the Gracies – Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Recently worked on a documentary with Brasilian director Pedro Gorski about Hélio Gracie, one of the founders of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, and an all-around amazing human being. As always, I was found behind the still camera, producing production stills. Without a doubt an extraordinary group of men across the board, and it was an honor getting to meet each one of them. Here are a few selects from the experience.

We started at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy in Torrance, CA. We interviewed with Rorion Gracie and his sons, Rener and Ryron. While there, we also interviewed Ed O’Neill, who has been training at the Gracie Academy for 18 years *AND* is a black belt!

On the last day of production, we found ourselves at the home of Royce Gracie. We finished off the shoot with a couple of short interviews.

Can’t wait to hit the big time so I can start taking classes!

the Fenceline

Not too long ago, I worked on a short film called the Fenceline. I was responsible for both production stills and the one-sheet. (AKA the movie poster) It was my first experience photographing on a movie set, and truth be told, I wasn’t quite sure how I’d like it. I imagined there being dozens of people on set, a good amount of tension, and a HUGE amount of chaos. Not typically the work environment I’ve grown accustomed to!

Suffice it to say, I was extremely pleased to find that production ran as smoothly as a well-oiled machine. I’ve been told that it really all depends on how well the Assistant Director does her/his job, but in this case, it was really great. I look forward to shooting for more films in the future!

Here are some shots from the production, starting with the one sheet. Enjoy.