Hey readers! Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself to E&I. I am looking forward to sharing with you some of the things I encounter. As a photographer I have always been torn between being part of the media who covers things I am interested in versus being a participant. I would much rather compete in a bike race than shoot a race! However, participation leads to inspiration. Even though there are times I should be working, I find that my time skating and surfing are really part of “my work.”

Participation also involves sharing which is why I am here. Lately I have been able to meet and photograph some inspiring and influential people in my life and in the industry. Pro riders, pro builders, manufacturers, shapers, and artists. They are the real experts. I am just here to share some of what has rubbed off on me.

Someone once said, if you do what you love for a living then it is not work at all. It is not always true, but we need to remember this core message. If you are working too hard right now and feeling burnt, then go get recharged! Get back in the water, get back on your board, or back on two wheels. Get back to the thing that got you here in the first place. For me, it was important to bring my personal life into my work, but maybe some insiders need to put their work back into their personal life. Go ride! Even if it is just a few hours of freedom, you deserve it.

Taken while at play and while at work. San Onofre, CA