About six months ago, I came across a micro gallery online and was instantly inspired. The idea stuck with me. Like most things in my life, I moved slowly at first—feeling it out, seeing if it was meant to be. But once I started moving on it, things came together surprisingly quickly, as if the idea had been waiting for me to say yes.

From design to build to installation, this has been such a special project. I wanted the structure to reflect my own aesthetic (inspired by Sea Ranch architecture), but more importantly, I wanted it to feel approachable. Galleries can sometimes feel… well, a little too precious. I wanted OMG to feel like the opposite. A place of curiosity and joy, right there on the street.

Since the beginning, I’ve pictured kids on their tippy toes, peeking in the windows, pointing at the art, or maybe even showing their own work here one day. If I had seen something like this as a kid, I know it would’ve lit a spark in me. Art is a form of freedom, and I want everyone to feel that.

At its heart, OMG is about community. I love this town and the people in it. My hope is that this tiny gallery creates a small but meaningful moment of connection for anyone who passes by.

The plan is to feature a new exhibition every couple of months. To kick things off, the first show is my own fine art photography. If you’d like to follow along and see what’s next, give us a follow over at @ojaimicrogallery—all the info is there.

A huge thank you to Johnny for building this incredible space, to Max and Charlotte for offering a central location where everyone can enjoy the work, and to Michelle for her constant encouragement and support throughout the entire process. Couldn’t have done it without you.

Studio Visit: Cheryl Humphreys

I’ve been a fan of Cheryl Humphreys’ work for years. There’s something about her process and her use of color that’s always stuck with me—quiet, intentional, and full of feeling. So when I finally saw her work in person at a local gallery, it hit even harder. I knew I had to reach out.

After months of back and forth, we found a day that worked. I got to spend a few hours with Cheryl in her studio, which felt like walking into a calm, focused world. It’s always such an honor to be invited into an artist’s creative space, where so much unseen energy goes into making the work we admire from the outside.

I also brought my friend and DP Graham Walzer along to shoot some video. There was a natural rhythm to the day—no big production, just a gentle collaboration. Cheryl was so open and grounded. These are the moments I love most—when everything slows down and you’re just present with someone, witnessing their process.

Some images from that day are below as well as the video. Enjoy :)

Hayley

Ojai is a small town, and eventually, everyone’s paths cross. A few months back, I was planning a test shoot with a stylist friend when she randomly asked, “Do you know Hayley?” I didn’t—but funny enough, I had just seen her at a concert and immediately noticed her. She had such a cool presence, effortless style, and this grounded energy that stood out.

Turns out, she’s also in the industry, a talented hair and makeup artist. We got introduced not long after, and I asked if she’d be open to me photographing her. Thankfully, she said yes.

The images below are some of my favorites. A mix of film (35mm and 120) and digital. I had wanted to shoot some video too, but juggling four cameras was already enough for one day.

What I love most about this shoot—and what I’m leaning into more these days is the looseness of it all. No pressure, no big production. Just a conversation, some laughter, some quiet, and seeing where the light takes us. Thanks Hayley, for saying yes.

Lauren

Lauren and I were introduced through a mutual friend on IG. We had been trying to shoot together for what felt like years—maybe it actually was. Last month, we finally made it happen. I showed up at her place with a few pieces of clothing I’d picked up and three film cameras. No shot list, no agenda—just shoot and have fun.

We wandered through her neighborhood, talking about everything from parenthood to music, fashion, and the state of the industry. It was an easy, inspiring afternoon with a fellow creative. Below are some of my favorite images. I hadn’t realized I was shooting on expired black-and-white film, but in the end, I love how it turned out.

Images shot on a Mamiya 6, Contax T2, and a Nikon F4

At home with Gen Z & Gen Alpha

Tasked with capturing a moment in the life of Gen Z/ Gen Alpha, I had the opportunity to witness the sweet, messy and occasionally awkward life of tween and teenage girls…. Within these shots, you can see the brief and seminal experience of transforming from a child to young adult, that fleeting moment where little becomes big.  Sisters, staring at their phones, practicing beauty routines on themselves, each other, or on a doll that is a relic from a very recent past. Playing with slime, but engrossed in TikTok, adorning themselves with fake nails during lunch with their mom…. Ordinary moments caught as a homage to childhood, innocence  and cringe worthy memories.

