A little bit about myself; I am a 23 year old Junior at Oklahoma State majoring in Education who has been taking photographs for about 5 years. I am completely self-taught and pretty much started learning from scratch with a Kodak DX7590 point and shoot. Photography is really a passion of mine and I'm so glad I've discovered it this early in life.

A Few Matters of Business

So in all honesty, I never thought I would be receiving enough views to even have to put this in here, but I think it's finally reached that point. So first, all of my pictures are copyrighted and cannot be used anywhere for anything without my permission. That includes blogging them. 99 percent of the time if you ask me first, I will allow you to blog them where ever you like, but it's hard for me to keep track of them if people don't ask first. Also, please, no group invites with large glittery images or anything like that; I usually just delete them because they are distracting. Aside from that, enjoy my stream and a bunch of history below! God bless :)

The Beginning

I started out taking pictures of just about anything except people (unless I got suckered into taking pictures of my family because I was the "photographer"). I made the normal errors of going out and taking 20 pictures of 20 different things and hoping they would all turn out. It was a bit frustrating for awhile, but I got extremely lucky a few times with some butterfly pictures that really got me hooked. My family and friends have been one of the main reasons I have continued (along with loving photography myself) as they have always supported and encouraged me. Kudos for them because I know they even did it when my pictures were...shall we say less than stellar?

Project 365

Shortly after purchasing my first portrait lens, I decided to get a Flickr account. I had been a member of Deviant Art for a year or so, but their community was very unfriendly and unwelcoming to unestablished artists. I will have to say I found it to be the complete opposite with Flickr as I was greeted warmly by numerous people almost immediately.

I had never heard of Project 365 until I joined Flickr and ran across a lot of photos with titles like "39 of 365" and began to explore a little more. The overall consensus from most people was that project 365 really helped you grow as a photographer. I will have to say that I had my doubts; both about whether I could be diligent enough to take a picture every day for a year and whether it would actually help me grow as a photographer. It's kind of funny looking back as I write this 131 days later because I humbly thought I was a decent photographer when I started. Now, looking back, I don't think those photos were all that great and even photos I took a month ago seem different than the one I took yesterday. I encourage anyone who wants to grow as a photographer and individual to try this project out.

Note on Self-Portraits

An interesting note on self-portraits I thought I would throw in here is that before I started project 365 the only self-portraits I had really ever taken were hand held I-Need-A-New-Profile-Picture self-portraits. Now, 131 days into this project, nearly half of the photos I have taken are self-portraits. I would not say that I had a lot of insecurity issues before this project, but I probably had some. As this project has progressed those issues have disappeared in the wake of seeing myself portrayed in so many different ways on a regular basis. I also swore before I had heard about project 365 that I would never do portrait work; much less self-portraits. Oh how the times have changed :-P.

Hooked on Strobist

I will have to say that in conjunction with Project 365, the whole concept behind Strobist has changed my photography forever. Before discovering www.strobist.blogspot.com/, I thought the only people who could do off camera flash were people in fancy photography studios. I got started after I found an old Canon 188a flash and started firing it manually during long exposures because I didn't have a wireless transmitter. I kid you not, the first time I did this, I did a little dance looking at the 3 inch LCD screen on the back of my camera. My pictures suddenly looked so different. Eventually, I wanted to find a way to fire my flash wirelessly and first looked into Pocket Wizards as they were the most talked transmitter. At over a hundred dollars a piece, there was no way I could afford it. Then I ran into the Cactus V4 transmitters. For forty dollars and an old Canon flash found in my parent's photography stuff I had a flash off the camera. I'm positive that my photography will never be the same because of it.

The Daylight Evolution

So I won't lie. I got the strobist bug bad for awhile. Every single one of my pictures was dark with lots of flash and artificial light. It was fun for awhile and I still enjoy it obviously, but a little over a month ago I got sick with a pretty high fever one day. I was bored and not really feeling well enough to do much of anything. Taking pictures usually cheers me up so I took my camera outside to shoot some pictures of me blowing sugar out of my hand. These pictures turned out surprisingly well considering my condition and the daylight evolution has begun. I have really enjoyed working with natural light since then and there are certain things it can do that you just can't reproduce with artificial light. There is just something so powerful when you are being illuminated by nothing except God's wonderful light.

