Cali Lowdermilk | Commercial Photographer

ON TO SOMETHING DIFFERENT...

2011-11-12T12:57:00.000-08:00

It's been a good run with http://photobycali.blogspot.com but it's time for a change!

Follow my continued ramblings on my brand spankin' new tumblr page.

http://calilowdermilk.tumblr.com/

Say you'll be there?

THE BEST NEW YORK CITY WEEKEND

2011-11-04T19:44:00.001-07:00

just happened a week ago. Look what some of you missed!

I was most opportune to be in town for the annual PDN PhotoPlus Expo and ShootNYC Student Forum. I had the best time seeing currently enrolled RCC students as well as some of my fellow alumni who made the trip up for the event.

Temptation was in the air with new product announcements and tons of booths displaying them in all their wonder.

The best of all the photo-geek quirks however, was the inspiring lectures by various renown professionals who I greatly admire for their creativity and business success.

The ShootNYC Forum introduced 4 of the biggest names who discussed the beginnings of their careers and inspired all of us who are just getting started.

Mr. Chase Jarvis started out the evening speaking not only about his big break and beginning, but telling us how to pursue career opportunities along his ranks. He described that attitude makes a greater impact than your portfolio, and that there are thousands of different paths to success in this industry.

As those who follow him know, Chase is a social media king when it comes to promoting his business and the way he describes it's effect is "like the aperture scale; twice as much exposure with one click." Give people something to "follow" or "like".

The next motivational voice was the incredible dance photographer, Lois Greenfield. Starting out with "you don't have to be tall to be a photographer", Lois sold me with her lecture on the importance of relationships and passion. She stressed that people are hired, not portfolios, and that the time is now to create relationships and shoot what you desire. She inspired me not to worry about rejection, but to keep my overhead low and stay hungry in my business building.

My mentor, Sarah Silver, also shared a lecture at the event. One of the memorable points Sarah made (that I see active in her business everyday) is that part of being frustrated is learning how to be a problem solver. Sarah also informed the audience of dreamers to make friends with artists on their level, like beginning makeup artists, hairstylists, etc. because she is working with the people that have grown with her along the way.

Henry Leutwyler, amazing portrait photographer, encouraged us to look in the streets for inspiration, and to always shoot personal work. Henry represents a seasoned professional who still contains so much passion for the light and the people that he invites in front of his lens.

He wrapped up the night with this appropriate Michael Jackson inspired slide....

HEY JUDE

2011-09-23T09:13:00.001-07:00

Introducing the most handsome New Yorker, the studio dog, Jude.

ONE DECADE LATER

2011-09-12T10:10:00.001-07:00

I could not believe it had been 10 years yesterday since one of the most tragic events of my generation.

No I wasn't there, no I wasn't even a decade old, no I didn't know anyone who was directly affected by it; but I remember the day like it was yesterday and I remember seeing the two massive towers just a few months before they fell.

10 years later, here I am in the city again reminded of the past by the huge rip in the skyline.

The moment I stepped onto ground zero, emotion smacked me right in the face, and the city streets had never seemed so silent.

God bless, comfort, and protect the families and heroes affected by that Tuesday.

THE STUDIOUS STUDIO

2011-09-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

OKAY, SO THE GLORIOUS INTERNSHIP #3 HAS FINALLY COMMENCED.

Currently, I am one of three interns. From all over, we young folks are here for the same dream... to work and learn under one of the best photographers in the industry.

From the energy, to the organization, to the physical space itself... this studio is awesome.

I am definitely looking forward to all I have to learn and experience here with these people.

IF I CAN MAKE IT HERE, I'LL MAKE IT ANYWHERE.

2011-09-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

NEW YORK, NEW YORK.

Hallelujah, I've finally made it! I am a resident of big fat New York City.

The past few days have been pretty surreal walking outside to a huge playground of culture, food, art, and craziness. The only con so far would absolutely be the lack of fresh brewed sweet tea in restaurants. What are these people thinking!?

Anyway, the pros outweigh that con tremendously.

I have met my roomate and fellow intern, Kendall (with me in the instagram below), who I will be spending 4 months with. It's been refreshing getting to know her Texan self and hear about her accomplishments with fashion designer, Tory Burch, who's corporation she will be working for this fall. Go Kendall!

Walking everywhere is pretty lovely too. I have been doing as much local exploring as possible before my time will happily be consumed at Sarah Silver's studio next week. (I keep passing Sephora stores anxious for the beauty shoots.... it won't be long.... )

Thanks again to you guys for being amazing and following me through this madness. <3

VICTORIA LUTHER - MODEL TESTING

2011-08-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

I've been looking forward to working with Miss Victoria for quite some now, and finally had the opportunity to as she delves into the professional modeling industry.

It was a blessing creating these striking images and exploring her potential.

Good luck on this pursuit, V!

LAST SOUTHERN WEEKEND

2011-08-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

A time of vagabondage, reflection, and patience.

Due to Ms. Irene-the-hurricane, my flight to New York has been put off for a couple of days.

Though I was bummed to have to delay the start of this new life chapter, I am comforted that God is in control and I have had a few more days to stretch out my goodbyes and final luggage zipping.

Several significant goodbyes took place at Liberty University this weekend where I also had the privilege to see a few favorite musicians.

The entire show was fantastic, but Mutemath's performance was outstanding!

If I could do to eyes what they do to ears, I'd be set.

These gentlemen had more energy + humility than any group of boys I've ever witnessed on a stage. (See fun instagrams below)

Definitely a fine event to send me off!

The weekend ended with two church services; one in Virginia and another back home in North Carolina.

In different states, from different speakers, with different scriptural references, the same theme of selflessness recurred.

One service discussed the kingdom of ourselves vs. the kingdom of God, how they both are building, but only one survives the inevitable storms (Matthew 7: 21-27).

