For me, negative space in a photo evokes a feeling of freedom. It’s an invitation for my imagination to create possible stories and behind the image. Wide open skies or snow-covered fields that go on for miles, a sun setting into the sea spreading reds and blues across the horizon, plains of grass dancing as the wind runs through.  Photos that capture the quality of space pull my thoughts into a peaceful place where I can be still. My eyes move in the direction of the small details of the photo, wondering what they’re thinking, what their next move will be, where they’re headed.

I wonder what negative space in our lives would look like. I wonder what creating more space would do for the dreams and passions I have. I wonder if getting rid of the clutter and being content with stillness would bring more clarity to the things I really want to pursue. Negative space makes me wonder…

This first shoot of the year was a refreshing start to 2010. Sometimes I find running a photography business to be more business than actual shooting… and that can be hard. It’s like going to the gym for the first time in a month… you still have some muscle memory going on, but your body is lagging a bit and your reflexes are a little clumsier than normal. Sometimes the first workout can be painful and hard to get into…. other times it can be just the thing you needed to feel alive and refreshed. This shoot with my friend Kory Kraning was the latter…. just what the doctor ordered and it felt great breathing in the cool salt air, hearing the beautiful sounds of my Nikon snapping away, and kicking some sand around as we shot some sweet portraits for his new website that will be launching soon.

In many ways, Kory is somewhat of an inspiring character in my life. As long as I’ve known him, I’ve noticed the fervor with which he’s embraced the entrepreneurial spirit in starting his own businesses. He’s taken the gifts he’s been given and used them to help others in so many ways. Here’s some images from the shoot…

Him and his dog Leo….

One of the many businesses Kory runs is a Dog Training business. He’s REALLY good… so if you know of anyone that needs a good dog trainer… he’s your guy!

I love this picture of Leo because it shows his love for Kory. Wherever Kory goes… Leo watches longingly. (Leo also really likes making sand castles… hence the sandy face…)

I think this was one of my favorite’s from the morning…

I spliced together a little 24Hour-esque composites too…

And the morning would not be complete without a few stair runs…

I’m excited to see where Kory’s Personal Training will take him…. if you’re interested in connecting more with Kory, he’s currently accepting more clients. You can connect with him at his website, on Facebook or Twitter.