"I did not choose Art, it chose me"

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For as long as I can remember I was always drawing, but I did not realize my ability until the death of my father in 1995; I was 9 years of age at the time. My life took a turn for the absolute worst, things became very gloomy followed by 2 years of depression looking for an outlet I turned to art! Drawing not only served as an escape, I was able to express those emotions I struggle to hard to control and dealt with. Free time in school became drawing time. My teachers realize my artistic inclination, and immediately pushed me into gifted and talented classes; this is where my talents were harnessed and developed. 

By 1999, 4 years later things picked up and really took off for me! The year 2000 was a new start.  I was accepted to a Visual & Performing Arts High School, this is when I really immersed myself into art. I studied an array of mediums and engaged in much intense training. By 2003, I found my niche, painting was my passion. I  went on to win many awards, In 2004 I received my most prestige accolade "The Governor's Gold Key Award for Scholastic Art and Writing” This was presented to me by the New Jersey Governor.

The V.P.A taught me so much; I learned some of my most valuable lessons there! I’ve learned the importance of discipline, and how to channel my creativity through art, also that I can make it as an artist! Those life essentials carried throughout my career as an artist, and here I am now! Spiritually I know I was guided to this path. I find ironic to say this but, in hindsight I feel like my father's death was a gift to me, because that pain I felt call forth my potential. I had to turn my pain into passion, he lives through my work! 

"Shards of Glass"

in ,

"Shards of Glass" post coming soon!!!! If you want to read the story and see more images from this amazing shoot please stay tuned. While you are waiting, please feel free to tell me what you liked most  about the "Shards of Glass" video?  Also tell me what inspires you comment below!!!!!!!!

To Be Continued......... #SOG

          How this all came together was simply magical. I have come to the realization it was on God's time, and it is my belief everything perfectly aligned so that this project could happen. A year ago I set out on a quest to creativity combine my "Art" with my “Photography” Initially, I had no direction but I knew I wanted to make something great. The more I pondered the more the visions started to manifest themselves. I started to scribble down little ideas as they came to me, then suddenly my attention shifted to creating a painting. I grabbed up a 30x48in sized canvas of old B&W abstract painting that I disliked and begun to work. It bothered me to even look at that painting, I was so eager to paint over I just threw anything on the canvas and of course that did not work either because I ultimately painted over that as well lol. So after two failed attempts, It was time to go back to the drawing board, the premise of this project was to be expressive and experimental at articulating my story so I wanted to create a mixed media abstract piece that would reflect that. In retrospect, looking back it is my interpretation the primary reason why those other painting I attempted to do on the same exact canvas did not work because the actual art was waiting to be used for something very special to come.

          I have never previously worked with glass, yet I sought it to be the appropriate medium for this piece. It was time to gather some bottles. I found it to be the most accessible ironically I kept coming across "Green" bottles. Boom there was the color scheme, green was also ideal because it is the color of the heart chakra, and it is said to be the color of balance harmony, and growth. Those were the exact qualities I was in search of in my life. I told myself I would take my time and I did just that tediously tinkering every rotating piece of glass. Weeks and weeks went by of me working and curiously scouring the streets for the green jewel. At least that is what I considered them to be mere trash became my treasure, it was such a vital element for the painting. I am sure my friends, family, and on lookers all thought I was going crazy picking up glass from the ground and putting it into my pocket, none the less the craziness served its purpose. Not that I used them all but I guesstimate I collected over 100 bottles for this piece all varying in size and shades of green. After I felt I had an abundance of glass it was time to break bread or glass I should say! The project was gradually coming together but I still had a long journey a head of me.