The Flickr Community

Although I am a bit biased being a member of Flickr, I will have to say that this could possibly be one of the most tight knit groups for it's size. This community really never ceases to amaze me and is another big reason for me continuing Project 365. Anytime I've posted a picture and mentioned I've had a bad day or that I am going through a rough patch people have left comments checking on me, encouraging me, and praying for me. It really is quite amazing and I thank each and everyone of you who both views and comments on my work. I am probably overly critical of my work, but you all humble me every day by taking the time out of your day to view my work.

Any other questions about anything photography or otherwise just shoot me some Flickr Mail and I'll be happy to get back to you ;)

Photos of Zack Ahern (20)

Zack Ahern's favorite photos from other Flickr members (5,094)

Contacts (681)

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Testimonials (40)

  • view profile

    Skooter11 says:

    "I believe, as a fellow photographer and artist, that it is every artist's goal to make the viewer feel moved and experience some sort of emotion. My teacher once said, "A unique and incomparable piece of art will either comfort the afflicted, or afflict the comforted." And I know for a fact, that every single time I view Zack's photography I am either afflicted or comforted. Most of the time, I have to remind myself to breath.

    Also, I know Zack to be an amazing person, which to me is more important than any talent anyone could ever acquire. I know this through his work, descriptions and the few flickr mails we have shared. His love for Christ is inspirational. I believe that Zack is going to travel far with his talent. I can't wait to see what he does next."

    11th November, 2010

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    pollywaffle says:

    "Zack's photographs are incredible; unreal. Every single one tells a story: they are original, meaningful creative, and perfectly executed. I don't know any other photographers who have quite such control over light, use it in such creative ways, and who seem to have ideas flowing from them constantly. Such a talent! =)"

    6th September, 2010

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    Rob Woodcox says:

    "Zack, you are my biggest inspiration on here. I am glad I ordered those huge prints from you because they are a great role model for me to look to. I find so much truth and meaning in your art and you put so much effort into everything, that alone deserves an honor! Thank you for being kind, I can attest that a large print is worth it btw :P

    Please continue and never stop at your talents. You will make a huge impact on this world!

    P.s. teach me some lighting haha!"

    29th August, 2010

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    SuperPipo2010 says:

    "Zack is a genius...no that's wrong....Zack is the genius of all geniuses!
    His work is so inspiring and amazing in every way. He is the master of light....nobody is better with strobes! But in additon to that Zack bring so much emotion in every picture that you not see very often. He is an true artist. His pictures take my breath away....everytime.

    Don't ever stop being that amazing Zack. You are the best!"

    17th July, 2010

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    rikkims says:

    "Zack, I have never seen any photography quite like yours. Your pictures are so unique and emotional and most importantly...stunning. Really, everytime I look at your stream I find myself saying, "How on earth did he do that!!" I think I've mentioned this before, but in real life I basically faint when I see blood, but whenever I look at your pictures that have your homemade fake blood in them, I'm always fascinated by it and it's like I cant stop looking at it. Its crazy.
    Basically, you are amazing at what you do so never ever stop taking pictures."

    21st June, 2010

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    courtney.ngo says:

    "Ummm where should I began?? Zack is extremely creative and his photos are one of a kind. He continues to inspire me to become a better photographer. All of his photos are unique and well thought out. Every time he uploads something, I am amazed. His ideas are endless, and he won't disappoint. So add him as a contact if you haven't!! :)"

    18th June, 2010

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    Colton Witt Photography says:

    "Its very hard for me to write Zack a testimonial. Thats because there really isn't words that can describe his photography. Either that or way to many good words! Your photography is the most inspiring work ive ever seen. You are my favorite photographer on flickr, and by far my favorite photographer ive ever seen! The emotion and feel you can accomplish in each photo is amazing. You can create any type of portrait, and any emotion in them. (the blood ones are some of my most favorites.) You are also really good at teaching photography in your blogs and answering questions also. ( i would pay for lessons haha). As i said before your photos are insperational. You inspired me to try self portraiture, and portraiture in general, and taking these are the most fun i've had! I even have been trying blood photos because of you too, because of how much emotion you can put in a photo by using blood. From your 1st to your 649th photo (which is all you have right now for future readers of this) not one of them has been average or common, they are always new and creative and amazing! You must have a big imagination to be able to think of all these brilliant ideas for photography!
    Keep up he amazing work, even though thats a for sure thing.
    Cant wait to see more,
    cant wait to bea ble to buy some of your photos!
    Colton."

