Author is 91 years old and has lived in the same home since the 1960s. He worked on engines for most of his life and now spends his days watching the world roll by from his yard. He’s known in the neighborhood for his handmade hats—this one crafted from a Busch beer box, his favorite. He drinks just one each night. “That’s the deal I made with myself,” he said.
I had driven past Author for years, always meaning to stop and ask for a portrait. One day, with my gear still in the truck, I saw him mowing the lawn and took the chance. What started as a quick photo turned into a two-hour conversation. I brought my 15-year-old son along, and we all sat in the shade talking about life, war, engines, and beer. This frame captures the gravity of his gaze. It’s not sadness—it’s simply the weight of time.
Camera: Nikon Z8
Lens: NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S
Lighting: Single Flashpoint AD300 Pro with a small octabox camera left, slightly overhead.
Post: Black and white conversion with dodge/burn to emphasize skin texture and fine detail. Shadows deepened slightly in post to focus the attention on the eyes.
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