PORTRAIT :: High Steel

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High Steel Construction Workers by Chip Bunnell Photography

Click to Enlarge – See the Details

It has been said that if you want to hide something, simply hang it above people as they never look up. The typical human world is viewed by looking straight ahead. Occasionally we look down to make sure we don’t trip. Maybe we look left or right when called, but our field of vision is focused at eye level. With a camera in hand, my goal is to find the sights and angles others do not see. It feels as though this opens a new world of sights and surprises that many others never know is happening. A walk through downtown Miami afforded me a chance to once again prove this fact.

Miami is again in a cycle of revitalization and growth. Old buildings are getting a good old fashion South Florida facelift while others are being born right before our eyes. On the ground, ugly barricades and dark mess securing the area are the normal scene. High above, well that’s where the real action is happening! Add a long lens and you almost feel like you are part of another world. Tiny details become real as you are teleported from the ground to a new level high above the street.

This particular building is in the early stages of its long life. Tons of rebar are connected to form the rigid skeleton of the new high-rise. Like yellow spiders, these workers scurried up and down, side to side as they performed tasks that are critical to the future building’s success. Small wires tie together steel bars. Bunches of steel bars are attached to larger frames of wire panels. Layers of panels are connected to even more steel as they slowly and meticulously  build their towering creation.

Soon, the spiders will have moved on. Concrete will have covered their grid masterpiece. What they spent weeks or months completing will never be seen again. Years later, the city will welcome the newest addition to the skyline. Only they, and the lucky few that looked up on that sunny Saturday afternoon, will remember how the yellow spiders’ skills in weaving their high steel web made it possible for many others to have freshly painted offices, the smell of new carpets and a wonderful view.

Single Image, Processed in LR and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com

MATERNITY :: 7 Month Sunrise

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Maternity photography by Chip Bunnell

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When I first learned the wonderful news of Emily’s pregnancy, I immediately thought how incredible it would be to capture her journey. She happily agreed to allow me to do a series of photographs, capturing the miracle of her changing body from month to month. Years from now, she will be able to share with her son how he grew and, for a very brief time, how they were literally one. A couple days ago, I had the privilege of continuing our project in a fun, very Florida location.

Several hours before the sunrise, we both awoke in our respective homes and prepared for a photo session on the beach. My goal was to capture her beauty in a natural place that she enjoys. Fueled by excitement, we met and found a wonderful stretch of sand. The air was calm and the seas flat. In the distance we could see the blackness of the sky turn to a dark blue, followed by oranges and yellows. After firing a few test shots, we went to work. All went smoothly as the mom-to-be smiled and posed more naturally than an experienced model. The sun rose quickly while we varied looks, outfits and scenery. Soon, we had a memory card full of images that would soon become precious works of art.

During our action packed morning, we kept hearing a strange, yet familiar sound in the distance. It started ever so faintly. As the clock ticked on, the sound became louder and more pronounced. Yes, it was the call of the wild pancake. The sound lead us to a wonderful local cafe with truly wonderful pancakes. Much to my surprise, I was even treated to this morning feast by my hard working talent. It just doesn’t get any better!

Each moment will only happen once – ever. The question is if we will notice that moment and truly live it to the fullest. It is an honor for me to be entrusted to capture a few special moments and help the memory last for generations to come. 7 months down and a lifetime to come; Emily will be an exceptional mother.

Single Frame, Processed in LR, PS and Topaz Clarity

www.ChipBunnell.com