          It was time search for the jewelry that was a journey in itself. I would come across pieces I thought looked cool but it didn't strike me, and I wanted something that was striking. I visited many customs jewelry stores in the Chelsea area of Manhattan and to no avail. I took the initiative to make the jewelry myself, with that trusty ole bucket of glass and few pieces I somehow managed to gather POOF!!! like a magician waving his wand over a black upside down top hat the jewelry magically appeared. I was pretty satisfied how it turned out, it contained many layers and full of different textures much like the painting. At this point in the project I was feeling very confident because things were coming along smoothly. Being pleased with the progression of the many phases this project undertook, it was time to move on to the next stage, “The Model” And just when I thought things were going to be a walk in the park it all came to a screeching halt! I have to be quite honest this is where I became discourage, If you could see my face it was screaming the word “Nooooooooo” it bothered me because I was so emotionally invested. Instead of going in a dark corner in sobbing over my frustrations, I made a conscious decision to literally put my best foot forward, put my emotions aside and reluctantly work on other projects while I waited I often remind myself that this had to get done.  

          Although I encountered many discouraging setbacks along my journey I remained persistent. Foiled by my failed attempts I reached out to my trusty and most amazing MUA Ariel to give me a hand at casting a model she knew exactly what I was looking for so she was more than eager to assist. Weeks went by and to my surprise she came up empty handed as well. I started to question myself, “What is going on, what am I doing wrong” It felt as if the only people invested in this project was Ariel and myself, no one gave “SOG” a chance, but I believed in it. I could have easily reached out to a modeling agency but I wanted this to be authentic, I was in search of a connection. Moving forward, I can vividly remember being on Instagram one day posting pictures, I noticed this particular user liking a lot of my photos it caught my attention and I wanted to investigate. Immediately upon skimming through her feed, I excitedly blurted out “She’s the girl” At that very moment I intuitively knew I was looking at my muse for the project, she ideally fit every criteria. I tell you this girl was gifted wrapped and handed to me from the universe. The only thing that stood between us was a simple direct message, and boy I was not trying hesitate! I sent her a message that basically said “I would love to make some magic with you, she replied “I love your work, let’s do it”

          I am thinking to myself no way, this is a joke, is she serious, is she going to flake like all of the previous models!!!???? These were some of the many fears that stalked my mind upon conversing with her via Instagram. In the weeks following we communicated more and more through email. Although she showed some interest I still did not feel fully secure on the deal, all that change the moment I sent the Photo Treatment of the shoot to her, that changed everything! After reading the treatment not only did she have a new appreciation for “SOG” it resonated with her so much she felt compelled to participate. I want to add that I am not a believer in coincidence, this is just a term we use to describe the strange occurrences. Ironically, she revealed to me that her dad passed on in 2010, my dad passed in 1995, 15 years prior to her tragic experience, she also told me of a poem she wrote 5 years prior to “SOG” titled “Stained Glass” I do not know if you guys see it, but there was definitely a connection there. She believed in me, and in my vision, she handed over her trust and I can not thank her enough. During the shoot I can recall on a few occasions Noel state "Everything happens on God's time" there was a quiescence in those words that perpetuated in my head.

          In closing,  this photo shoot wildly exceeded any and all expectation I had. I am truly humbled by this entire experience, all of the disappointments, mishaps, what seemed to be failures, were all in preparation for what was to come. All of the indifferent things that took place meant absolutely nothing in comparison to the day of this shoot, it was nothing short of utter bless. I am proof that through undoubtedly believing, hard work, and just being plan old persistent you can reap the fruits of your labor and man did I reap them abundantly!!!!! 

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"Night Cap"

Created in March 2015, shooting with Kaylah Raquel was an absolutely pleasure. I have to say this shoot had the perfect chemistry for some super awesome imagery. Sometime ago my good friend and MUA Robert Porcelain suggested that we shoot with Kaylah, prior to this i have not heard of her, but he went on and on how gorgeous and spontaneous she was, when I saw her picture I thought she would make a great subject. Any who we all chatted via text to set a date and the rest was history. I was very fortunate, because another a really good friend of mine allowed me to use his luxury condo in Hoboken, N.J. to do the shoot in and I must say man oh man, I can not thank him enough. On the day of the shoot  I arrived a little early to set up and scale out where I wanted to shoot, Kaylah and Rob arrived 45min after. Upon formally meeting Kaylah she was a really sweet down to earth girl, after we exchanged some small convo it was time to get busy. As Rob was setting up  I casually made my way around the condo filming the "BTS" They pretty much had creative control over the shoot and I was completely fine with that, and because of the whole sexual ambiance of things hence the name "Night Cap"  When it was all said and done we were all blown away by the images.  As a disclaimer, please be advised this shoot is more on the sexual/provocative side and is not suitable for the younger eyes,  enjoy!!   

