Kentucky Derby Jockey Project

On March 31st, I received an email inquiring about my availability and interest in photographing the Kentucky Derby for NBC.  After I picked myself off of the floor and put my heart back in my chest, I replied as calmly and professionally as I could.  I received a reply and things started to take shape.  I would be commissioned to:

1) Take creative portraits of the jockeys competing in the Kentucky Derby.
2) Document the story of the Kentucky Derby from the jockey's perspective.

So on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, I spent hours getting to know the jockeys, spending time in their quarters and shooting my heart out.  I worked alongside an amazing group of creatives at NBC.  I met and photographed people that are the fabric of Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby.  Needless to say, it was an experience I will never forget. 

What follows is a collection of jockey portraits from part one of my commission.  Art is so subjective.  I really don't know if these images are all that good.  I do know that when I took these images, I had a strong sense that I was a part of something bigger than myself.  A part of something important.  Kentucky is an amazing state.  America has a beautiful heritage.  The men and women who ride the Kentucky Derby honor both of those things in a profound way. 

Ashley & Brian at The Olmsted Mansion

I have been a huge fan of the Louisville Cardinals ever since I moved to Louisville in 2003.  So when the super-talented Ellen Fox asked me if I was available to shoot Brian Brohm and Ashley's wedding, I was floored. 

When I think about Ashley and Brian's wedding, the word "remarkable" comes to mind.  Among others which I can't repeat on my blog.  :)  Everything about their wedding was either beautifully romantic or roll on the floor hilarious.  Especially enjoyable was watching and photographing Ashley interact with her parents throughout the day.  Massive amounts of love and care were easily observable.

And I'm a sucker for a great party with close friends.  You throw in some karaoke to David Allen Coe and some crazy dancing with people up on shoulders and I might as well be in wedding photographer heaven.
 

Another sneak peak

I've been shooting non-stop lately, or so it seems.  The images that I wish to showcase just keep stacking up.  I'll get them on the blog soon enough.  For now, here's an image of the ever-joyful Kim and Jeff.  Look at those faces!