells a story. Freelancing offers flexibility and variety, but it also requires adaptability—tight deadlines, diverse clients, and unpredictable shooting conditions…
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Freelance Photography for The New York Times: Behind the Scenes at Butterball’s Turkey Processing Plant
As a freelance photographer, I’ve had the privilege of working on a variety of assignments, but one of the most memorable was a recent project for The New York Times. I spent a couple of days in Ozark, Arkansas, working alongside a reporter on a feature story about turkeys for the Thanksgiving Day edition. Our…
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Photographing Kiva Systems Robots in a Fayetteville E-Commerce Warehouse
It’s not every day that I get a call to photograph robots, but recently, I had the unique opportunity to capture Kiva Systems in action at an e-commerce company’s distribution center in Fayetteville. These robots are truly amazing—they help streamline the order fulfillment process by reducing the physical effort required from employees. Instead of workers…
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Exploring the Art of Travel Photography: A Fun Day of Shooting Without the Pressure
I recently took a trip up north and decided to take a break from the usual work-related shoots to just enjoy a day of playing with my camera. It was refreshing to step away from the pressures of producing the perfect shot, managing lighting, or making sure someone looked just right. Instead, I embraced the…
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Photographing the Duggars: From the 2002 Election to Family Milestones
I first met the Duggar family back in 2002 while covering the primary elections for U.S. Senate. At the time, I was working for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and found myself standing outside Westside Freewill Baptist Church in Springdale, Arkansas, with April L. Brown from the Associated Press, waiting for Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar to…
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2011 Annual Wal-Mart Shareholder Meeting-Fayetteville, Arkansas Event Photographer
Wal-Mart Stores Inc., held it’s annual shareholder meeting at the beginning of June. It’s always a fun event to cover, and it’s always exciting to see the celebrities and their performances. Will Smith was the emcee this year and there were performances by Alicia Keys, Scott McCreery (American Idol), and the Black Eyed Peas. …
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Capturing the Excitement: Walker Elementary Wins P&G Future Friendly/National Geographic Contest
Last week, I had the privilege of photographing the P&G Future Friendly/National Geographic Find Your Footprint winner’s assembly at Walker Elementary in Springdale, Arkansas. This nationwide contest encouraged schools to submit their best ideas for going green, and after narrowing it down to six finalists, the public voted for the top project. To everyone’s delight,…
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Northwest Arkansas Business Journal – Environmental Portraits
Business portraits are a unique challenge for any photographer. It’s easy to fall into the trap of simply taking a traditional, stiff shot in an office, but I always strive to create something more compelling. The goal is to capture the true personality of the person—whether that’s a fun, dynamic moment or a relaxed, authentic…
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Stock Photography of Fayetteville Arkansas
As a freelance editorial photographer, every assignment brings something new and unique, and recently, I had the chance to capture the aftermath of a record-breaking snowstorm in Fayetteville. With 15 to 19 inches of snow blanketing the city and temperatures plummeting to a bone-chilling -16°F, I was out in the field, camera in hand, documenting…
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Exploring Stock Photography: Capturing New Orleans and Little Rock
Stock photography offers a unique way to showcase the vibrant essence of different cities, and my recent travels to New Orleans and Little Rock have inspired some exciting additions to my portfolio. From the rich culture and lively streets of New Orleans to the historic charm and urban landscapes of Little Rock, I’ve captured a…
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Behind the Scenes: Photographing Baldor Electric for Bloomberg News
As a freelance editorial photographer, every assignment offers a unique perspective into industries and stories that shape our world. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph inside Baldor Electric Company in Fort Smith, Arkansas, for Bloomberg News. The shoot coincided with the announcement of ABB’s $3.1 billion acquisition of Baldor, a move aimed at bolstering…
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The Art of Business Portraits: Capturing Professionals for Editorial Publications