What Should I Buy!!!???????

Curious on what to buy? I was once in your shoes in search of what to buy I nearly reviewed and investigated many items when it comes down to photography. Along my journey I own, have owned, reviewed or used the items referenced in this post. Time after time, I get asked for recommendations and suggestions on what gear to buy, so I hope this hits the spot for some of you. As a disclaimer I am far from an expert and I am not super "techy", although I may not know all of the specifications of each product, what I can attribute is that they work incredibly well.

Personally, I love the Canon DSLR and Elinchrom system, but I am not at all bias to any particular brand I use what is comfortable and what works for me. I will suggest staying away from buying photography gear that states "Bundle Package" only invest in them if you seek the help of a professional or if you are fully knowledgeable on all of the products listed in its description. The majority of the times they throw in all these really cheap items that you will almost never use or will eventually end up replacing. I want you all to make the best investment you possibly can. Spending the money right the first time around will prevent you from spending it later, so do not be afraid to make the investment. If you are in the market of purchasing any type of gear, here are a few of my recommendations. These items address my over all things to look for when buying gear. These are the 3 essential elements for me when making my investment!!!! 

Affordable- It must be in my budget otherwise I wouldn't be able to afford it! Quality, has to be the best in its class for the price point. How Much are you willing to invest? 

Durability- The life and longevity is highly important because this determines how long you are able to hold onto your gear. Aside from some minor things most of my gear has lasted for 5 years plus. Can your gear take a licking and keep on ticking?

Portability- For me, this is highly essential because I love to shoot on location and I want to be light and nimble as possible. I had my days where I would lug all this crazy gear and let me tell you it wasn't fun. Yeah having a ton of gear on a location looks awesome but it can become a hassle when it is time to put it all away. Do you prefer a light travel or a heavy one?

Please note this is not the end all be all list, it is simply what I would recommend to people seeking to purchase or upgrade their gear. If you guys out there have any personal recommendations that you feel people can benefit from please email them to me so that I could add them to the list, Lorenzopphotography@gmail.com!!!!   