Mexico City, Mexico

As I reflected on my accomplishments and experiences over the past year, and set the groundwork for a fulfilling year ahead, I realized the things that stayed with me and brought me joy were the moments, not the things.  My time with my son, spending time laughing with friends, weekend escapes to new places, and renewed interest in viewing art in all its’ forms; these  are  the moments that inspired me and helped me through every challenge the year brought.  With that in mind I determined the year ahead would be driven by the intent to create more of those moments.  To travel, to look at art, to shoot more film and make more videos, buy less, enjoy more, and create beautiful experiences with the people I love.  To cook meals from scratch, with care, and share food  and wine and laughter.  To be present, to be curious and to really expand my horizons both literally and figuratively.  I was lucky enough to start this year doing all of that, in Mexico City.  I was so truly inspired by the color and the craft, the flavors and the pace of this incredible city. The beauty of the surroundings and the innate sense of vibrancy and history present everywhere  reinforced my goal to slow down and appreciate the moment.   I wish the same for you in the new year, despite the challenges we have already faced, despite disheartening moments or an uncertain future. Let’s look at art, make beautiful things, and enjoy every moment of it.  Cheers to what’s next.

Reflections & Gratitude

As the year comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on everything it’s brought—the good, the challenging, and the in-between. Looking through my photos from this year, I’m struck by how the dark, moody images feel especially meaningful right now. They remind me of the quiet moments, the struggles, and how light always finds its way in, even when it’s subtle.

This year wasn’t perfect, but honestly, that’s what made it so real. There were ups and downs, lessons learned, and unexpected joys. Through it all, I’m so grateful—for the people I’ve connected with, the projects that pushed me, and the small moments that caught me off guard in the best way.

As we step into a new year, I’m holding onto that feeling of possibility. Anything can happen, and that’s such a beautiful thing. Here’s to what’s ahead—more light, more growth, and more stories waiting to unfold.

Summer Days :)

From solo surf camp trips to San Onofre to lake life in Michigan, we had an epic summer of fun and new experiences. Time spent alone reflecting, journaling, and setting goals was a great way to fill my tank and take on the rest of the year. My son and I took a trip to Michigan to visit several families, two of which live here in Ojai and have lake cabins. If you’ve never been to Michigan in the summer, I highly recommend it. Our days were filled with playing in warm crystal clear water and evenings with S’mores, bonfires, and lightning bugs!  I'm incredibly grateful for all of it and will treasure the memories we created for the rest of my life.

FAMILY TIME

I got to spend a little time with this beautiful family capturing loving family moments. That includes the beautiful and the messy :)

Desert Bubble

Creative experimentations in Joshua Tree, CA.

Ryan & Marissa

Shot on location in Los Angeles on 35mm film.

Collab: Lou Mora X Taryn Kealani

(please turn sound on and enjoy)

Collab: Lou Mora X Fernando Pino

Collab: Lou Mora X Fiona Clark

Collab: Lou Mora X Justin Krietmeyer

We see something in nature :)

The Seabrookes Family

Have you ever come across a person, or in this case a family that you find striking and/or inspiring? Enter the Seabrookes family. They somehow came across my radar via IG and I immediately wanted to reach out and see if they would be open to letting me shoot some pictures of them. Below is a selection of those images (film & digital).

Ian Collings

Over the years here in Ojai I have been lucky enough to become friends with some really amazing humans. Ian is one of those people, and recently I went to his outdoor studio space to watch him working on his new collection of sculptures.

Stapelstein - Play any way, all day.

I have to say this might be one of my all time favorite shoots. The product is amazing and made ethically, it inspires creativity and imagination through open play, and they are absolutely beautiful to look at and have in your home. We’ve had a set in our home for some time now and not only does my son and all his friends love them, but I also use them for all sorts of things.

Below are some of my favorites but if you’d like to see more, click here!

Studio Visit: Kevin Appel

I recently caught up with Kevin Appel at his home studio in Los Angeles. It had been too many years since I last saw Kevin and it was a real treat to catch up and spend some time in his world.

A father & son trip into the desert.

When I was growing up, all I wanted was to spend time with my dad. He was often gone, working during the week. On the weekends he would come home and shower me with anything and everything I wanted. At the time I loved it, sort of, but as I grow older, and now with a son of my own, I realize all I wanted was time with my dad. I wanted his attention, his love, his touch. I wanted him to want to hear me, listen and help me. Now, I’m a father and I am here for my son - listening, helping, teaching, and most importantly, loving him.

