My first bout of 2014 was captured with a heavy heart, and I doubted making the drive up to Bradenton at all. We lost an amazing skater and close friend a few days prior, and I was not really sure if I wanted to be in a room full of people that night. But I realized that Motley Bruze would probably tell me to get off my fat ass and go shoot some derby ! So I did.

Thinking I was not going to take any photos, and maybe just try to enjoy this sport I love so much, I left all the lighting gear at home, and made the drive up to Bradenton.. The open road is good for the soul and thought it would do me some good… Packed the camera and a couple of lenses but hoped to just leave them in the bag…. I lasted about 5 mins as I did not know what to do with myself haha and decided to try and shoot basic, straight up, raw black and whites shots without my usual lighting rig crutch. While the images are not as clean and sharp as I try to capture, they suited the mood I was in… And I was really glad to see these amazing people and athletes that bring such joy to my life.

Its amazing how losing someone close to you can not only destroy you, but kick you in the ass, and remind you that every day is a gift..

You have to go out and live every day like it is your last..

because someday.. it will be.

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