CAMERA/CANON

FullFrame

5DSR $3,700

5DMKIV $3,400

5DMKIII $2,500

5DMKII $2,000-$950Used

6D $1400

CropSensor

7DMKII $1,700

80D $1,600

70D $950

LENSES

Zoom

Canon 70-200mmIS F/2.8 USMII $2,100

Canon 70-200mmIS F/2.8 USMI $1350

Canon 70-300mm $639

Canon 24-70mm2.8 USMII $1,900

Canon 24-70mm F/2.8 EF-L $1,000

Canon 24-105mm $1,000

SIgma 24-105mm F/4 Art DG OS HSM $900

Canon 28-135mm $380

Prime

Canon 135mm EF F/2L $1,000

Rokinon 135mm F2.0 ED UMC $550

Canon 85mm F/1.2 II USM $2,000

Canon 85mm F/1.8 $350

Rokinon 85 F/1.4 $270

Canon 50mm F/1.2L $1,500

Sigma 50mm F/1.4Art $950

Canon 50mm F/1.4 $330

Canon 50mm F/1.8 II $125

Sigma 35mm F/1.4Art DG HSM

Sigma 24mm F/1.4Art DG HSM $700

LIGHTING/STROBES  

Elinchrom BRX 500 $695

Einstein E640 $499

Elinchrom D-Lite RX 4 $407

Neewer 600w Dual Power AC/DC $330

AlienBees B800 $280

AlienBees B400 $225

Fotodiox Pro M400A $200

SPEEDLITES/STROBES

Canon 600EX-RT $500

Canon 430EX II Price Varies

Yongnuo YN568 EX II $104

Yongnuo YN560 III $66

TRIGGERS

PocketWizard Pluss III Transceiver (2) $289

Yongnuo YN622C ETTL Transceiver (2) $79

Yongnuo RF-603 II Transceiver (2) $32

LIGHT MODIFIERS

Fotodiox

28" Beauty Dish white interior+Grid $172 Without Grid $108

22" Beauty Dish white interior $90

Circular Umbrella style

EZ-Pro Octa 5' $97

EZ- Pro Octa 36in $82

Pro Parabolic Umbrella 16-rib 72in White interior $80

Neewer 43in 5 in 1 Collapsible Disk Reflector $18

Rectangular

WestScott 2334 28in Medium Apollo $136

EZ-Pro Strip Box 12x56in $87

EZ-Pro Softbox 32x48in $82

 

LIGHT STANDS

Heavy Duty

Avenger C-Stand A2033LKIT $225

Matthews 40" C-Stand $206

Kupo 40" C-Stand Turtle Base Kit $200

CowBoyStudio C-Stand $152

Linco Deluxe Heavy Duty Boom Stand $78

PBL Pro Heavy Duty SC Stand 10' set of 2 $72

Linco Pro Heavy Duty 8' set of 2 with Carrying Case $61

TRIPODS

Gitzo G2220 Explorer 3 $350

Manfrotto MK190XPro3-BH3+ Q90 Ballhead $300

Vanguard Abeo Plus 323AB + BBH-200 Ballhead $297

Manfrotto MT055Pro3 055 $240

Mactrem Q666C Carbon Fiber Tripod+Monopod+Ballhead $160

Vanguard Alta Pro 263AT $150

Koolehaoda B-Q666c Carbon Firber Tripod+Monopod+Ballhead $149

Sirui T005KX 52in+C10x Ballhead $136

Neewer Carbon Fiber Lightweight Portable 66in+Ballhead $99

Induro Alloy 8M AT-013 $96

BALL HEADS

Full Size

Really Right Stuff BH55 $550

Acra-Swiss Mono Ball Z1 SP $389

Manfrotto MH0550-Q2 055 $200

Sirui K-40x 54mm $165

Medium/Small

Sirui K20x 38mm $129  

Sirui K10x 33mm $118

Giottos MH1000-652 $95

Manfrotto 496RC2 $90

Fancierstudio 6664H $39

Xcsource BH $36

Tablets

Wacom Intuos Pro Medium $350

Wacom Intuos5 Medium $350

Wacom Intuos4 Medium $225

Wacome Intuos Pen&Touch Medium CTH680 $200

Huion H610Pro $77

MonoPrice MP1060 HA60 $56

Camera Bags

Check out camera bags from the following companies

Case Logic  

Kata

Pelican

Tamrac

Think Tank

 

 

 

 

 

Relying on your photography community "Collaborating"

Sometime ago Kurt Von with http://kurtvon.com/ reached out to me via Instagram telling me that he admired my work specifically my lighting, and let me tell you I was Astatic. We have been following and liking each other's work for a while. I pa…

Sometime ago Kurt Von with http://kurtvon.com/ reached out to me via Instagram telling me that he admired my work specifically my lighting, and let me tell you I was Astatic. We have been following and liking each other's work for a while. I particularly admired his style, it is very commercial and clean, which is a great contrast to my work where as my style is dramatic and artistic. We conversed about many ventures, one of them pertained to me joining as a contributor on his upcoming project http://lightshapersmag.com/ of course I agreed it only made sense. I honestly despise Photographers who cling on the idea of keeping everything about what they do a secret. Your greatest alias are your photographer counter parts. 

