I always loved taking photos…

but didn’t have a bona fide camera until my second son was born in 1987. Once I did, I uncovered one of my greatest joys.  That was decades ago. Camera in tow still gives me a natural high and excites me like nothing else. It’s so many things; legacy, capturing the barely noticed and sharing the gifts that I see. My own personal meditation.

I find people endlessly fascinating. Whether engaged in their daily lives or posing for a shoot, there is much to observe and learn about any individual. I generally prefer candids but with the right attitude and time, everyone reveals their innermost nature and beauty. My shoots are a combination of posed suggestions and spontaneous moments. I love being witness to this unfolding.

My preference is to shoot in natural light. With Portraiture I like to take my clients to some beautiful, unusual or inspiring locale that they choose or I sense will resonate with them. The background, whether urban or in nature, adds an additional layer to the experience. I seek a casual rapport with my clients, to help them relax and to understand what outcome they are seeking . People always look their best in photos when they are at ease.

I believe the highest Art is how one lives one's Life. I am hugely blessed to be married for over 45 years with 2 wonderful sons and 5 grandchildren, 2 boys and 3 girls. I hail from NYC but have called Eugene OR and the Pacific Northwest home for decades.

The infinite potential hidden in people, creatures and places, fascinates me. Portraying a unique moment is for me deeply fulfilling. In general I like to wander off the beaten track and photograph the unusual.

I have been a professional photographer for over 30 years doing portraits, weddings, b’nai mitzvot and stock for Omni-Photo, NYC. A combination of ongoing communication and artistic exchange with other photographers, together with a deep trust in my own visual intuition, have been my best teachers.

My work has been published both nationally and locally in magazines, newspapers and books including “New Age Journal”, “Moment”, “Healing Currents”, “Aqua”, “Eugene Weekly” and on CD and book jackets.

You may wish to check out my blog The Mystical Gardener started in 2017. Writings and photography from my garden. www.MysticalGardener.com

Recent photo of me & our pup Josie

My son Eli Raphael is now all grown up & an extraordinary photographer in his own right. Here at the age of 5 or 6 taking a photo of me with his Kodak 110 Instamatic. https://www.espophoto.com