The other explained the Old Testament story of the city of Babel (Genesis 11: 1-9) and how building our own "cities", only to make a name for OURSELVES is destructive and against the will of God.

I randomly insert this record of my church services for accountability and reminder as I venture to the "concrete jungle where dreams are made of".

My ambition is not to exalt 'Cali L.- Photographer', but to exalt the one true God who blessed me with this opportunity and will surely use His gifts to glorify His kingdom, not mine.

Thanks for all of the prayers and constant encouragement from you, the eyes that my business and art could not thrive without.

LAURA STRAUSBAUGH - HEADSHOTS

2011-08-13T21:27:00.000-07:00

I recently had the opportunity to photograph my lovely friend Laura's headshots in Elon, NC.

Obviously, this was a breezy shoot considering the subject's absolute gorgeousness and comfort in front of the camera.

Laura is a studying at Appalachian State University and pursuing a career in acting.

Wishing her all the best after she introduces this face to agencies and creatives worldwide!

STILL UNCONDITIONALLY IN LOVE...

2011-08-06T18:46:00.000-07:00

WITH INSTAGRAM.

(and this model incase anyone hasn't noticed...)

WWW.CALILOWDERMILK.COM

2011-07-31T23:11:00.000-07:00

My official website has finally launched!

GO!

INSTAGRAM!

2011-07-30T22:04:00.000-07:00

...Fast beautiful sharing for your iphone

I have had the popular instagram app for less than a week now and am already obsessed.

I've decided that it's a good way to snap something quick without the dangers often involved in lugging around my professional tool on a daily basis. Plus, the cute vintage-y filters make a regular mobile upload pretty easy on the eyes.

My favorite filter? Earlybird. So fun, right!?

Follow me, all you instagram-ers!

Haven't caught the bug yet? Download the free app now!

INTERNSHIP #3

2011-07-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

I am beyond excited and thankful for the opportunity that soon awaits me.

Through many months of prayer, applications, phone calls, and emails.... photographer Sarah Silver has found a place for me in her New York studio as a fall intern.

With a client list including Sephora, L'Oreal, Target, Vogue, Petronio Dance Company, and more... I am sure to learn a thing or two in my 4 months of work. I will do my best to keep you all updated throughout the experience starting in September!

The woman is outstanding. See for yourself.

Photos courtesy www.sarahsilver.com and PDN magazine

Follow Sarah on twitter!

WE DID IT!

2011-07-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

The last two years have sincerely been the best two years of my life.

I never expected to love college this much, but I sure did... A LOT.

I have been tossed around in every learning environment from shooting gray cards and Kiki the mannequin one year to working on high-production sets the next.

Nothing about it was easy, but this program gave me more potential than I ever believed I had, and thinking back on all the things I didn't know is so humbling.

As I am sure the rest of the class of 2011 would back me up, we have been blessed with the most amazing instructors. The people we study under every day are incredible photographers themselves, with contagious personalities and huge hearts for teaching and sharing.

To all of you, thank you!

We students would be no where without your instruction, dedication, and inspiration.

To my friends and fellow photo alumni, knowing you all has transformed my life and the way I see. I cannot believe how ridiculously talented each of you go-getters are. I am excited and confident in awaiting what the future holds for all of you! Our bond does not end here.

What a celebration!

LIKE?

2011-07-20T23:01:00.000-07:00

I recently created a facebook fan page for my photography to keep social media followers updated from the convenience of their news-feeds, and hopefully catch some of the right attention. ;)

Please help promote my business and LIKE me right now!

IF YOU WERE IN MY SHOES...

2011-07-19T22:28:00.000-07:00

Back in May, I had my second opportunity to work with Elements Studio for Rack Room Shoes.

This shoot, in Nashville, TN, featured Models Wanted Winners to rock the new back to school styles for the ad campaign running now!

Ranging from ages 6-20, all of the kids did an amazing job presenting enthusiasm, effort, and ultimately... much cuteness for the shoot.

Also, working with Rack Room's creative team again was so inspiring. They brought such fresh, innovative ideas to the table and resulted in something brilliant when they combined their talents with that of Elements Studios.

I am so thankful for another great experience!

Check out my behind the scenes imagery as well as the current Back to School 2011 campaign here.

'ASSOCIATE DEGREE, APPLIED SCIENCE IN PHOTOGRAPHIC TECHNOLOGY'

2011-07-17T06:43:00.000-07:00

One week before I graduate, and my parents scoot this newspaper article across the kitchen table...

I obviously squeal in excitement when I see the career section of our local newspaper bragging on the photography program I have attended for the last two years.

The article features Greensboro commercial photographer, Stacey Haines, describing her career testimony as well as her experience in Randolph's photography program.

"RCC has turned out to be the best thing I ever did;" Haines says.

"Going there actually changed the whole course of my life."

I can certainly relate to Ms. Haines. From classes and assignments to my amazing internship experiences, my life has changed dramatically and my education has proven fit for the industry.

I am thankful for every lesson learned in this program, and I am glad that Randolph is finally getting the kind of recognition and praise it deserves.

Article for News & Record by Karen L. Hornfeck

Read the article yourself here!

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING ISN'T AS EASY AS IT LOOKS...

2011-07-15T00:51:00.000-07:00

This has been one of the most impactful summers of my young life (yet I have been so slack on blogging....)

From preparing my heart and mind for graduation to working my tail off on shooting portfolio, I have not missed a beat when it comes to staying busy (...ah, that explains it).

Along with these tasks is my occasional opportunity to spend time with friends... the people keeping me sane.

This would be referring especially to my dear brother in Christ, Tyler Ezell.

I modeled for Tyler's first year portfolio, on a shoot with sheeted tunnels, smoke bombs, and more... Let's just say that there is never a dull moment with this first year photography student, and I wish I had better ways to exhibit that.