Inspiration: We all know that nothing new is under the sun, But inspiration is not copying, You can always look at the work of your buddy to gain inspiration, you may see something in their work that you can take from and make your own rather it be style, coloring, makeup, hairstyle, props, lighting, the list goes on! The point is one little thing is give birth to an entirely new one and that's the beauty of it all. Speaking of inspiration Steve Reid with http://www.steviereid.com/ and I met in an interesting way, a while back he emailed telling me how much he enjoyed and gained inspiration from the videos I post on YouTube. A few emails turned into phone calls and the phone calls turned into us meeting up. Can you believe he came all the way from Detroit out to NJ to hang out with me and man we had a good time not only did we shoot together we had dinner at one of my restaurant, might I add he feel in love with the food lol.
Another thing to note about inspiration, "A grain of inspiration is enough fuel to travel through the universe"

Reference: Asking questions, is probably one of the greatest assets of referring to a buddy photographer. I ask questions all the time and vice versa, I get countless Emails of photographers seeking advice. I may not have the answer to every question, but I try to answer them to the best of my abilities. If I do not know the answer to a particular question I will simply say "I am sorry but I cannot help you with that" and I will try to point them in the direction of someone who can. Interestingly enough I a lot of times I learn a lot from the questions I get asked.

Cross marketing: Another great asset is cross marketing, chances are they are most likely to be exposed to a market or area they you may not be familiar, there is your indirect connection to models, locations, etc. The birth of possibilities are truly endless!

Here is an images shot by Kurt and retouched myself, I love this by the way!

Here is an images shot by Kurt and retouched myself, I love this by the way!

Here is my creative spin on the same image.

Here is my creative spin on the same image.

This was an awesome shoot Steve an I did together this image was shot and retouched by him!

This was an awesome shoot Steve an I did together this image was shot and retouched by him!

Here is another awesome image from that shoot that Steve shot! http://www.steviereid.com/

Photoshoot With DJ Mavric #BeardGang

In December 2014, I did this awesome shoot with a good friend and model Dj Mavric. The weather was increasingly getting cold, luckily the day we scheduled to shoot It was super sunny and semi-warm, In New Jersey to have 43-degree weather in December is not common trust me!! Anywho, we originally scheduled to do a studio session however, because the weather was so awesome I suggested to split the session and do some location and studio. I already had the location in mind, interestingly enough I always wanted to shoot in this particular area it was something about the all the trash and grunge that really attracted me. I believed it would serve as a great setting, and it most certainly did. When I pitched the idea to Dj Mavric he was down and so was I. Below is a short clip and some images from the session.

I shot this on the iPhone6 days prior to the shoot. 

I shot this on the iPhone6 days prior to the shoot. 

You wouldn't believe we shot this right behind a gas station 

You wouldn't believe we shot this right behind a gas station 

This is a BTS shot in studio. 

This is a BTS shot in studio. 

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"Could have been me, could have been you" Teaser

We were all moved and effected following the death of Travon Martin February 26, 2012. It stained the heart of the people of America all the way up to our very own president. With all of the turmoil and many travesties we are witnessing all over the country, Ibn and myself were not only inspired but compelled to put this piece together. I feel that it is vital that messages like these are shared among our communities. If this piece resonates with any part of you please feel free to share!!

To view the entire piece please visit the link below, "In loving memory of Trayvon Martin"

"Could have been me, Could have been you"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzPSZ3gUHQs&spfreload=10

Written and Directed Ibn Shakoor
Co-Directed Lorenzo. P.
Filmed: Lorenzo. P.


Up coming project "Shards of Glass"

In celebration of my 1 Millionth view on YouTube I will be releasing a project I have been secretly working on for months now!  I know some of my followers are probably wondering what happened to all of the painting stuff, because I have been so endowed with photography It has emerged to the forefront putting the painting on the back end. Although I have been busy with the photography end of things I always seem to go back to my roots which is "Painting" Stay tune this is going to be exciting, as always I appreciate the tremendous amount of love and support!!!! 