As a professional photographer, one of my specialties is creating business portraits that capture the essence of individuals in a professional yet authentic way. Recently, I’ve had the opportunity to shoot portraits for several editorial publications, and it’s reminded me why I love this niche of photography so much. Business portraits are more than just…
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A Fresh Look: The Story Behind My New Photography Logo
As a photographer, my work revolves around capturing moments, telling stories, and bringing creativity to life. But until recently, one piece of my professional identity was missing—a logo that truly represented my brand. Thanks to the talented Mark Fonville, I now have a logo, and I couldn’t be more excited about the design! Why a…
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Capturing Moments That Matter: The Life of a Freelance Photojournalist
Honoring Brandon Burlsworth: A Legacy of Perseverance One of the most touching assignments I’ve had was covering the unveiling of the Burlsworth Trophy in Fayetteville, Arkansas, on August 23, 2010. The event honored Brandon Burlsworth, a beloved Razorback offensive lineman who tragically lost his life in a car accident just 11 days after being drafted…
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Walmart Shareholders, baseball and portraits – Freelance photographer
I can’t believe how busy I’ve been, and the month isn’t even half-way over. Yeah! It kicked off with my usual business portraits, mixed with the annual Wal-Mart Shareholder’s meeting, a little NCAA Regional Baseball, football mugs and Petrino football camp photos. Whew, I’m glad to finally be able to sit down for a day…
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Freelance Editorial Photography: Capturing Wal-Mart Store #1 for Bloomberg News
As a freelance editorial photographer, every assignment brings a unique blend of storytelling and creative opportunity. Recently, I had the chance to shoot updated exterior photos of Wal-Mart Store #1 in Rogers, Arkansas, for Bloomberg News. The images accompanied a story celebrating Walmart’s recapture of the top spot on the Fortune 500 list, reclaiming the…
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Honoring Friendship Through Personal Photography: A Tribute to Josh
Personal photography projects have a way of capturing the emotions and memories we hold closest, and sometimes, they become a means of paying tribute to someone unforgettable. While shooting a series of water photos, the lyrics of the Grateful Dead’s Ripple ran through my mind: “Ripple in still water, when there is no pebble tossed,…
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Photographing High-Profile Events: Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert at the University of Arkansas
Capturing high-profile events is an art of its own, and as an event photographer, few moments are as rewarding as photographing world leaders. This evening, I had the opportunity to document former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert’s visit to the University of Arkansas for the Distinguished Lecture Series. Events like this come with unique challenges—tight…
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Exciting New Gear and Golf Photography Adventures: My Journey with the Nikon D3
I finally did it—I broke down and invested in a Nikon D3! After months of saving my pennies and contemplating between the D300 and the D3, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. Shooting the recent Arkansas game with the D300 helped solidify my choice, and now I’m ready to take my photography to the…
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Capturing the Action: Highlights from the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships
I’m excited to share some standout photos from the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, which took place from June 10th to 13th. This was my first time covering this outdoor event, and while it was an exhilarating experience, it also presented its fair share of challenges. Photographing for the Associated Press is an interesting…
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Behind the Scenes at Walmart’s Annual Shareholder Meeting: A Day of Entertainment and Insights
On June 5th, I had the opportunity to cover the annual Walmart shareholders meeting as an editorial photographer, and as always, the experience was nothing short of spectacular. While it’s a long couple of days, I genuinely look forward to this event each year. The chance to witness world-class entertainers and see company executives in…
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Capturing Iconic Moments: Matt Jones and the Arkansas vs. Texas Rivalry
In the world of sports photography, certain moments stand out as iconic, forever etched in the memories of fans and athletes alike. One such moment for me was capturing a striking image of Matt Jones during the exhilarating Arkansas vs. Texas game in 2003. This game was not just another match; it was a clash…
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Celebrating the Legacy of the 1994 Arkansas Basketball Team: A Memorable Game Day Experience
