Flickr: johnmerrittphotography

When I began my career as a photographer in Los Angeles, little did I know how much of a passion this would be for me and how it would become the bliss I now can't imagine being without. I have always been a creative person and have dabbled in painting and drawing and other artistic media but nothing has grabbed my heart and soul like photography has. The excitement I feel when I have a new idea for a project is exhilarating and I only wish there were more hours in the day to turn all the visions into reality.

I am originally from London, England and moved to Los Angeles 20 years ago, I first became fascinated with digital photo manipulation, I loved applying image editing techniques to other photographers works in order to create an illusion. I then began to take my own photographs, constantly updating my skills to keep up with current trends and technology, from learning camera aperture settings, shutter speeds to manipulating exposures, composition, lighting and Photoshop manipulation. All so I could become an amazing photographer producing stunning images. Some of my photographas have been iinternationally published, so all of my hard work has paid off.

People speak of finding their "calling" in life. If finding one's "calling" brings an overwhelming sense of joy and satisfaction, then, with photography, I have found mine. Photography has offered me a window through which I can see and express myself and my life and often serves as a catharsis, a sort of self-therapy, with much of my work relating directly or indirectly to experiences in my life. In addition to the reflections of my own life, inspirations come from music, other artwork, nature, dreams and even nightmares. Sometimes ideas just pop into my head and I haven't a clue where they came from. One of the most exciting aspects of this work is that I am not sure where it will take me and I'm simply delighted to let the processes go where they may.

I'd like to do more with fashion and modeling photography and, perhaps, mix it with the digital manipulation. As an artist I am also fascinated with exploring the darker side of life and have begun to delve deeper into my imagination to create works which reflect this.

The advent of the digital age has spawned a new generation of artists. It is truly exciting! With such websites as Myspace, YouTube and Deviant Art, the world and artists have remarkable opportunities for social networking with one another. For those of you who are interested in taking up photography or digital art (or both), I recommend learning all you can about Photoshop or similar digital imaging software - it is invaluable in creating art and re-touching images. Learning how to use your camera effectively and learning the principles of concept, composition and lighting are, of course, necessary for pursuing skill in photography. My own drive to continue learning more and more about my art and my craft is limitless and I look forward to new skills and insights I will acquire each and every day. I love the creative freedom I have found through this and the knowledge that I am restricted only by my imagination."
STUDIO LOCATION: My studio is in Santa Monica, California, USA. We can do the photo shoot indoors or out; at my studio or on location in the Los Angeles area.

PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES: Model portfolios, actor headshots, professional portraits, online dating photographs, wedding photography, fantasy glamour shots, artistic nude photos and family portraits.

SPECIAL EFFECTS: I can "Photoshop" your photos by re-touching the images to airbrush out any flaws, whiten teeth, remove blemishes, brighten eyes, remove wrinkles and even make it look like you lost 10, 20 or 30 pounds! I can also correct color and remove backgrounds or add different backgrounds and art effects in Photoshop. Photographs can be color, black and white, sepia toned or any other hue. I can colorize certain areas of a black and white image for stunning results. Image correction and photo manipulation included in the package price.

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY BENEFITS: you are able to review the images on a laptop or monitor screen seconds after the picture is taken so you can choose your shots and approve them while still at the photoshoot.

Digital photography work can often be turned around on the same day for editorial photography and some commercial projects. For images that require no post-production work, digital photographs can be delivered immediately, before you leave the shoot. For images which require post-production work my turnaround will vary depending on the requirements of the job.