Tyler, thanks for keeping me motivated as a fellow artist and a friend!

Speaking of summer, sip on a watermelon milkshake while they last!

PUTTING YOUR BEST FACE FORWARD

2011-07-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

One of my most recent projects was a beauty shoot for North Carolina based Soror Cosmetics consisting of makeup artist Adrianne Matthews, with skin consultant and sister Ashley Brandt.

It was a ton of fun collaborating with these girls and the friends they brought in as models.

ANOTHER FIRST

2011-05-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

During my Spring semester, I had the coolest experience of producing my first music video with my classmates and great friends, Alyssa Barajas, Cara Emory, and Jessica Gruneisen.

In such a group, I seriously have not felt so much creative enthusiasm in one place.

From planning to producing, we worked extremely hard to pull off something that we all ended up being very excited with.

Now, I must not speak further without giving a shout out to the incredible band we were very opportune to work with, Great Awakening.

Kicking off their tour in June, this is a group of God-fearing dudes with a heart for worship and a talent for making joyful noise.

Please be sure to extend upon just viewing this video, and listen to more of Great Awakening, and download their entire new album, 'Songs in Secret' FREE through Come&Live!

Thanks to every kid, musician, assistant, parent, and prayer that made this production possible...

Explore - Great Awakening

ExciteMint Productions

GOD IS _______ .

2011-05-23T06:22:00.000-07:00

promotional piece for 'God is ____ .' series this summer at Renew - Church for Young Adults.

Come out to Renew at Trinity Worship Center in Burlington, NC.

Delve in to discover the true person of God.

music credit: blackbird blackbird - heartbeat

THIS IS THE LIFE.

2011-05-13T19:38:00.000-07:00

Just a fun shot from my last venture with a good ol' 27 exposure disposable camera.

Randolph Community College - Photography Department

REAL SHOES. REAL PEOPLE. REAL LIFE.

2011-05-11T14:46:00.000-07:00

During the early part of my internship in March, I had the pleasure of assisting and shooting behind the scenes images for Rack Room Shoes, one of Elements Studio's best clients.

Rack Room has a very unique way of selecting relatable talent for their advertisements.

'Models Wanted' is a contest that everyday families and shoe lovers can enter to hopefully be the next seasonal faces of Rack Room.

The lucky faces for Summer 2011 were Clarence, Mandy, Ty, Ava, and Ella.

Working with this family and the Rack Room crew was such a fun and unforgettable experience.

I could definitely get used to shooting happy people on Dallas landscape all day.

Check out the Rack Room Shoes website to do a little shopping and see the ad campaign now running.

Also be sure and check out behind-the-cam for more of my own images! (screenshot featured below)

I do love this crew...

Can't forget the cute shoes!

The men in action; videographer - Clint Barefoot and photographer - Bo Calilung

MY PROVERBS 31

2011-05-07T21:51:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of the beautiful mommas!

Let your mother know she is beautiful today.

color negative film image of, my mother, Teri Lowdermilk - 2010

PUT ON SOME HUMBLE PANTS

2011-05-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

As artists of any sort, musicians, dancers, photographers, etc... it's so easy to see yourself grow and think "Heck yes, I've got it going on." Though confidence is awesome, arrogance is not.

To truly continue to create great works, I think we have to really delve into graciousness and gratefulness. We need to be able to look back, see where we came from, and remember always that we started from nothing. How awesome!

You can go nowhere but up from there.

Today I had the great pleasure to view the first year student's portfolios today at RCC.

Seeing their work was so humbling and inspiring. It took me to the place I was only one year ago, and I feel like so much of myself and my classmates has changed since then.

I can't wait to see how these folks develop as well, because they are already kicking butt.

Here's a little taste.

NOW- FIRST YEARS, RE-READ THIS POST TITLE. ;)

All images are square crops from several different RCC first-year student images

WE'VE GOT CLASS

2011-05-06T14:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my Advertising Photography instructor, James Walters for this fun time lapse and blog post documenting one of the crazy days at RCC earlier in the semester.

James, you rock!

...and so does this class.

COMMERCIAL KIDS 2011

video & photos via. James Walters' blog

NOW IS THE TIME

2011-05-04T08:18:00.000-07:00

...for churches to UNITE!

Connecting churches to make division a part of history.

Come be a part of uniting the churches of Alamance County!

May 15, 2011

7:00 PM

Mebane Arts Center

Flyer Design: Adam Tarwacki

Music Credit: Panic Switch by Silversun Pickups

Video Filming: Cali Lowdermilk and Megan Leamey

Video Editing: Cali Lowdermilk

MOONLIGHT DELIGHT

2011-04-26T11:38:00.001-07:00

A spooky moonlit shot from the winter months.

"Fog" created with light writing.

THE LIVIN' IS EASY

2011-04-18T19:46:00.000-07:00

I managed to weasel my way out of town and onto Pawley's island for a couple of laid back days with jubilant friends.

Here's a little handful of simple shots from my weekend of leisure.

Yours truly at peace.

Mmmm. Time to go back, yes?

SMOKE ON THE WATER

2011-03-31T19:15:00.000-07:00

Fog on the water really brings out an emotion from nature.

Here is just another view of Lake Grapevine near Dallas, TX.

TEXAN WATER

2011-03-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Just another creative tid-bit of my weekend in Dallas, TX. Escape.

ISN'T SHE LOVELY?

2011-03-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful that my current internship employer, Elements Studio, brought me along for a job in Dallas, TX this weekend.

This image is just one, or shall I say two, of those instances where the model in line was in the right place, at the right time, in the right light.