    8th June, 2010

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    Billy Wilson Photography says:

    "Zack is very productive, which is shown by his fully completed 365 project. He is very determined and constantly works to evolve as an artist. The rate at which he comes up with his ideas and is able to make them into pictures amazes me and I wish I could be as efficient. He inspires me to work harder with the pictures that I take. He strongly sticks to his ideas, concepts, and artistic vision and doesn't allow anyone to change the way he views things. It really amazed me when he first commented on one of my images and added me as a contact. Overall, Zack Ahern has many attributes of an artist and photographer that I look up to."

    23rd May, 2010

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    The girl. Amelia. says:

    "I think you are incredible, and it seems like flickr does too.
    Technical strobist skill to simply using natural light, you master both, infact you master everything photography throws at you. I realise that I haven't commented on all of your photos but please know I have looked through all of your stream all, thirty six pages, and I love it more than words. I couldn't pick a favourite because they are all fabulous. If I was 1/100th as good as you I would be so happy. You are an incredible photographer. Never give up."

    17th May, 2010

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    thuyt photographyy says:

    "Wow zack. You are my all time favorite photographer. I'm not even going to lie haha. Your photos always have some kind of meaning to them and thats what make them so special.. I love how you always have the most amazing ideas, lights, and bokeh. You are my inspiration. I just wanted you to know that. Everyday, I look forward to seeing a new photo from you. I really wonder sometime how you are so good. Gah i don't think theres enough words in the world to describe how talented and amazing you are! I guess your photos can do the talking hahaha.

    I hope i can get to be as skilllled as you are. Keep doing such an amazing work. :)"

    15th May, 2010

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    Until_you says:

    "So I still remember the first picture i saw of Zack's when i stumbled onto his stream this one I never saw anything like it, it was beautiful,meaningful,and inspiring, i didnt think he could get any better. Well he did, his photos mean something. He is odviously talented but he never shows in the least that he will stop learning, he pushes himself more then anyone ive seen on here,and never stays confortable, he shares his struggles but never forgets to learn from them. I love what his work stands for and how it defines him and I should have written this a long time ago. He will stay as one of my favorite streams.He's an artist."

    12th May, 2010

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    emmy ann :] says:

    "zack,
    your photos are brilliant. Brilliant isn't even the right word to use. i don't know what is. i always love coming to look at your photos, because you put so much time into them, and you must work hard getting them. I admire your passion for photography, and you have a great talent, that you use very well. Your photos always have the perfect light, the perfect pose, and perfect everything. :) Never stop taking pictures, ever."

    17th March, 2010

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    bigfrosty8 says:

    "Finally I am getting in gear and writing this testimonial. Its hard to know what to say when I'm looking at your stream. Everything is just so interesting and so well thought out that to describe it is almost impossible. You've got a great eye for photography and a lot of creativity to add a little something to your photos that really you cant find anywhere else. I am not sure how you do it, but thats part of the mystery behind your photos. I hope to see you posting as often as you do, your work is inspirational and has just the right amount of emotion."

    14th March, 2010

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    Twig Capra says:

    "Who am I to write about Zack? When I first viewed his work, I assumed he was one of the many untouchable, amazing photographers on flickr. But after a few exchanged comments, I quickly realized he has an extraordinary amount of genuine kindness, and, as we all know, talent. He has both inspired me, and challenged me in my 365 project, keeping me from quitting on more than one occasion. Zach is not only versatile in many styles, but he shines just as brilliantly in the light, as he does in the dark."

    4th March, 2010

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    Liz is moving! says:

    "Zack is the conductor of light.

    I swear he has this power that allows him to control natural light with the swish of a hand. His photography absolutely amazes me.

    :)"

    26th January, 2010

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    : : Sashy : : says:

    "So, what can i say about him that hasn't already been said?
    nothing probably, but i can always try, right?
    He is simply awesome.
    The way he portrays situations in his daily portraits, the way he handles the light, the views and colors he combines in his pictures are simply incredible.
    I really love your work Zach!
    Keep it up! :D

    Sashy"

    25th January, 2010

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    Originataly says:

    "Ohmygoodness,where the do I begin?! Zack is unbelievably talented! Every single shot he takes is complete perfection. He is a genius!! I know a lot of people would have already said this a million times in their testimonials but I cannot emphasis this enough..... Zack Ahern is... AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!! You will never be disappointed with his work, every single upload will blow you away!

