Profile

Visual artist specializing portraits, and still-life photography. Proficient in capturing high quality images and organizing materials for photoshoots, while exhibiting professionalism at all times.

WORK HISTORY | FINE ART

Defense Logistics Agency | DSCC Columbus, Ohio                            Nov 2022 – Present 

Multimedia & Communications                                                                                     

• Serves as Lead Photographer for the Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC) installation and tenant's activities. 

• Serves as personal on-call photographer for the Commander-in-Charge.

• Serves as primary still photographer for events, editorial, product, advertising, and studio portrait photography, as well as photographic editor and archivist for all portraits and imagery.

• Produces quality photographs & multi-media presentations of desired subjects, scenes, concepts, materials, or data used to represent DLA Land & Maritime mission in an aesthetically pleasing manner.

• Conducts pre-planning exercises before command productions, which consists of: reviewing scripts, studying the subjects and subject matter, surveying backgrounds and layout with the required lighting and specialized camera/accessories to achieve desired results.

• Attends training events, seminars, and subscribes to various photography publications in obtaining the latest knowledge, skills, advancements in technology, and equipment for improving image quality and precision.

• Conducts testing and evaluation of photographic systems, after procurement, prior to every shoot, upon the return of equipment from repair, and prior to and after returning issued equipment from other DOD personnel.

• Coordinates with military, government, and contract personnel, prior to all photographic assignments to review plans and procedures and to determine the equipment and lighting needed to capture the desired imagery.

• Maintains historical film, glass plate negatives inventory, and digital data-base and equipment exchange within the photographic library.

• Assists customers in retrieving photos from events and shoots. The incumbent maintains and operates photo printer, providing prints when mission relevant and appropriate.

• Performs processing work, i.e.: prints, repairing damaged photos, charts, or printed material, and produces slides.

• Using specialized photography equipment such as high-speed cameras, special equipment accessories, or other equipment to complete highly detailed assignments.

• Uses professional editing software in use in the industry to enhance contrast, color, and density of images by manipulating software tools to adjust lighting and remove obvious flaws to ensure proper image quality.

• Selecting and staging scenes and events that generate high degree of satisfaction.

• Makes prints, reproductions, slide-graphs, and generating computer presentations with the photos taken.

• Operating audio visual (AV) presentation equipment.

• Cropping, and retouching images to correct flaws in the product.

Snipes Studios | Worldwide                  Aug 2014 – Present 

Freelance Photographer           

• Freelancer who specializes in natural light & in-studio portrait photography.

• Specializes in headshots, dramatic portraiture & abstract architecture.

• Creative Director responsible for the visual style and images of a production which
  includes: Planning, location scouting, set design, mood board creation, procuring of
  garments & time management.

• Consultant for brands on themes for magazines, visual campaigns and photo shoots.

• Proficient in 35mm film, medium format, digital, black & white photography as well as HD video recording.

• Uses Adobe Photo editing software to correct, crop, tone & color grade images.

• Ability to communicate effectively to clients as need to ensure the goals of the shoot are met.

• Strong eye for style and trends within: editorial, lifestyle, portrait & fashion Photography.

Go Studios Penthouse | New York                May 2021 – Dec 2021

Studio Manager                          

• Maintained inventory of In-House photographic equipment.

• Maintained and recommend upgrades to digital imaging equipment.

• Ensured photographic lighting, grips, filters, modifiers & electronic equipment is in working order before and after use.

• Liaised with engineers that may be needed for clients projects.

• Booked studio space needed by client listing.

• Created attractive and effective marketing campaigns for the studio.

• Prepared equipment invoices for clients.

• Controlled and update studio owners calendar, and maintain an awareness of all activity important to the owner.

• Monitored and facilitate verbal, written, and in-person communication on behalf of the owner using the latest technology Review proposal, inquiry, recommendation, and other communication; gather, prepare and analyze for relevance and/or assure that background information is provided. 

• Ensured staff are responsive to owners communication and provide timely response.

• Prepared, process, track, and create and submit travel authorization and voucher for the Director's travel, as well as travel for occasional special guest and visitor.

• Arranged and prepare agenda for a variety of meetings, including the regular staff meetings.

• Book cleaning services as needed.

• Coached, facilitate, and solve on set problems.

• Kept abreast of latest technology, software, and tools used to produce quality products.

Photoville [United Photo Industries] | Dumbo, New York            Sept 2017 – Aug 2019

Programing Intern/ Lead Photographer          

• Hired as In-House Photographer for all United Photo Industries events.

• Official photographer for the Photoville Re-purposed Shipping Container Festival.

• Prepared, review and analyze submission for upcoming galleries shows.

• Curated galleries, stage artwork and photographs for upcoming exhibitions.

• Produced high resolution still and video images of the Gallery’s fine arts collection.

• Created high-resolution, quality images & video of the gallery’s collection artworks, temporary and permanent exhibition installations, gala’s & events.

• Photographed a variety of two and three dimensional art objects including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and graphic arts.

• Ability to provide research and reference services.

• Evaluated technical requirements for photography and other digital imaging projects.