The naturally beautiful and charismatic Ella. ♥

PORTFOLIO PONDERING

2011-03-23T13:41:00.000-07:00

I have been collecting inspirational work from several sources for a while now, and I have been filtering through all of the images again and again (....and again) trying to get my mind active in constructing ideas for my portfolio.

In about 4 months, 15 photographs will be born and turned in for my final portfolio piece.

I have learned a lot about light and seeing in the past year and a half, and I am eager to display that.

This in mind, the 4 major components I want my portfolio to include are

quirky expressions, movement, stunning atmosphere, and (of course) light. Really really nice light.

Here is what motivates me!

All images collected from various photographers.

I take no credit for photographing any of the above images.

STRAIGHT G

2011-03-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

More photoshop practice... yet again!

Here, I took an image of Clint Barefoot, photographic capture by Ryan Carlson, and merged it with my Gatorade product shot from this semester to create a mimic Gatorade advertisement.

Both Clint and Ryan work with me at Elements-Studio where I am currently interning.

Thanks to both of you for your contributions to this image!

Model shot: Ryan Carlson

Gatorade shot: Cali Lowdermilk

Design and Editing: Cali Lowdermilk

IT'S RAINING MEN

2011-03-17T08:35:00.000-07:00

My awesome friend and fellow photographer, Tyler Mangus, was the most cooperative model and stood out in the rain for some GQ-esque photo attempts.

I really like expressing particular attitudes and personalities through my images when I work with people.

I am hoping to do a lot more with male models for the challenge different sense of beauty.

Here are some fun shots we came up with and I played around with the post-processing for the effect of darkroom developing techniques.

Thanks Tyler for rocking your red tie and withstanding the storm!

HELLO GORGEOUS

2011-03-16T08:06:00.000-07:00

I could not believe it when fellow photographer and commercial student, Jordan Delp, told me she had never been photographed in her nearly 2 years at Randolph.

I of course jumped at the opportunity to be the photographer of her first shoot.

It was really a joy to spend my final day of class lighting her lovely face.

PUT SOME COLORS ON.

2011-03-10T18:37:00.000-08:00

For a joint-project with Randolph's graphic design students, we were assigned to create an idea and form an entire advertising campaign for it.

This is something that took tons of effort, time, and creative energy.

Thanks to the talent and collaborative efforts from fellow photographer Kelli York, and designer Regan Smith!

It was a lot of fun creating props and making such a unique concept possible:

Heel Deep in Color

Colorful shoes for a dull world.

ONE HAS WON

2011-02-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

So I realized that I evidently do work better under pressure.

Yet again in our advertising class, we had to crank out several photos within a small time frame (ya know, 5 minutes...literally...) using ONE light, ONE fill card, ONE background, and ONE model.

This time it had to include images from the outdoors and indoors.

Thanks to my good looking classmates, Cassie Kiser and Daniel Williams for seriously working it!

She's Insanely gorgeous!

And this might just be my favorite photograph I have ever captured. ever.

OOH, SOMEBODY STOP ME!

2011-02-25T21:35:00.000-08:00

My friend and fellow photography student, Katherine Clark, asked me to photograph her for some head shots to be used on her website, blog, etc. She wanted to approach this in two totally different ways.

Katherine styled this cute mask to help ease her discomfort in being in front of the camera.

I'm pretty sure it must have done the job.

For a more generic head shot, we came up with a little something like this.

"We all wear masks... metaphorically speaking" - Dr. Arthur Neuman; The Mask

PAGE'S PLACE

2011-02-25T20:26:00.001-08:00

For my multimedia class, we were sent on assignment to document "regulars" in their spontaneous community.

No better place than my Aunt Page's salon came to mind.

Every Friday, the same people come in to see Page and each other.

I was fortunate enough to hear some of their stories and bask in their charisma.

Page's Place from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

Thanks to my fabulous assignment partner; Cara Emory.

PEEK

2011-02-22T22:03:00.000-08:00

...SNEAK PEEK that is.

Just an interesting crop from a fun shoot - to be posted soon!

IS IT IN YOU?

2011-02-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

In my Advertising Photography class, we had to select a bottled beverage advertisement to mimick.

The image I chose had very particular lighting and styling, so I made my best effort to emulate that.

So here it is, Gatorade.

PEACOCK

2011-02-16T07:49:00.000-08:00

My most recent assignment was to shoot jewelry.

Remembering these fancy feather earrings, I decided to go all out on the peacock theme.

With the aid of a long neck, gold glow, and surrounding feathers, I felt the earrings were very well accentuated.

So much thanks to my dear friend Katie Faucette for being such an awesome model!

EXPLORE. EXCITE.

2011-02-12T21:52:00.000-08:00

Here's a little teaser of the music video I produced this weekend with my marvelous crew, Alyssa Barajas, Cara Emory, and Jessica Gruneisen; also known as ExciteMINT Productions.

So much special thanks to Scott Mackenzie, Tyler Mangus, and Austin Rich for assisting.

Thanks to each and every member of the cast.

Of course, thanks also to our incredible starring band - Great Awakening!

Their latest album will be released in April along with their new video.

We are really excited about getting this out there.

We were blessed with the greatest collaboration!

CAN'T LIVE, CAN'T BREATHE WITH NO AIR.

2011-02-09T08:39:00.000-08:00

My most recent assignment was to shoot air. Literally, air.

We could personify it, define it, or show it's critical part in our world.

I chose to show our refreshing desperation for it.

Many thanks to my model, Megan Leamey, who helped get this image out of my head and into the light.

ONE LIGHT

2011-02-07T21:30:00.000-08:00

I'm confident and thrilled to say that this was one of 5 shots of the beautiful Cara Emory that I set up for and shot in studio in less than 10 minutes.

One of our classes is constantly demanding speedy processes, which is not always the easiest thing for us photogs.