Quick Tips and Reviews

Qiuck Tip #1 Amazing DIY Reflector

I am super excited to announce the first installment of the quick tips and review section on the blog. In this video I show with just some simple items you can create an effective reflector that is useful for bouncing and reflecting light on to your subject. When using the beauty dish I personally like to place the this reflector approximately a foot under the models chin to illuminate any dark areas and bounce light in to the eyes. This is great asset to add to your lighting arsenal and the best thing about it "Its Cheap"   On a side note, if you want something less reflective just flip the board on the reverse side and that should solve your problem : )

Items
Form Core Board 20x30in
Aluminum Tape
Scissors

Quick Tip #2 Shootings with Gels DIY

This is the second installment of "Quick Tip and Reviews"
In this video I bounced around a bit, I wanted to share how I light my subjects with DIY gels, but before I addressed that I shared my story on how I got into photography, lastly I wanted to leave you guys with a positive message. As always I hope that this video was insightful and helpful! Listed below are links to the items presented!! The lighting banks you see acting as rim lights are the very same lights used in all of "How to achieve amazing catch lights in the eyes videos" I seriously love these lights, big shout out to Joe Edelman for the inspiration. As I always say, "A grain of inspiration is enough fuel to travel the universe"  

Hygloss Cellophane Sheets
http://www.amazon.com/Hygloss-Cello-Sheets-11-Inch-48-Pack/dp/B000K78HUI/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1426231139&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=cellophane+sheets

Clear Sleeve
http://www.amazon.com/We-Memory-Keepers-3-Ring-Protectors/dp/B004TTHU0Q/ref=sr_1_3?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1426231215&sr=1-3&keywords=clear+binder+sleeves

Hurricane Fog Machine
http://www.amazon.com/Chauvet-Hurricane-1100-Fog-Machine/dp/B001WM6WNE/ref=sr_1_cc_8?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1426231266&sr=1-8-catcorr&keywords=hurricane+fog

2Pac Airbrush Painting
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=giOxHpw3qZ4&list=PLVXXfEqovM9rcGSuTIbMrEPcq_aqrSnuU
 

Sirui K-40X BallHead Review

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 Crafted to perfection The Sirui K-40X is an extremely well designed ball head. Suited for the professional and photo enthusiast alike. Aesthetically this ball head is beautiful, it is evident that simplicity rang supreme here. From end to end it is high end CNC coated giving it a nice professional matte-semi gloss finish. With reinforced rubberized grips, beveled groves at the mid-section, and base of the body providing the ultimate grip allowing for maximum tightening to your tripod. This BH has two main dial one function controlling the friction of the ball head, and the other the 360 degree panning rotation. I also admire the blue accent around the dial nob. Solidly built it feels hefty in the hand and with a 54mm ball head is it not shy to the more beefier cameras, averaging a height of 6.1in and weighting in at 1.2lbs this BH has the capacity to support a maximum load up 77.2lbs. It is primarily geared to medium to large format and DSLR's photographic cameras. Now I don't know of any camera on the consumer market weighting anything thing relatively close to 77lbs but just know this baby can support it.

Let’s jump ahead to some of the features, now I would not particularly consider this a “feature” but I am really fond of the overall smoothness of this BH. Everything from the dialing nobs to the articulating rotation of the actual BH is buttery smooth. The large nob contains numerical adjustable friction and a quick locking mechanism screw locking in the dial. What is cool about this once you have adjusted the dial to your liking, you can lock in the tension preventing it from ever budging. The Sirui K-40X has a 125mm expandable Arca Swiss quick- release plate style platform suitable for a variety of quick-release plates. Included on the quick-release plate platform is two bubble levels vertical and horizontal this is perfect for optimal composition, and balancing. Also included on the plate is a red safety button preventing your base plate from sliding off, I find this feature to be very useful because I didn't have this on my last ball head. Although it has never happened I was always concerned about my camera accidentally sliding off hitting the floor, and that would just be tragic so I was in need of a feature such as this.

My impression of the Siuri K-40X it is an absolute winner, this BH is the epitome of professional ingenuity. The overall build quality smoothness of this ball head excites my expectations in performance. As I mentioned in the introduction it is crafted to perfection and virtually indestructible. Aside from the awesome features it packs such as the quick locking pin, 125mm Arca Swiss style quick release plate, two bubble levels and the red safety button. Coming in at a fraction of the cost in comparison to its counter parts, I am sure you will find this ball head a bargain. It is well packaged coming with instruction, extra quarter inch small screw for the “QR” plate, an Allen key, labeled soft pouch, generally you will only see this in your higher end ball heads, and last but not lease a 6 year Warranty you heard that right!. Paired with my Gitzo G-2220 they offer the ideal support, balance and stability.