    Zack you're such an inspiration and honestly one of the reasons I check out Flickr everyday and to see how you will amaze me next."

    6th January, 2010

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    alex [in wonderland] says:

    "Zack Ahern.
    He is incredible, which anyone who has taken a minute to browse his work realizes. But the beautiful thing that sets Zack apart is how touching and memorable each of his photos are. His words make my heart cry and his photos inspire me to find more beauty in life. He is a wonderful photographer who grows exponentially with every click of the shutter."

    5th January, 2010

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    Elsie{In Wonderland} says:

    "Everyone of Zack's photos are truly amazing. His self portraits are all so unique and fantastic! The lighting and locations are so incredible. Your going places! do us all a favor and never stop =]"

    27th December, 2009

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    GraceAdams says:

    "After following Zack's photostream for a while now, I figure it's about time to write one of these.
    His artistic style is always intriguing and unique. The warmth that is captured in many of his photos is simply a Zack thing, something no one else I've seen has been able to accomplish in quite the same way. It is obvious that he puts thought and care into his work; not only this but it is evident through his photos and words that he is a man of great character. It is truly a pleasure to see each new work of his and I am looking forward to see which direction his art will go from here."

    22nd December, 2009

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    My Imaginary World says:

    "I see a true artistic photographer who is still settling into his own skin. Looking back through the beginning of his stream, you see someone who was struggling to find himself, to find his place amongst other photographers. Now, he has a style all his own that inspires others.

    I am quite amazed by Zack's photographic ability because not only can he emit raw emotion in it's truest form, but he has grown tremendously in a short amount of time. His passion in God, in life, and the ones who love him shows through his work. To feel one's charisma through moments frozen in time is quite a rare, beautiful thing.

    I always look forward to each and every upload to see his light shine...and it shines brightly."

    22nd December, 2009

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    Boy_Wonder says:

    "Zack is talent through and through. The amount of skill that is evident on a daily basis through his photostream is incredible. His vision and direction is always incredible and his work is some of the best on Flickr. I'm constantly amazed and awed at the beautiful images that he is able to create."

    21st December, 2009

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    Allison Newbold l www.allisonnewbold.com says:

    "Zack. You are amazingggg :) I love all your portraits. I feel like every single self portrait that you post gets me closer to knowing you more and more. You are great with light. Each of your photos are so beautiful, just so you know that! Congrats on your FP :)"

    21st December, 2009

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    L-O-V-E1 says:

    ""This has got to be one of the most interesting photostreams
    Zack inspires me so much he is so talented
    i just love his work."

    9th December, 2009

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    .Alison Kate says:

    "Master of Strobe!
    haha, well Zack is really great and he never ceases to leave me speechless with his incredible photos. The are really quite spectacular.
    and he's really nice to talk to. :)
    Keep it up please!"

    30th November, 2009

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    caiti borruso says:

    "Zack's photostream amazes me. He and sunlight are a beautiful thing together =) Plus his light-painting photos are so fun and creative. He's amazing with strobist too. He owns light. And he's improved so much already!
    Keep up the good work!
    Caiti"

    29th November, 2009

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    shapeless dreams says:

    "Zack is one of the most talented, insipiring people here on flickr. He has yet to fail me with his beautiful black and whites, and colorful sunset photos. Every single upload blows me away, and leaves me anxious for the next day's photo. The lighting, composition and everything is just perfect in every single photo. If you haven't looked at his stream yet, you should go look nowww!! It's really amazing."