This assignment literally required us to use only ONE LIGHT, one modifier, one assistant, and 10 minutes. Other than that, we could shoot whatever we wanted.

Friend + Flare. What more could you ask for?

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL

2011-02-05T20:37:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Austin Rich for being such a good sport in my impromptu photo shoot and "lighting practice".

I had fun shooting Austin and playing around afterwards with my post processing.

THE COLOR HOLLI

2011-02-02T21:19:00.000-08:00

Against a plain, dull, colorless wall, I could not think of a better contrast than the skin and essence of fellow photo student, Holli Hartman.

Holli has some of the most stunning and vibrant tattoos I have ever seen, and it was a great opportunity to show them off for some images today. Holli is so lovely to photograph and fun to work with.

"I'M ALIVE. WHEN I PLAY, I MAKE PEOPLE GET UP."

2011-01-29T18:37:00.000-08:00

Introducing Mr. Bill Walsh: a homeless painter, trumpet player, and Christ fearing man.

I had the pleasure of spending my day with Mr. Walsh in efforts to produce a short documentary on a day in his life.

SEE?

2011-01-28T23:40:00.000-08:00

For the second time, we were instructed to create a visual resume.

I've enjoyed the assignment since it's such a different way for us visual artists to present our personal backgrounds and capabilities to others.

LET'S SEE HOW FAR WE'VE COME

2011-01-27T18:08:00.000-08:00

It's seriously incredible to think about what God has done with my passion for photography this past year and a half.

It's kind of ridiculous.

I've been thinking about it more than ever... how I came into the photography program thinking I had it all down pat, when I was so far from having any real knowledge of this fantastic art at all.

The f-stops, the lights, the chemicals... the everything. I CAN NOT believe how much I've learned and have now became utterly obsessed with.

Looking back, the experiences I've had so far at Randolph flew past me like a tornado and have produced amazing growth in myself and my brilliant classmates.

I am just so thankful for where God has placed me.

I am happy, I am humbled, and I am going to keep learning the rest of my life.

Almost 18 months later, I now have goals stemming from roots that I forgot all about.

Roots like this layout assignment from my first year...

The use of people, the production of the set, the first moments shooting in studio, the film.

I now realize these are elements of photographs that set my body of work apart and that this is what I want to make a living doing.... forever. :)

Seven Deadly Sins

SUGAR, SUGAR.

2011-01-20T18:32:00.000-08:00

Special thanks to Buy Me Cake in Burlington for such a cute cupcake, complete with an edible snowflake!

This was for my dessert assignment. I wanted to accent the snow flake by having falling powdered sugar, or "snow", as if it just had it's finishing touches after being baked.

Here are some other dessert shots, more in the mood of Spring and Summer. It won't be long...

Canon 5D Mark II - 75-300mm lens at 255mm

STOP MOTION

2011-01-19T18:56:00.000-08:00

Flirting with some stop-motion; just enough to have a little fun with classmates.

Sam vs. Man from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

IT FEELS GOOD BEING USED

2011-01-06T12:51:00.000-08:00

I was informed by Rob Hawthorne today that some of my behind the scenes imagery landed in

Skea's 2011 - 2012 Fall & Winter Collection Catalog. Boy, oh boy!

"THAT'S ICONIC LOOKING"

2011-01-02T01:29:00.001-08:00

Peter Millar - Behind the Scenes from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

The last thing I expected when I got back home to North Carolina was to be right back at another professional shoot.

Thankfully though, God was able to work out some pretty sweet connections while I was out west.

At the Miller Ranch shoot, I was introduced to model, Britt Bradford, who just happened to live 35 minutes away from my home back in NC. Small world, indeed!

Since that shoot, Britt and I have kept in touch and he has offered a lot of relevant advice and encouragement about the industry he has been a part of for about 25 years.

Anyway, long story short... Britt was kind enough to bring me along to the Peter Millar shoot in Cary, NC. I am pleased to have met some brilliant fashion-savvy gentlemen who work for the company as well as the talented Philly-based photographer, Marco Roldan.

A great collaboration of visionary creatives and another great experience to have under my belt.

Connections really are the best resource.

Thanks Britt!

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR

2010-12-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Just For Now from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

SKEA - LUXURY FOR THE SNOW

2010-12-11T01:04:00.000-08:00

Another job with Rob Hawthorne came with my first experience in seeing the real Colorado mountain snow. It was so, and I don't give it enough credit, breathtakingly gorgeous.

We were brought out to Loveland Valley slopes for a ski catalog fashion job for snow sportswear company, Skea.

What a great crew, a great time, and a great day.

THE COWBOY THREADS

2010-12-11T00:47:00.000-08:00

Yet again this week, I had the pleasure of working with Rob Hawthorne for another western wear catalog shoot. Cinch and Cruel Girl were the featured lines of clothing.

After spending a gorgeous day out on the foothills shooting young guys and gals as well as crazy kids, here are some behind the scenes shots.

I CAN TELL THAT WE ARE GONNA BE FRIENDS

2010-12-06T18:31:00.001-08:00

I am waaay too excited about my new (yet quite old) 4x5 Calumet!

Ready to shoot some large format again, baby!

(The viewfinder I looked through for this shot is on the next little darling on my lust list)

DOWNTOWN LAYING IT DOWN

2010-12-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

More new experiences with Mr. Rob Hawthorne at his gorgeous studio today.

It was my first time on a product lay down shoot. It was great working with Rob again, as well as talented stylist, Allie Liebgott.

Very interesting...

LIT UP STREETS MEAN LIT UP FACES

2010-12-05T22:42:00.000-08:00

Here's a little bit of the photojournalist in me coming out to play.

Denver's Christmas Parade of Lights, so lovely!

