What made you want to become a photographer?
The short answer is… I was going into these awesome caves and I would describe them to people but there are some things words can’t describe.
How and why are you using Lume Cubes in your work?
If we are exploring a new cave I still like to take a lightweight set up for taking photos and Lume Cubes are the perfect option. I also use them for video lights underground.
Who are you inspired by?
The list of cave photographers is short but prestigious... Robbie Shone, Carsten Peter, Stephen Alverez, Wes Skiles
If you weren’t a photographer? What would you be instead?
Probably an EMT that goes caving for fun on the weekends. It’s what I did for years.
What is your go-to camera?
For "easier" caves I use a Nikon D750 and for more remote difficult caves I use a Sony a6500.
Going underground and into some small, dark caves seems extremely daunting. How do you stay calm and get the shot in extreme environments?
If you can get past the cold, dark, and claustrophobic environment caves are actually pretty relaxing. You are completely isolated from the distractions of day to day life. I think that helps me channel my ADD into something productive.
What is the best part of your day?
Seeing my wife when I get home from a long day underground (if she isn’t already with me).
Coffee or tea?
Redbull.
What’s your favorite photo you’ve taken and why?
There is a photo of a 247’ underground waterfall that I took. From a technical standpoint, it was easy to take but from a physical standpoint, it was a miracle it worked out. It was a coordinated effort from 2 other cavers in complete darkness with 120 decibels of water roaring in a room full of mist with hurricane-force winds blowing and we got the shot first try. That was a good thing because the lens was hosed as soon as I removed the lens cap.
If you could photograph anything in the world (person, place, thing, etc), what would it be?
Something new and exciting underground. I can’t say exactly what because it hasn’t been found yet.
What is your favorite thing about cave photography?
When you light up a massive room underground it's really the first and only time you can see the entire room at once. You suddenly realize how colorful it can be even if its in the dark 24/7.
Where is the next place that you want to shoot with Lume Cubes at and how would you use the Cubes?
My next planned trip is an annual expedition to central Mexico. As far as how I plan to use them it’s completely situational we are exploring new cave so you never know what we will find!
Describe your photography style in 5 words.
Dark, Cold, Wet, Difficult, Otherworldly.
What is one thing that you won’t photograph?
Babies.
You have been to some of the most remote places in the world, do you have a favorite?
There is a spot in the northeastern Andes of Peru. We camped at 15,000 for a month and explored new caves every day. It’s hands down my favorite! We are headed back there this year if all goes according to the plan.
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