• Worked closely with Public Relations Manager, Social media coordinator, outside editors and PR Team to prepare pre-press digital files for a range of applications.

• Maintained and recommends upgrades to digital imaging equipment.

• Processed and created prints to be used for publications, exhibits, and displays.

• Ability to analyze and solve problems related to visual and documentary materials in photographic collections.

New York Edge | Brooklyn, New York                                               Jan 2018 – Jan 2019

Photography Instructor | PS/IS 178 St. Clair McKelway  

• Hired based on my knowledge of the fields of documentary photography and photographic history.

• Taught basic principles and techniques of visual arts, storytelling, art history & the technical aspects of cameras, while establishing safety procedures to students in the activities. 

• Organized, lead and promoted interest in the Visual Arts, including incorporation of Art History into lessons.

• Evaluated the technical requirements of each project, selecting cameras, scanners, video cameras, proper accessories and supporting equipment for each assignment to produce final images that meet the school’s standard of quality.

• Supervised and oversaw the daily operation of the photography studio and digital imaging equipment, including cleanup of classrooms at the end of day.

• Helped students develop the ability to communicate effectively other than in writing. To observe, discuss, write about their art and find their “Visual Voice.”

• Knowledge of library principles, concepts, and techniques.

• Maintained and recommended upgrades to digital imaging equipment.

Who Wore That Magazine | New York                                            Oct 2015 – Feb 2016

Lead Photographer for Who Wore That Magazine                                      

• Served as a photographer, providing expertise and state-of-the-art skill in taking photographs.

• Captured, processed, cataloged final image choices for printing.

• Served as photo editor for the agency to ensure the proper capturing, processing, distributing, and archiving of all still imagery.

• Edited photos that ensured quality and subject meets requirements of management.

• Responsible for supervising and managing personnel, models and talent.

• Liaised with the organizers and models on required theme.

• Prepared shoot site with equipment and tools as needed for particular projects.

• Undertook photography contracts and coordinated with creative director and the client.

• Enhanced photographs and visual representations for use in communicating the mission and impact of Who Wore That Magazine 

• Attend meetings and briefings with “WWT” leadership.

Jose Pagãn Photography | New York                                             April 2015 – Oct 2017

Assistant to Lead Photographer                               

• Evaluated all technical requirements for photoshoots.

• Prepared sets according to the customer’s requests and the photographer’s needs.

• Unload; set up the cameras, tripods, lights, and other equipment the photographer will use for the session.

• Ensured that in-camera photography settings were configured to optimize end-product outcome.

• Managed work sites and equipment set up and other logistics.

• Captured images and video at mentor’s request using image capturing devices.

• Provided specialized still and video photographic support.

• Operated on location and studio still and video cameras and editing equipment.

• Supervised the daily processing of images for lead photographer.

• Processed all images taken in digital form through photo processing software.

• Use image editing software to correct blemishes in photos, cropping photos, adjusting contrast, tone, or lighting using Adobe Media applications on during and after sessions.

• Handled customer inquiries, processing payments, distributing orders, and assisting customers during photo shoots.

• Managed and cared for photographic equipment, supplies, and materials.

• Work closely with Public Relations Manager, Social media coordinator and PR Team on event photography schedule & needs.

• Maintained and recommended upgrades to digital imaging equipment.

• Accounted for waste of supplies, film, batteries and equipment.

• Secured, cleaned and closing the workspace after client sessions.

U.S. Navy                                                                                         April 2009 - June 2013

Public Relations Officer/ Military Squadron Liaison                                  

• Military Squadron Digital Media Custodian who captured all military squadron events and award ceremonies for yearly military scrapbooks.

• Captured photos of military aircraft and mechanical support equipment.

• Use image editing software to correct blemishes in photos, cropping photos, adjusting contrast, tone, or lighting using Adobe Media applications on during and after sessions.

• Developed photos and created framed collages as gifts for V.I.P military members.

• Provided specialized still and video photographic support.

• Directed photographic quality control.

• Managed priorities and time constraints.

• Managed the integration of photography software and compatibility between software.

• Determined optimal photography setting and required equipment.

• Operated on location and studio still and video cameras and editing equipment.

• Managed and cared for photographic equipment, supplies, and materials.

• Supervised performance of this tasks and consulted other workers to assist or train them in doing this tasks.

• Assisted in carrying out the public affairs program and produces materials that support the commander's public affairs goals.

• Advised Public Affairs (OPA) senior managers on the operational performance and capabilities of still camera configurations and laboratory equipment.

• Screened and diffused challenging media inquiries for senior public affairs, director and communications executive.

• Oversaw the administrative functions of senior management official’s office including managing the offices financial responsibilities.

•  Proofread and assembled reports for board, public, or external or official meetings.

• Worked in conjunction with a central administration team to ensure the smooth administrative operation of the office.

• Oversaw cross-departmental scheduling of Military V.I.P’s civilian tours, and work meetings.

• Liaison to Advisory Council; established and oversaw protocols for interaction, coordinated meetings and worked with staff on items requiring follow up.

• Developed and booked lodging, car service and developed detailed travel itineraries for senior management, including all logistics for appearances and all movements to and from meeting destination.