We’ve been on a father/son road trip to the desert since Sunday, it’s now Wed. and we go home tomorrow. It’s just been the two of us, together, laughing, hiking, swimming, dancing, and eating together. I asked him his favorite part of the trip so far, he said, “ spending time with you papa.” That’s it, so simple! I love you Teo ❤️

Celebrating 420 with Aster Farms

“Hotboxing” is a term used to describe the act of smoking inside an enclosed space to increase the concentration of smoke in the air and thus, it is believed, intensify the effect of the drug. Hotboxing refers to the act of enclosing a space, such as a car or room and smoking cannabis to increase the concentration of smoke in the air. The idea is that the additional smoke inhaled by everyone present will make the effects of the drug more intense. Thank you Aster Farms!

Enjoy :)

Land Rover LR4

I have a special place in my heart for LR4’s, and my buddy Matt has a 2012 that we took off roading into the mountains during a winter storm. It was an epic adventure with great conversation about cars, family life, and work. 

Get outside, explore, and fill your tanks with whatever brings you joy. Cheers! 

Jive Surfboards

I asked my friend Jacob Ells of Jive Surf if I could film him shaping a board he’s making for me and he was kind enough to open up his workspace for me last week. I love his words about shaping boards: “It's about the relationship, the interaction, the creation formed between the shaper and the surfer. It's the expression of one's inner person that spreads love and deepens the connection. The closer you are to that moment and the more you are involved with that creation the more love and joy are experienced and shared.”

Thanks Jacob!

Studio Visit: Ren Von Hasseln

I’m consistently amazed by how many prolific creatives live in our small town. Some would say it’s the vortex that calls them into our valley, others that it’s the proximity to LA. Either way it brings me so much happiness and inspiration to be surrounded by such a variety of incredible talent

I recently met and visited with Ren Von Hasseln of Ren Ceramics in her beautiful home studio, just down the street from my own home. I’m drawn to much of what she creates but the massive hand built vessels and planters are particularly stunning. It was so inspiring to hear about her process and intent to start making her own glazes in the near future. I’m excited to see where her work evolves and what the future brings for her. Thanks for having me Ren!

Dark⚡️Stormy

My buddy Mark has a beautiful 1982 Porsche 911 SC Targa that I’ve wanted to photograph for a bit now. The foggy Fall mornings we’re having here in Ojai seemed like the perfect opportunity and Mark was kind enough to get up early with me and head up into the hills to shoot… and I’m so thankful because I love the moody vibe and stories these photos tell. Thanks Mark, appreciate your efforts and support of me doing what I love most.

Gear Patrol X Blundstone

This was a super fun project shooting for some of my favorites, Gear Patrol and Blundstone. What a combo, right? On top of that. I got to meet Daniel Dooreck of Danny D’s Mud Shop. Daniel was more than welcoming and we got to hang out and chat about his start in ceramics and where he wants to go. I also got to peek at his beautiful collection of Toyotas.

Thanks Joe and Daniel for a fun day!

Studio Visit: Ian Collings

I’m always so grateful for the interesting people and places photography leads me to, the friendships that are forged and the experiences I would never otherwise have.  

I recently visited the studio of the prolific sculpture Ian Collings to photograph his freshly completed collection REFIGURED before it shipped off to exhibit. I don’t have the words for how beautiful his works are in person. If you’re in NY I highly recommend you make the time to see it- you have until October.

Ian it was a great pleasure and I look forward to the next time! Let’s grab a beer soon.

At home with Serena Mitnik-Miller

Serena is the owner of General Store, a loving mother, surfer, incredible artist and friend to a very wide community. We spent an afternoon together at her soulful home and here’s what we came up with. Serena, it was truly a pleasure. Thank you.

Gio of Gato Heroi

I dragged my friend/art director of Gato Heroi on a four wheel drive adventure into the mountains for some photos. Beers, film, friendship, and here we are. Thanks for the good times Gio. Let’s do it again soon!

Ali Chanel

Ali is a muse turned friend, and we recently got together to record her second pregnancy on film. Since then she welcomed sweet little Given Rhodes into the world and I couldn’t be happier for her family. Congrats Ali, and thank you for everything!

FORD

This was a really fun three day shoot (2 days alongside TV & 1 day stills only) for Ford Maverick via Wieden + Kennedy. It’s always amazing to witness the creativity that happens on the motion side and then have the opportunity to capture stills in my own style. My producer Emilie Mueller worked her magic for location, crew, talent, food, and the always important crafty :) Thanks E!