Sirui K-40X $165

http://www.amazon.com/Sirui-K-40X-Ballhead-Release-Capacity/dp/B004QC3CMG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1433145594&sr=8-1&keywords=sirui+k-40x+ball+head

 



"The importance of using a MUA"

          I personally feel that It is extremely important and vital to have a MUA artist by your side when shooting portraits. I primarily shoot people and there are a host of benefits to reap when working with a MUA, just like you have an eye for your craft they do as well. They posses the ability to fine tune your model, and bring out the beauty in your work. Note I am not in anyway taking anything from individuals who do not use a MUA in their line of work, but I can tell you from my personal experience, working with a MUA gives my work that wow factor and that is all I strive for. Think of having a Toyota Corolla and upgrading it to a 911 Porch, and I am not even joking when I say this. It can be that much of an upgrade!

          There is a true beauty in collaborating with a MUA, the chemistry, the energy, and emotions are all the things that drives the shoot; they contribute to all of that that. I can remember during a shoot two of the talents I shot got a little emotional after seeing their makeup completed stated "I didn't realize I could look this beautiful!" Another talent had tears in her eyes in disbelief. Having the ability to do that for someone is powerful, you see I live for moments like these. I can honestly say I could not have achieved that without the help of a MUA. I also noticed that the MUA and talent end up exchanging contacts ultimately meeting up for future endeavors. You see this can create a revolving door for more business, so everyone wins! 

          In addition to acquiring a MUA, assure them that both parties can benefit from the collaboration, also let them know there will be a compensation for their time and work whether if its financial or with prints. You want to work someone who has just as much drive as you. Someone who intuitively understands your vision to where there is an unspoken communications, but this comes with time. Being talented in make up is cool but you want someone who brings things to life! If you can attain one of those he or she is a keeper. If you have yet you find one keep looking because they are out there. Use your resources, friends, family, aspiring MUA, Instagram, Facebook, Model Mayhem, local beauty supply stores, Macy's, Sephora, Mac and all of the above.

Things to keep in mind:  

.A makeup artist is your partner in crime.

.They are the overseer. 

.They can bring out the beauty in the work.

.They correct the imperfections.

.They make the work of a retouch-er so much easier.

.You can not do it alone.

."Team work, makes the dream work"

Now that I got that out of the way, I want to shed some light on Ariel Rivera and Michelle Silva! These two ladies are simply amazing at what they do, respectively they both have something special to bring to the table. They are both dedicated, energetic, charismatic, fun, loving, and great to work with. I tend to capture BTS video while the makeup is underway and each and every time I can see that spark of fire in their eyes. I can honestly say that I am truly grateful to have work with people who share the same passion as me. I can go on and on about them, but I will leave it here lol. Check out some of the work I have created with them!! 

 

Makeup By Ariel Rivera 

Makeup By Ariel Rivera 

Makeup By Ariel Rivera

Makeup By Ariel Rivera

Makeup By Ariel Rivera

Makeup By Ariel Rivera

Makeup By Ariel Rivera 

Makeup By Ariel Rivera 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup by Michelle Silva 

Makeup By Michelle Silva 

Makeup By Michelle Silva 

Lorenzopphotography MakeUp by Michelle Silver 

All off my work is made to inspire and give people hope that they can do the things they want if they apply themselves, granted everyone one is not meant to be a superstar Photographer, model, or make up artist etc... But understand there is a place for you, if you are enjoying what you are doing and it pleases the heart chances are you are on the right path!

"Satisfy your urge to become better, but never to a point where you become complacent" Lorenzo P. 

 

"The Evolution"

I did not want to make this an elaborate post, it is simply designed to show the evolution of the work. Think of it a start to finish, enjoy!!! 

This is one of my digital composite titled "Time Shift" 

This is one of my digital composite titled "Time Shift" 

This image was shot by Kurt Von, Retouched and edited by Lorenzo P.

This image was shot by Kurt Von, Retouched and edited by Lorenzo P.

