How did you first get into photography?

My wife and I owned a small café on the South Coast and we needed a menu. I started playing around with a little Nikon Coolpix camera and took some photographs of cutlery for the design. That was the beginning.

People began commenting on the images, so I printed a few and hung them in the restaurant as décor. Before long, customers were asking if they could buy them. I remember saying to my wife, "Maybe I could actually have a career in photography."

The rest, as they say, is history.

What do you love most about photography?

I love the surprise of it.

So much is revealed simply by wandering through everyday streets and seeing what's around the next corner. It's about the people you meet, the places you discover, and the unexpected moments that appear when you're exploring without a plan.

I'm always looking for a different shot. I rarely set out with a specific destination in mind. Instead, I enjoy getting lost in search of an image that catches my eye — seeing things that others might walk straight past.

Photography has taught me to slow down and pay attention.

What camera do you use?

For many years I used the Hasselblad X1D II, a camera I absolutely loved. Unfortunately, it was badly damaged while I was photographing in San Francisco after I was knocked unconscious by a falling tree.

It gave me the opportunity to start with a clean slate and rethink my equipment.

I now shoot with the Fujifilm GFX100 II. One of the things I particularly enjoy is a setting that reminds me of my old Canon 20D, allowing me to preview black-and-white images while shooting. It's inspired me to return to monochrome photography and explore that creative side again.

What are your other passions outside photography?

Food, without a doubt.

I love cooking for family and friends. Whether it's homemade pasta, a slow-cooked meal, or a bowl of ramen made from scratch, I enjoy the entire process.

Food is definitely my love language. Bringing people together around a table and sharing something you've created is very similar to photography—both are about connection, storytelling, and creating memorable experiences.