One day this Summer, I hear a ding from my computer, I have a message. I get to my computer and read a message that made me so very happy. Ryan Necci and The Buffalo Gospel have been signed by BMG and they need new promos. In two weeks.
Well, story of my life, isn't it? "Now" is my middle name.
I had photographed the uber talented Haley Rydell about a decade ago, and she graciously recommended my photography to BMG. I had very good connections at the label from previous work I did with them, and knew this would be an amazing, fun shoot I couldn't turn down. And seeing Haley again would be wonderful.
So, armed with all the good intentions I had, I set out to find the perfect location for a day shoot. And I knew exactly what and where. I headed out to Blake Nelson Arena in Longmont, where my dear friend Tammy was tending to her dogs, horses, parents, husband, and whatever critter needed her help that day, including me, and I was received, as always, with open arms and a hug. I have photographed the NTR -National Team Roping- at her arena before, and we have been friends for a long time, maybe even a couple of lifetimes before this one. "Can I use your ranch for a day?" I asked, and without hesitation she replied "Have at it". I mean, she didn't even question what I needed, she just made the whole place available. While taking some test shots, she said "oh, I know what you'd like, follow me", and she jumps on her ATV, dog on board, and she takes off, her long blond hair a sight to see, windswept, carefree on a Colorado dusty road. And she was right, she lead me to a couple of barns where the light was magnificent and we would not be disturbed. I was excited for all the possibilities.
After phone production meetings, introductions, mood boards, and more phone calls, the band had a stop in Colorado on their tour and I met them at the ranch. It was one of those HOT Colorado days, and it would get even hotter as the day progressed, so I wanted to run down the logistics as fast as I could, to keep everyone from looking exhausted and spent by the heat by the time we got our promos. I showed them my ideas, and everyone was on board. Yes!
It felt amazing to be in the creative seat again, driven by the knowledge that presenting artists in their best light is my way of feeling on Purpose.
During the shoot, two white owls flew over our heads. It was such a magical moment for all of us and I keep that feeling close to my heart.
Thank you, Ryan, Haley, Andrew, Kevin and Nick for making it such a fun shoot. And the team at BMG for being so easy to work with. And my friends, Tammy and Blake, for being so helpful with the location.
Here are some of my favorites from the day, and please give the new single a listen, I am sure you, too, will become a fan.
In Gratitude,
LDG
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