OUT ON THE RANCH

2010-12-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

Throughout these eight weeks, I have been lucky enough to work with several different photographers. It's been great to have exposure to all the different workflows and processes from shooter to shooter.

Rob Hawthorne, being one of them, brought me out to a ranch in the beautiful Castlerock, CO for a Miller Ranch Western Wear shoot.

It was an incredibly gorgeous (windy, but gorgeous) day and we could not have asked for a more suitable location.

Here's a little taste of yet another one of my new and fortunate experiences!

ALPHA REV LIVE

2010-12-04T14:30:00.000-08:00

Shows were one of the first things that got me into photography, and I haven't shot one in what feels like forever.

It was a great pleasure to see and hear Alpha Rev for the first time, and get my show blood pumping again.

5280 - DECEMBER COVER BY BRYCE BOYER

2010-11-27T17:02:00.001-08:00

During my internship, I've had the greatest opportunities including participating in several editorial shoots. At Cholon restaurant in downtown Denver, my mentor, Bryce Boyer, worked his magic and shot a stunning December cover for 5280 magazine.

After eating at Cholon, I can definitely say that it really is one of 'Denver's Best New Restaurants'.

It's so cool to see an idea from scratch to news stands, go Bryce!

Here are some of my behind the scenes captures

CONCRETE JUNGLE

2010-11-19T09:12:00.000-08:00

This week, I had the greatest pleasure of accompanying Bryce Boyer on a shoot in New York.

At Exclusive Resorts on Park Avenue, Bryce was capturing concierge portraits.

I was able to assist and do a little styling too, it was hard work but I had a blast.

Here are a few behind the scenes shots, as well as some good ol' tourist-aware details I was able to capture.

We took a late stroll around Central Park, and I couldn't resist requesting an impromptu light writing from

the photographer, Bryce, his assistant, Wes, and the client, Justin.

Quite hysterical if I may say so myself.

The Amusing Light Writing Process - Central Park, NY from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

IN THE SEASON OF THANKSGIVING

2010-11-13T21:55:00.000-08:00

After a refreshing phone conversation with my Grandmother, I realized I have a whole lot to be thankful for.

Granny said "Cali, you must really be called to do this." What an obvious blunt statement that I had never really entertained in my mind before. A calling.

She then proceeded with "Otherwise, none of this would have worked out."

Why the heck I had not put all these pieces together, I don't know.

I'm just doing what I love and learning what I can, not realizing all the steps I've taken, and all the support that's been behind me to keep my feet moving.

Here I am, small town North Carolina girl, in the big city of Denver, getting ready to go on a shoot in New York.

A whole lot of wonderful that could easily be ended if God flipped a switch.

Thank you God for making and molding me into a special set of eyes.

Thank you Granny for helping me realize the simplest and most thrilling of epiphanies.

Happy Thanksgiving Season.

LIVE EXTRAORDINARILY, LEAD CREATIVELY, LOVE EXTRAVAGANTLY.

2010-11-13T21:39:00.001-08:00

The above words are the new mission statement for Youth Quake Student Ministries.

I have been a part of Youth Quake at Trinity Worship Center for almost 10 years now, and it's a body of Christ that is SO dear to my heart.

Being in college and away on internship, I haven't been in fellowship with these guys near as much as I would love to be.

Thankfully though, God has shown His goodness and found a way to continue using me.

Youth pastor, Brad Chandler, contacted me in regards to his new creative vision for the church and we are both really excited about it!

No matter how far I may be, pictures can travel anywhere.

Here was the first project of this fresh collaboration.

Soon, YQ will be having morning bible studies at Starbucks and the creative team needed a promotional image.

Not much better than coffee + the good word.

ON THE TIPS OF MY TOES

2010-10-28T12:24:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure to assist and cover behind the scenes for a shoot with two fine dancers from the Colorado ballet.

Thank you, Mark Stevens, for welcoming me into your studio to witness such an awesome set of subjects.

I was so excited to be a part of this shoot! It really inspired me to take the love I already have for dance, and do some projects of my own in the near future that incorporate that.

LOVE ME, LOVE ME, SAY THAT YOU LOVE ME.

2010-10-24T22:43:00.000-07:00

Finally, my first shoot since I've been on internship in Denver.

Due to my mentor, Bryce, going out of town for work, I decided it would be wise to make myself useful elsewhere. I had the great pleasure of working with Denver editorial photographer, Don Cudney as well as hairstylists from Antoine de Chez Hair Salon.

This is just a teaser for an upcoming editorial spread in the December issue of Mile High Sports Magazine. More photos will be shared post-publication.

LEARNING FROM THE INDUSTRY'S FINEST

2010-10-24T22:20:00.000-07:00

With a little history with video in the past, Bryce is very focused on making sure the technical stuff comes out strong in the filming process. Here's a new rig he's set up and welded together for the brand new Canon 60 D. I'm looking forward to see what beautiful productions come out of just this.

GOOD TO MEET YOU, COLORADO.

2010-10-15T18:20:00.000-07:00

Here are my first exposures of the city since I've been in the beautiful Denver!

SHOOTING FOR A CAUSE

2010-10-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

This week, my mentor, Bryce Boyer, had me shoot a non-profit project that was given to him.

This project included shooting several catalog style images of products on white so that the graphic designer for the manufacturer could do with the images what they pleased.

Here is a self-contained website that Bryce sent to the designer for viewing purposes.

I thought I would share the work with you all as well.

About the manufacturer: Urban World Trader provides consumers with an opportunity to connect with African women and children in the less fortunate countries. These people have taken their resources, natural and recycled, to produce these unique products than can be sold to us so we can help them.

Canon 1Ds Mark III

www.urbanworldtrader.com

INTERNSHIP IN DENVER

2010-10-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

Today was the first official day of my internship out in Denver, Colorado with photographer Bryce Boyer. I have already been so inspired by Bryce's work and the learning process has already begun in only several hours of being in his studio.

