It’s been a better part of two years since my old friends in Vindicated got together to play music. In fact, it’s been about the same since I saw so much as one of the guys face-to-face. My first introduction to the band was sometime in 2003, when I showed up at one of their early shows at the Blue Moon in Neenah and offered to snap some live photos. This was around the time I first begin to pursue photography as a hobby. Being a melodic metalcore band by virtue, their shows were intense and eye-opening to the local Christian music scene. Vindicated started small here in Appleton when the guys were in high school and continued on through the years gaining much indie acclaim in the scene while playing to large shows at both Lifest and Cornerstone.

After becoming a new fan and after shooting the band live a handful of times, I had the chance to shoot my very first band promotional photos. I knew nothing about promo shots, but I did my best with my capabilities at the time. I later went on to design the artwork for their self-titled EP and develop their web presence. As I tell all the clients I work with, my belief is to consistently create these relationships with them and see that they grow stronger. This is one group of guys that I can call my lifetime friends.

Early Vindicated promos:

I was sad to see the band break up. But I knew that it was their time to head in seperate directions. Simon Nielson went on to handle live percussion for The Wandersing Sons and is still living in Appleton. Brian Beyer is now flying commericial airliners, as I knew he would someday. Ben Schauland and Steve Hetland are now in Still Remains signed to Roadrunner Records, touring nationally. Nate Dengel is currently playing with Ivory. Adam Woloszyn is in college and continuing his work in web development. Rob Fontecchio is still working here in Appleton.

I was excitied when I got a call from Ben and Steve this past month to tell me they were home for the holidays from their year-long tour with Still Remains and wanted to hang out. I was even more stoked to hear they were starting to jam out some new tunes for Vindicated and wanted me to shoot some new promos. It’s uncertain where Vindicated’s future lies, but it’s looking promising as ever. A “little bird” told me they may be playing an upcoming show and even work out some new songs to record in the coming year. Who knows.. All I do know, is that it was good to hang out with Ben, Steve, Rob, Nate, and my photo assistant Adam.. Who is now handling drums for the jam sessions.

The promos rocked and we had a blast shooting them, aside from freezing our a$$es off! Just ask Ben.

Steve and Ben (left/right):

YOU CAN VIEW MORE OF THE PHOTOS HERE.

These guys have always given 100% of themselves to me and are even true fans of my work. The feeling mutual.

~dave

I’m so stoked to say that I’m working with Chad Tafolla from beneaththesky for my total identity re-branding and design of my new website. Chad’s got ill skills. I’m so fortunate to bring him on board for this huge undertaking. Keep checking back for updates.

~dave

After driving more than 20 hours during the past six days, covering five cities and two states, across some ridiculously harrowing roads… Melanie, Tobin, Zoee and I have finally settled back into home, safe and sound. I haven’t completely settled into my new work routine yet, but soon enough. My official first “full-time photographer day” is January 2nd. And I’m so ready for it! I’ve been getting my sleep, eating well and have nestled into my strict running regimen again.

For those who haven’t been following my blog, I wrote up a big “article” on my transition from full-time cop to photographer. I have received some amazing comments and feedback on it. My long-time friend and photography mentor Zack Arias has posted the article over at www.onelightworkshop.com. Many thanks and respect to Zack for using my work as a contribution to his highly inspirational site! YOU CAN READ THE ARTICLE HERE.

While off with Melanie on my “hiatus”, we had the chance to visit my brother-in-law Chris and his fiance Lindsey in Chicago. We had an amazing time while we were there! Lindsey hooked us up with some sweet digs! We stayed at an upscale downtown apartment right on Michigan Avenue. The place was truly amazing. As a token of our gratitude, I shot their engagement photos over the course of two days. Below are some shots of the apartment. Melanie and I absolutely love Chicago in the winter!

Shots from the balcony.

Ahh yes, sweet livin’..

Looking out our windows..

And yes, the beard came with me..

I shot Chris and Lindsey’s engagement photos in a true “lifestyle” way. We didn’t make it out to dinner until 9pm. Which for Melanie being pregnant, was way past her bedtime. Nonetheless, she was a trooper! We ate….twice. First at China Grill on Michigan Ave, then at a more reasonably priced grill. Appetizers at China Grill ran a bit more than $120.00. WERD.

We also stopped at the bar where Chris and Lindsey were engaged. It’s really cool for me to shoot these types of photos, in locations that have meaning a couple’s relationship. Following them around for two days proved to be so worthwhile.

VIEW THE PHOTO SLIDESHOW HERE!

~dave

Greetings from our 13th story apartment on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Nope, not a hotel room. But an apartment. We leased it. Melanie and I are downtown shooting some location engagement photos for Chris and Lindsay. Not to mention we are enjoying some time away from the our girls. Man, this 50 degree weather is kickin’ and will make for some killer shots…

Gotta run and grab some eats and wine. I’ll be sure get some pics up soon.
~dave

What an awesome holiday weekend so far! I’ve been enjoying some much needed time away from my everyday life with my family, throughout Wisconsin and Illiinois. I’ve eaten more cheese than I can shake a fist at, re-united my romance with the New Glarus Brewing Co. and have been to bed by 11pm for the last five days. Life is good! Although it seems like I’m on vacation, the career move hasn’t really set in yet. No doubt, I’m looking forward to the first day “at the office!”

Speaking of Christmas, I have to say that I got the BEST Christmas gift ever! Look. Mel dropped this bomb on me… After virtually searching everywhere, both in person and online, she came across a pre-owned copy of the book “WAR” by the VII Photo Agency. The book includes photographs by one of my favorite photojournalist’s, James Nachtwey. You can check out more of his work from this book HERE.

Many people have commented lately about my beard. Well, I have two more weeks and it’s gone. It has been the fruit of my labors for the past three months. But what else would go great with a red beard? A 1960′s era winter smoking cap. Yup, Dad had one! And of course, I wore it all week!

No, I’m not a Russian hitman..

Anyways, I hope everyone had a great holiday weekend! Here are a few more shots from the past couple of days.

Mel’s cousin Zach. He hooked me up with some awesome tunes for my iPod. Long live death metal!

Melanie and I on Christmas Eve at Larry’s church in New Glarus. I had to give Mel a hard time about such a smug smile..

Tobin after church..

Santa came to visit Tobin, Zoee, Emma, Ben and Matthew on Christmas Eve. Look at Tobin’s face!

Oh yeah, what did I get Mel? THESE gallery wrapped on canvas at 16×24. Just AWESOME!

Merry Christmas!

~dave, melanie, tobin & zoee