 

"Happy Father's Day"

          The start of 2014 was a little rough for me, I have encountered a lot of loss in the past four months six family members to be exact. I guess saying a little rough is a bit of an understatement. Throughout all of the heartache and pain so many things have been revealed to me, this is my personal intake. Although death is rather painful it is a humbling thing to witness. it communicates to us how special life truly is. Tragedy or not God has selected the perfect equation for helping the soul transition. Isn't it a beautiful thing to have the ability to reflect upon the many memories? Life is a continuous algorithm, the spirit lives on!

          I lost my dad in 1995 at the age of 9 at that current state things took a turn for the absolute worst. I felt like so much was taken from me, but in the same return so much was given it was a fair exchange of the bad and good. I felt lost without my dad, miserable, distort, and depressed, the list can go on for the rest of this paragraph but I will save you the agony.  In the midst of all the destruction I discovered my ability to draw. I did not ask to be an artist, it chose me. There was an increased level of propensity, my life begun to change at that very moment because I found hope, an escape, a little piece of solace. I felt like I was blessed with this ability, this was a gift from my dad, a way to reconnect, a way to remember that he will always be at my side. I vowed to always honor that by giving it my all when it came to using this talent.

          Shooting this past Father's Day was truly humbling, not only did I shoot someone who is a positive role model, advocate and supporter of our young Black African American Males doing positive things. He is a teacher, educator, and coach at the High School I graduated from. He is literally the epitome of what an amazing father is. Interacting and Shooting with him and his son 2 years ago on Father's Day was the initial blessing, because not only did I use my ability to capture those intimate moments, their relationship remind me of my dad and I. So you see this is really full circle for me. At times I would wonder how things would be if my dad was still here, then I  look at these two together and no longer wonder!!!!!

          Dear Dad thank you for helping me through life, and blessing me with this gift. I will always love you, you will remain apart of me until we meet again. May your soul rest in peace!!! 

Father's Day 2013`

Shot in Lincoln Park, Jersey City. 

Shot in Lincoln Park, Jersey City. 

Shot in Lincoln Park, Jersey City. 

Shot in Lincoln Park, Jersey City. 

This is actually one of the image on my home page, I put it there as a reminder! 

This is actually one of the image on my home page, I put it there as a reminder! 

Father Day 2014   

These images are raw and untouched

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Reading this was gratifying, I am honored!! 

Reading this was gratifying, I am honored!! 

"The Journey"

The Journey

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I am learning "Photography" is a field where you have to walk the journey to find your way. I am a huge proponent of educating yourself but it does not matter how many seminars you attend, tutorials you watch, books and magazines you read, none of that stuff will do you any good if you are not applying it. The true journey begins when you pick up the camera and start pressing on that shutter. Granted you must do all of these things if not most of them to grow, however, you will not see any growth if you are not making use of the knowledge in your own line of work. As Tony Robbins states, "Learn from the master." Study the photographers who you truly admire, adopt their practices and make them your own, do them so much that it becomes a ritual. It's been said that, "Masters immerse themselves", which is true. I believe this is a powerful way to learn, but please be aware when you copy there is no room for failure, on the contrary there is no room for improvement either so be mindful of that. 


Experience and Inspiration are the greatest teachers in my book you will substantially learn from both, so don't fear the exploration. Understand that your journey is your foundation and foundation is everything. All of the blood sweat and tears, sleepless nights, sacrifices, joyous moments, investments, failures and, successes are all attributed to your journey. This is how you find your way, this is the very essence of becoming, it starts with your journey. When you are focused and your intentions and heart are aligned, your passion for the craft will propel you forward so fast some will not even begin to fathom. I guarantee, who you are as a photographer, your style, work flow, work ethic, how you engage with your subjects, clients, audience, etc. will all emerge as you walk your journey. You will find the very things that works for you, and the things that do not.  Realize that there is power in your journey, how well you can light a subject does not make you a stand out photographer, what you can bring to the table does. So don't be afraid to bring your journey to the table but you must first walk it. I will leave you with this one word "Believe"



"Creativity is not something that can be taught"