I am really looking forward to see how things progress in the next 2 months that I am under his wing. Make sure you check him out!

TOOK A LITTLE TIME TO MAKE IT A LITTLE BETTER

2010-10-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

For my final commercial assignment this semester, we had to visually present 4 impacting things we learned over the semester. Over a powerpoint, or display board, I chose to take a more creative approach and record a video that also included some stills and stop-motion. Hope you all enjoy, and learn a few little lessons as well. Thanks to RCC and all my classmates for teaching me. Thanks to you for watching.

What I've Learned from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

MORGAN + SCOTT

2010-10-10T16:36:00.001-07:00

Engaged couple, Morgan Horner and Scott Ingalls, gave me a loose rein with my creativity for their engagement portraits.

This, and their photogenic display of affection, made this one of my favorite portrait sessions.

Thanks to Morgan and Scott for being so genuinely cute and easy to work with!

CLASS OF 2011 FT. ERIN NICHOLS

2010-10-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

The uber happy Miss Nichols made this session so easy with her awesome smile and precious dimples!

Congratulations on being a senior, girl. Have a great year.

INTO THE WOODS

2010-10-07T13:46:00.000-07:00

I needed to redo my fashion in a tree shoot, and since I drug Miss Lacee Musgrove all the way out in the woods for that purpose, we went ahead and shot some more for fun.

Lacee couldn't have been more perfect for the whimsical vintagey look.

Below is my final submission.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

SPREAD YOUR LOVE AND FLY

2010-10-05T18:42:00.000-07:00

Trying to take make up advertising to the next level, I decided to take advantage of my resources.

I shot this image (yes, one image... no compositing) of the beautiful Rachel Godley and her wonderful Sun Conure, Lupe, to advertise the eyeshadow shown.

I couldn't have asked for better sports. Thanks so much to you two for letting this vision finally live.

Canon 5D Mark II- Canon 75-300mm f/5.6

SMOOCH

2010-10-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

For a self promo, I chose to advertise lip color.

I think I achieved the high-key and high-fashion look I was going for.

Thanks to my stunning classmate, Cara Emory, for letting me doll her up and for modeling again in front of the fun large format.

Sinar F1 Large Format Camera - 210mm Lens - Phase 1 Digital Back

I'M ON A BOAT... 3 TIMES.

2010-10-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

This is my final submission for our major composite project for our digital imaging class.

We were given particular people, themes, and objects to include in our image and there had to be at least 2 different pictures photoshopped together.

I had a flamboyant person, vest, sailboat, decorative wallpaper, and retro theme to work with.

Keeping it simple and using 5 different images, this is what I came up with.

M-M-MY TELEPHONE

2010-10-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

As we do every Monday in our product illustration class, we were given an assignment with only a couple of hours to shoot, edit, and submit. This week's task was to shoot our personal cellphones using specific lighting techniques we went over in class. Ta-da!

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 75-300mm f/5.6

CLASS OF 2011 FT. ERICA LONGAMORE

2010-10-02T15:11:00.000-07:00

Erica came to me with a simple request: portraits that were unlike anyone else's that showed what she loved to do. Reading, drawing, and music have her heart and I think we made that obvious in these fun, unique images. What a beauty she is!

IS IT WORTH IT? LET ME WORK IT.

2010-10-01T23:51:00.000-07:00

For fun and practice with makeup, lighting, and post-processing... my classmate Cara Emory posed so beautifully for me in the studio. It was a really fast shoot but I think we managed to get a few sweet results.

We both seem to be interested in some of the same things when it comes to beauty and fashion photography, so it was a lot of fun collaborating. I can't wait for more of it in the near future.

Sinar F1 Large Format Camera - 210mm Lens - Phase 1 Digital Back

I BELIEVE IN ME

2010-09-30T17:11:00.000-07:00

This is a video that really means a lot to me.

My commercial classmates and I were given an assignment to somehow visually illustrate an important element of our past that has constructed who we now are.

I chose to portray my love for dance and the effect it has had on my confidence and growing up.

Through dance I have become more at peace with my body and myself. I now want to put my entirety in all that I do, and nothing less.

This video metaphorically documents my discovery of such a feeling and I hope so much that this becomes visible when you play it for yourselves.

I've chosen to call this 'Kinesthetic Awareness'. The word was one of our dance vocabulary words which basically means to be conscious of how your body takes up time and space.

I apply this awareness not only to the time and space I take up on stage, but where I am in the world.

Kinesthetic Awareness from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

Special thanks to

Alexandra Carter - Your killer way of moving on stage is what drew my attention towards you. Thanks for letting me drag you all the way to the studio after hardly knowing you and for giving this all you had.

You absolutely couldn't have been better.

Angela Greene - This video would not be possible without the passion for dance you planted inside me. You fed me creative persistence I didn't even realize I had a hunger for.

Amber Starr Peeden - For intriguing me to this wonderful art and for being so in love with something that you made others fall in love too.

Whoa, long post. Thanks for taking time to read it.

I AM THE EGG MAN

2010-09-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

This assignment was all about shooting eggs.

The only restraints we had were to shoot for a square crop and to make sure an entire dozen eggs were included.

The rest was up to us. I ended up having the only image including a model, and it wouldn't have had the same effect without him. Thanks to first year student - Walker Anderson for helping me bring the idea to life.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 17-40mm f/4L

TWEETING, OR SOMETHING.

2010-09-27T06:54:00.001-07:00

We actually were assigned to create twitter accounts last week.

Here is the photograph I designed for the particular use of my twitter page background.

Follow me and we'll tweet... or whatever it is we do on this new revolutionary social network business.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 17-40mm f/4L

KELLY + PRESTON SITTING IN A TREE

2010-09-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

This is a vision I've had in mind for a really long time, and I finally executed it.