    23rd November, 2009

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    Kaylalyak says:

    "I don't really know Zack very well but I look through his stream every time he adds a new picture and each time I am blown away by his amazing shots. I am quite jealous of his awesome skills but I learn a lot from him :)"

    23rd November, 2009

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    WhItNeY (can only upload 24 more pics ) says:

    "Well I don't know Zack real well but what I do know about him and of him I like. His pictures are amazing and such and inspiration to me. Not only in his photography but in his faith. He is always quick to answer any questions that I have and help out in anyway.
    One of my favorite flickr friends keep up the good work Zack :)"

    19th November, 2009

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    Steven Sites says:

    "at first glance, zack's pictures are nothing short of phenomenal. gorgeous lighting that few people can achieve, strong composition, and consistency, which many people lack. anyone could scan through his photostream and see countless shots of more or less perfection.

    but when you slow down and make the connection with the photo that it deserves, and read the entries zack puts along with them, you realize there is a lot more at work here than an impressive photographer; there is an impressive human being. this is not a flickr drone you will never hear from. there is this overwhelming emotion in every frame, and his dedication is obvious every day with his 365. photography is a passion for zack and it's refreshing to see his photos doing the talking for him.

    speaking of impressive human being, he hasn't told me to shut up while i'm whining until the wee hours of the morning. that's nice too =]"

    7th November, 2009

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    .Brooke Henshall says:

    "My New Favourite Flickr member :D
    Love love love looking at your pictures,
    The way you use light, props and gorgeous locations.
    And there always full of emotion.
    I just want to comment and fav all of your pictures,
    look forward to seeing many more

    Brooke :D"

    6th November, 2009

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    holly henry says:

    "alright, so basically every time i look at Zack's photostream theres always something new, and its always stunning. my jaw just drops. the light in his photos, is perfect. like always. im always looking forward to his new photos and he never lets us Zack fans down. oh, and also no matter what he things, he looks like Josh Hutcherson. You gotta believe me, im a girl and we're always right ;) haha i just HAD to put that. never stop taking amazing photos Zack!"

    6th November, 2009

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    Whitney Justesen says:

    "It's about time I wrote one of these for my man, Zack. :) He most definitely deserves it!
    Ok, umm, to put it simply, I love this boy. Besides being the most romantic, sweetest guy I have probably ever met, Zack is absolutely bursting with talent. The way he uses the light in his pictures, and how it interacts with darkness absolutely blows my mind every time. He is incredible, and will definitely go far in the photographic world.
    If you have not added him as a contact, you are pretty much the most ridiculously stupid person alive, because Zack is the greatest contact a person could ever have. True story.
    Aaanyways, my friend and fiance Zack is incredible, and that's all there is to say. Be nice to him please. :) Because...if you aren't, I may have to track you down and do some damage.
    Just saying..."

    24th September, 2009

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    Elizabeth•Grace says:

    "Okay so I don't usually write Testimonials But Zak Your sweet, like awesome beyond words, your stream is really inspiring me and helping me feel like I can get out of this slump I'm in with ideas. So thank you for your unintentional help and PLEASE.... keep up the good work :)"

    14th September, 2009

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    Whitney Ellen Photography says:

    "Zack's photostream is one of my most favorite Flickr addictions. I look forward to his newest 365 portrait everyday. He has the greatest ideas and, of course, lighting. Zack can out-strobe anyone on Flickr, as far as I'm concerned!!"

    24th August, 2009

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    Miss.Rachel says:

    "Zach's images are very colorful and powerful...even if he uses on single color *coughredcough*. His lighting and shadows create visual works that would blow anyone away! Perfect! :)"

    21st August, 2009

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    zyork ( busy ) says:

    "My fellow project365 strobist. His works are awesome! Most of his works involved digital, fantasy, and science fiction... which I honestly have no idea how he did that. I am amazed by his talent! Keep up the good work =)"

    21st July, 2009

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    patriiick says:

    "Zack you are the man! I can never get tired of your props and random ideas. Always lookin' forward to your daily postings. Thanks for everything my friend!"

    13th July, 2009

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    KevinChooi says:

    "Zack's brilliant use of colors and props, sets him apart from the norm, making his stream a joy to follow each day. Great job and keep them coming, Zack!"

    1st July, 2009

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    SeanTucker says:

    "Zack Ahern.. I don't know this guy very well. But, from what I know he's very chill, relaxed. He's always willing to share what information he has about photography, and is always taking time out of his day to comment our photo streams. Zack Ahern, is pretty cool. Keep up the good work man, your good at what you do."

    21st June, 2009

Name:
Zack Ahern
Joined:
April 2009
Currently:
Oklahoma, United States
I am:
Male and Single
Occupation:
City Photographer