• Experience making senior management official’s travel arrangements including developing complex domestic and international travel itineraries and schedules, booking all reservations for accommodations and preparing and processing all travel authorizations and vouchers in an automated travel system.

• Served as confidential assistant to military senior officials including receiving telephone calls and visitors from within and outside the organization, answering or referring inquiries to appropriate individuals, reviewing and keeping abreast of all correspondence and e-mail, determining actions required by others and ensuring that deadlines and responses are tracked.

• Represented, spoke and presented information to individuals or groups on a local or national level.

PHOTOGRAPHIC SKILLS

• Extensive experience of capturing images in studio, on location, galleries, and outside and at off-site locations.

• Expert in studio strobes, flash photography & continuous light to create portraits.

• 5 Years of Creative direction which includes: Planning, location scouting, set design, mood board creation, procuring of garments & time management.

• Experience using Hasselblad, Canon, Sony and similar brand format digital systems. 

• Use image editing software to correct blemishes in photos, cropping photos, adjusting contrast, tone, or lighting using Adobe Media applications on during and after sessions.

• Proficient in PC and Macintosh Operating Systems, Microsoft Office, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Adobe Photoshop & Adobe Photoshop Lightroom. 

• Excellent interpersonal skills and customer service skills.

• Skilled at communicating with clients and advising them on poses and gestures that are visually pleasing. 

• Ability to communicate effectively with clients & onsite team concerning job expectations & project goals.

• Produce photographic and video coverage of social events, galas and award ceremonies.

• Ability to complete photographic service including taking, developing, printing and enlarging pictures.

• Ability to scan negatives and slides for digital printing and historical archiving.

• Darkroom image processing experience.

FEATURES

• Rolling Out Magazine/ Lusters - New York Style Icon 2016

•   Hunks For Hope Against Domestic Violence Leadership Award [2016]

•   Photoville - CONTAINER EXHIBITION Finalist: New York Film Academy – Student and Alumni Exhibition [NYC 2017]

•   Taji Magazine - "Must love Beards" [Aug 2016]

•   Essence Magazine - "Issa Snack! 19 Beautiful Bearded Black Men Reveal What It's Like Being In the #BeardGang" [2017]

•  The Huffington Post - "Bearded Dapper Gents: Changing The Narrative And Perception Of Black Men One Image At A Time." [July 2016]

•  DLG Media Inc (dlgmedia.nyc) - "Bearded Dapper Gents Demystify Young Black Men Stereotypes." [July 2016]

•  GreySuede.com - "Bearded Dapper Gents: Changing the Narrative and Perception of Black Men." [July 2016]

•  Projectinkblot.com - "Kendrick, Spike, Bearded Dapper Gents - No Stereotypes Here! [July 2016]

•  Naturally Happy Hair Magazine Summer of 2016 Edition - "Beyond The Dome."

•  The Huffington Post - "I Am A Man! Young Black Men Continue to Use Their Images to Change The Narrative." [Dec -2016]

•  Taji Magazine - "Good Black Man Profile: Nestle Snipes" [Dec 2016]

Awards

•   Rolling Out Magazine/ Lusters - New York Style Icon 2016

•   Hunks For Hope Against Domestic Violence Leadership Award (2016)

•   Photoville - CONTAINER EXHIBITION Finalist: New York Film Academy – Student and Alumni Exhibition (NYC 2017)

EXHIBITIONS

•  New York Film Academy Graduation Show [2017]

•  Photoville - Container Exhibition Finalist: New York Film Academy – Student and Alumni Exhibition [2017]

•  Photoville - New York Film Academy – Alumni Exhibition [2019]

VOLUNTEER WORK

Hunks for Hope Against Domestic Violence | Brooklyn, New York                                                  

•   Hunks for Hope Board Member.

•   Recruit male team members as representatives to raise social awareness of domestic violence in local communities.

•   Partner with self-defense instructors to host free self-defense courses for women.

•   Organize annual empowerment workshops that teach women and men about self-love, self-awareness, fiscal responsibility.

•   Capture and edit portraits of male representatives for annual calendar and online brand marketing.

The Bearded Dapper Gents Collective for Men’s Empowerment | Brooklyn, N.Y.                              

•   A Brothers Duty - Program providing mentorship & custom suits to at risk young men.

•   Raised $15k for our initiative through crowdfunding.

•   Recruited five young men as mentees to provide guidance, motivation, emotional support, role modeling and career path assistance.

•   Partnered with New York based organizations [Pens for Power, 100 Suits for 100 Men & Foster Care Unplugged] to fight child literacy & to address the needs of underprivileged men and women in need of business attire in the New York City area.

•   Awarded “Lusters 2016 New York Style Icons.”

Spread Love the Brooklyn Way | Brooklyn, New York                                                  

•   Donation based nonprofit that provides food, clothing and toiletries to underserved & homeless individuals.

•   Negotiated prices for food & supplies from local wholesalers for our initiatives

•   Developed relationships with various soup kitchens, shelters and churches to recruit individuals and families to serve

•   Partnered with entrepreneurs in the Tri-State area as our “Street Team” for delivery and dissemination of goods at designated locations