It's an editorial-style shoot featuring vintage fashion, all shot in a tree.

My incredible models, Kelly Limon and Preston Hill, were willing to sit on branches about 20 feet off the ground. They kicked butt!

Due to some technical issues, I am having to re-do this but I am taking it as an opportunity to further improve on my original vision, and produce some really sweet images all within the same theme!

Look out for that in the coming weeks. :)

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 24mm Tilt Shift

URBAN LANDSCAPE

2010-09-22T12:52:00.000-07:00

A 360 degree panoramic shot of a cool back street in downtown Asheboro.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

THE CAPTIVATING IN CAPTIVITY

2010-09-22T10:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday afternoon, some new first-years, Kat Adams, Eric Waters, and Walker Anderson took me along for a short trip to the NC zoo for some down-time and shooting. Here are some sweet moments and elements I found along the way.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

BEST FOOD IN TOWN

2010-09-21T19:58:00.000-07:00

When not behind the camera, I can usually be found behind the counter at Blue Ribbon Diner in Burlington, NC.

As an employee there for the past two and a half years, I have become very familiar with the menu items and how they are most often presented.

For this assignment, I chose to show a variety of my favorite items, while giving the viewer the temptation to pull up a seat at the table and take a bite.

For more on the diner and it's other delicious options, please visit their website!

Now, prepare to drool.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 17-40mm f/4L - Canon 50mm f/1.4

YOU'RE MOVING AT THE SPEED OF LIGHT

2010-09-19T21:06:00.000-07:00

Here is some footage shot at The Forever Endeavor farewell show back in August.

TFE is a group of wonderfully and uniquely talented boys, brothers Luke and Ben Thompson, and my very good friend Matthew Morrisey.

They have been a part of my life for a good two years now, so them breaking up was a real bum out for myself and the Burlington music scene.

Out with a bang they went, though.

Here's proof.

Farewell Forever Endeavor from Cali Lowdermilk on Vimeo.

OH SO PANORAMIC

2010-09-15T10:32:00.001-07:00

Here's my first panoramic ever shot last week in downtown Greensboro!

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

ABC, EASY AS 1,2,3

2010-09-13T18:53:00.001-07:00

The commercial kids all went out on a field trip to search for shapes that looked like each letter of the alphabet.

I chose to display all my letters in a similar way to how I learned all the letters on a chalkboard as a kid.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 17-40mm f/4L

LUMEN PRINTING

2010-09-13T14:44:00.000-07:00

Today in our product illustration class, we split up into groups and shot some visual how-to instructions using 5-10 different pictures.

Since the biocommunication students were outside lumen printing, I decided to learn it for myself as well as teach all of you.

Perfect Opportunity! Be on the lookout for my first attempt, it will be posted soon.

Now, you try it!

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

OH, GREENSBORO.

2010-09-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

Just a pretty little bit of scenery while out shooting an assignment downtown.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

LAPTOP LIFESTYLE

2010-09-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

This was our first assignment to include more than one image.

The purpose of this shoot was to use 5-10 various pictures to illustrate a laptop owning lifestyle. Each shot needed to sell the product, look natural and spontaneous, and stand out among all the others around it.

Thanks to the fantastic Griffin family for opening up their beautiful home to me and my gear, and being such great models!

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4 - Canon 17-40mm f/4 L

BRING ME FLOWERS

2010-09-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

The coolest flowers from the coolest boy.

+ a little tilting and shifting. ;)

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 24mm Tilt Shift

US & THEM

2010-09-02T12:19:00.000-07:00

Our client assignment this week challenged students to illustrate a book cover.

The book 'Us & Them' was all about intolerance and indifference, issues that mean a lot to my instructor, Chuck Egerton.

Here is how I personally chose to portray this situation, using the classic opposites: black and white.

The faces you see are people who impacted the civil rights movement. They are activists, protestors, leaders, and artists who contributed to the documentary of our American history.

All people who I believe deserve some recognition for their developmental roles in forming the diverse country I live in today.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

NINJAS, AND LEAVES, AND HAIRDRYERS! OH MY!

2010-09-02T06:16:00.000-07:00

The commercial students are assigned six "self promos" throughout the first eight weeks.

These are assignments that we have complete control over. From the idea to the execution, everything is up to us and our creative interests.

For my first two projects, I chose to do advertisement shots.

My dear coworker and beautiful friend, Jessica Way, came out to the school's studio for me to model this sweet eco-friendly hairdryer! (Thanks to my hairstylist and Aunt, Page Griffin, for supplying the prop) Jessica had the perfect etherial look I was going for and I could not be more happy with the way this turned out.

& I certainly cannot forget to thank my good friend and fellow photographer, Sam Baucom

for his assistance and leaf throwing skills! Here's the set-up.

And here is where it gets interesting...

I have always considered automotive photography to be way out of my element, so the first time I ever made an attempt was for this project.

Thai Duy, another coworker and friend so generously allowed me to use his smokin' hot Kawasaki Ninja to shoot at sunset in downtown Greensboro. Even after lugging along studio lights to use, I thought the ambient light that evening was more suitable. Heck, it was amazing!

I had no idea that I would have so much fun shooting a bike, Thanks Thai.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4

BABY, I SWEAR IT'S DEJA VU!

2010-08-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

All within a few hours, my classmate, Alyssa Barajas and I teamed up for the purpose of mimicking a cute sandal advertisement.

Concentrating on lighting and props, and scrutinizing every inch of space, I feel we created an image that is very similar to the original.

Special thanks to Miss Alyssa for your shoes, patience, and finally your attention to detail that is as particular is mine.

Here's our simple set up and the original tear-sheet.

Canon 5D Mark II - Canon 50mm f/1.4