Photo Series: It's Personal


Classic Old Timer pocket knife photographed in dramatic low-key lighting.

This month, I decided to go with something simple. I wanted to focus on the personal items I interact with almost every day. You can really get to know someone by seeing what they carry on them, and the majority of these items are just that, my everyday carry, or EDC if you will.

Artistic macro shot of vintage pocket knife with shallow depth of field.

Above I have already included the images of two things I always have on my person: my ring and pocket knife. 

Let's focus on the ring for a moment. If you haven't noticed, I kinda like bears. Those who don't know me all that well, it is because of my Native heritage. My tribal name is actually ᎤᏍᏗ ᏲᎾ (Usdi Yona) in Cherokee, which translates to Little Bear in English. The ring is filled with turquoise, and is just a great reminder of my heritage, but also of my passion with this business.


The knife also has a lot of history. This small Old Timer has now seen three generations of my family. Originally owned by my deceased grandfather, my father passed it down to me shortly after graduating college. Sure, it is a scratched, dinged, and not the cleanest blade, but it tells a story. It has seen many days, been through so many experiences, and has been wielded by two beloved men in my life. I will carry it now, and continue to carry it until I pass it on to my future children.

White coffee cup with artistic latte art captured in dramatic window light.

Next is something I treat myself to regularly: a nice chai latte. I used to be a big coffee guy, but over time, I have switched sides to tea. I know, blasphemy, but who cares.


I just thought this was a cool photo. No history, no reason, just a good photo.

Classic analog wristwatch with leather strap photographed in moody lighting.

Gotta have a watch right? Here is my simple Timex automatic watch. I used to sport an Apple Watch, but lately I have been trying to limit my distractions. Going back to something this simple, it's nice. It does what it needs to do, it is a tool. It also helps that it looks pretty cool.

Vintage brown leather journal with text inscription photographed against black background.

Next is my journal. If you don't journal, do yourself a favor and start. It is super interesting to see what flows through this noggin. I have been getting into poetry lately, just for myself, and it has been a blast. I would share one of them here, but I don't want things to get awkward. (Maybe later though)


The journal itself was a gift from my good friend Austin. I honestly think he was just trying to get rid of it as he was throwing a lot of things out before he moved, but hey, free journal. I will say I did not appreciate the quote on the cover when I received it. As I pulled it out of a box after years have passed, it resonated with me. So thank you Austin, you're a real one.

Brown leather wallet with textured pattern lying open on dark background.

Now my wallet. Don't get excited, it is empty. With this photo, I really wanted to focus on the fold, and on all the texture with the scratches and wrinkles in the leather. I have had this wallet for a long time. This wallet has been with me everyday for 8 years. A lot of history here. I think it has lasted so long because it hasn't had to stretch out that much with it barely being filled, so that is good I guess.

Silver necklace with crystal-studded pendant on black leather surface.

If you have ever met me, you know this has been around my neck. This has a similar purpose of the ring. It reminds me of where I come from, but where I want to go.


Necklaces have always been my accessory of choice. I have had this chain on for about 10 years. So long where I feel naked if it is not around my neck. Doing this project was really cool, because it brought appreciation to the objects I have around me everyday, and where they came from. If you have a moment, I urge you to look at what you have on, and remember each origin.

Modern mirrorless camera with zoom lens sitting on dark wooden surface.

Lastly is the camera. This is the camera that took all the shots above. My main camera is my Sony A7 III, however, lately I have been dabbling with my Fujifilm X-T30. I recently got a new lens, and it has been a dream. I call this camera my fun camera. I don't have to be as stressed about breaking it, because it is not my main business camera. I take this guy to a lot more events, so it has been through a lot more wear.


That is all I have for you as far as the photo series goes. I hope you enjoyed the shots and learned a little more about me.

Contact Sheet

Blue patterned ring with intricate design photographed on reflective surface.
Vintage pocketknife with dark handle and silver trim in dramatic lighting.
Cup of cappuccino with decorative foam art in morning sunlight.
Classic analog watch with black dial and brown leather strap on dark surface.
White wireless earbuds in charging case glowing against dark background.
Folded pocketknife with wooden handle photographed in dramatic lighting.
Car key fob with electronic display photographed in low light conditions.
Mirrorless camera with attached lens and strap resting on dark surface with shallow depth of field.
Brown leather journal with text inscription and strap closure against dark background.
Silver pendant necklace with crystal embellishments on black leather background.
Brown leather wallet with textured pattern open on black background.
Brown leather iPhone case with dual camera cutout on dark surface.