This past Sunday’s game was particularly special for me, as it rekindled cherished memories of growing up watching the legendary 1994 Arkansas basketball team. My brother was a huge fan, and his stories about that season filled my childhood with excitement. I started my college journey at the University of Arkansas in 1995, and I…
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Capturing the Aftermath: Gov. Mike Beebe’s Visit to Fayetteville Post-Ice Storm
Today, Governor Mike Beebe made a visit to Fayetteville to assess the damage caused by the recent ice storm. I had anticipated that he would tour the area to get a firsthand look at the destruction, but it turned out he only made a brief stop at Drake Field for a press conference before heading…
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Documenting Community Resilience: More Photos from My AP Coverage in Springdale
Today, I had another busy day capturing the impact of the recent ice storm for the Associated Press, and I want to share a few more photos from my run. The scenes I encountered were a poignant reminder of the resilience of our community in the face of adversity. One of the first stops on…
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Capturing the Aftermath of a Historic Ice Storm in Fayetteville for the Associated Press
There are truly no words that can fully capture the devastation here in Fayetteville following last night’s massive ice storm. And trust me, if there were, I’d leave them to someone who enjoys writing more than I do! But as a photographer, I’m fortunate enough to use my camera to tell the story. This storm…
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Surviving a Chilly Day of Sports Photography: A Big Thanks to Marc and Lessons Learned
Let me start off by giving a BIG THANK YOU to Marc for loaning me his coat—I honestly don’t think I would’ve made it through the evening without it! You would think that by now, as a sports photographer, I’d have mastered the art of dressing appropriately for outdoor events. But when I left the…
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Capturing Tradition: Product Photography for Little Rock Crate & Basket Co. in Arkansas
This afternoon, I had the pleasure of diving into a product photography session for a family business that’s close to my heart: Little Rock Crate & Basket Co., located right here in Little Rock, Arkansas. The shoot was all about baskets—baskets, baskets, and more baskets! These shots are being prepped for the company’s website, and…
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Featured in Southern Living: Our Biking Adventure at Devil’s Den State Park Makes the September Issue
Exciting news! Hap and I are thrilled to share that we’ve been featured in the September issue of Southern Living magazine. It’s been a long wait, but it’s been worth it. This all started last fall when our good friend, Tim, who happens to be a park ranger, invited us to take a biking trip…
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Capturing Nature’s Beauty at Lake Fayetteville and My Sunroom Birdhouse: A Wildlife Photography Adventure
Who would’ve thought Lake Fayetteville could look so beautiful? While I was out there shooting for the Solar Splash event, I stumbled upon an unexpected subject—a tiny little guy who caught my eye. He was so small, yet stood out against the backdrop of the lake’s shimmering waters. It’s moments like these that remind me…
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Behind the Lens at the Annual Walmart Shareholders Meeting: Capturing Corporate Photography and Star-Studded Performances
Attending the Annual Walmart Shareholders Meeting is always an exciting event, but waking up at 5 a.m. for it? That’s a challenge! However, year after year, the meeting proves to be worth the early start, especially when it comes to photographing the incredible performers they bring in. While I may not be deeply invested in…
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McDonnell retires – Editorial PhotographerCelebrating John McDonnell’s Legendary Career: A Sports Photography Tribute to 36 Years of Razorback ExcellenceMcDonnell retires – Editorial Photographer
John McDonnell, one of the most iconic figures in collegiate track and field history, officially retired on Monday after an extraordinary 36-year career coaching the Razorbacks track and field team. His legacy is not only etched in the record books but also in the hearts of athletes, fans, and sports photographers like myself who’ve had…
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Capturing Athletic Power at the Tyson Invitational: Track and Field Photography Highlights
Here are a few exciting shots from the Tyson Invitational, one of my favorite track and field events to photograph. I’ve always been captivated by the strength and agility of these incredible athletes, especially the pole vaulters. There’s something so mesmerizing about watching their muscles in action as they soar through the air with such…
