"Don't make excuses, make photos" As told to me on my first assignment for the NY Post when I called and told them the subject of the photo lived in a gated community... I got the shot. - Luis Santana

Photo credit | Wayne Cathel 

I'm Luis Santana, a Tampa based photographer who has been published in publications worldwide since the age of 17. At 18 I became a volunteer firefighter and photographer for Hillsborough County Fire Rescue where I assisted and documented fires, crashes, technical rescues and natural disasters all over the state of Florida. I worked with the fire dept to document the devastation as well as help with the response and rescue by disaster teams. In addition to being a self taught photographer I am trained as a rescue diver, swift water rescue technician and EMT First Responder.

Performance photo of Slash at the Tampa Bay Times Forum

Photo credit | Luis Santana

I gave up a career path in Fire/EMS to pursue photography more seriously and began freelancing for local newspapers. After a few years of freelancing for various magazines and newspapers I was offered a job with the Times. For the past 7 years I've been working as a staff photojournalist for the Tampa Bay Times (formerly the St. Petersburg Times) covering primarily music and entertainment as well as breaking news.

Space Shuttle Discovery on it's final flight aboard a shuttle transport vehicle enroute to the Smithsonian Institute Museum in Washing D.C. 

Photo credit | Luis Santana

The Tampa BayTimes is Florida's largest newspaper and one of the largest newspapers in the country. Working for such a great publication allows me access to some of the biggest events including the Super Bowl, Republican National Convention, award shows, concerts, and one of my favorites.. NASA. I was fortunate to be able to photograph the last 5 Space Shuttle launches ever. I was also one of only a handful of journalists to actually go inside of Space Shuttle Discovery. That was probably one of the coolest things I have ever done so far in my career as a photojournalist. NASA has since retired the Space Shuttle fleet so there will never be another space shuttle launch ever in my lifetime as they have now been moved to museums across the country. I was very fortunate to photograph the historic final flight and landing of the last Space Shuttle ever. 

Hurricane Charley damage in Lake Wales

Photo credit | Luis Santana

In addition to my job as a newspaper photographer  I also freelance for various national and international publications and agencies such as People Magazine, NY Post, National Enquirer, The BBC, Daily Mail, Hip Hop Weekly, Ozone Magazine, XXL, and many many more. I cover news and celebrities for many of the most well known tabloid magazines and a regular contributor to TV programs such as TMZ, Extra and the The Insider. 

The cockpit of Space Shuttle Discovery. I was one of a handful of journalists who got to tour the inside of the shuttle before being sent to D.C.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

I've covered the Tampa music scene for over 10 years and as a trusted photographer I often gain exclusive all access to many radio station and national concerts giving fans a look behind the scenes of some of the biggest names in music. Concert photography is one of the more fun things I get to do at the newspaper. I mean I get to shoot some of the biggest names in music and photograph them! It doesn't get much better than that!

Photos I did for the National Enquirer years ago about Hulk Hogan and his pets.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

I am available for portraits and event coverage for local bands and musicians in the Tampa Bay area. You can contact me through my website luissantanaphoto.com/contact 

Aerial photo of a stunt plane pilot flying over St. Pete. I later flew in the stunt plane as it did dozens of loops, rolls and high G turns.... and almost threw up!

Photo credit | Luis Santana

10 Questions with Luis Santana

Q: When did you get started in photography
             A: I got started in photography when I was about 16 years old. I was a Fire Dept. Explorer which is kinda like Boy Scouts but it focused on the fire service and EMS. My friends at school never believed all of the cool training and stuff we got to do so I started taking photos to show them. I eventually met a newspaper photographer who told me that I could sell my photos of fires and car crashes to newspapers for money. I started freelancing for newspapers and the rest is history.

Throwback photo of Kim K and Reggie Bush in Tampa

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Kirstie Alley walking barefoot in Clearwater

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: What type of gear do you use?
             A: I use Canon gear. My typical setup for most jobs whether it be a concert or breaking news scene is a 17-40mm and a 70-200mm f2.8 and a flash. I also occasionally use a 85mm f1.8 for all around use and portraits. When shooting concerts from the soundboard I use a 300mmf2.8 or 400mmf2.8. I use primarily Lowepro bags and edit with Lightroom on a PC.

Gene Simmons of KISS

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Obama motorcade leaves Tampa

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: What advice would you give to an aspiring photographer?
            A: LEARN YOUR CAMERA! A lot of times new photographers want to buy a DSLR camera and start shooting without ever learning the how and why of photography. Just because you kick ass on Instagram with your iPhone doesn't mean you are a photographer! I tell new photographers to learn the basics of light and photography especially the relationships between aperture, shutter and ISO first. Then learn what every feature and button on your camera does. Learn the buttons and the various modes of your camera so you can adapt and adjust to any lighting situation you come across. Especially if you plan to make this a career, you absolutely have to learn your craft. Experiment with your camera, take many many photos, digital is free so play with it and learn from your mistakes. Once you have the technical aspect of photography down the next step is to look at as many photos as you can. Study them, find out why they are interesting to you and what you like about that particular photograph and that will help you make better photos when a similar scenario presents itself in front of your lens.

NASA photo of the Space Shuttle leaving KSC. I was there!

Photo credit | Luis Santana

T-Pain portrait

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: What advice would you give to a photographer that wants to photograph concerts and shows?
             A: This is just my opinion based on seeing many new photographers ruin their chances at ever gaining access to shows again. First and foremost you must know how to use your camera. Get your practice shooting local shows and events in bars and clubs WITHOUT FLASH! This is a common mistake new concert photogs do. They practice in clubs and bars shooting local bands with flash. Pretty much every national artists and concert venue will not allow flash photography. So when you are used to shooting shows with a flash and then all of a sudden must shoot without a flash it creates problems for you. Once you are proficient in concert photography then you can approach a local newspaper or magazine and offer to shoot concerts for them on a freelance basis. Then you would request a media credential through the venue or tour management and shoot for a legitimate publication. Shooting for popular blogs can work but it is much more difficult to gain access just shooting for a stand alone website. Tour managers and venues seem to prefer actual publications such as newspapers and magazines over blogs. The last bit of advice I can give to a new concert photog is not to be "that guy" Don't show up to shows wanting to be backstage and get photos with artists or autographs. Don't take selfies infront of the stage or red carpet and don't ever let your ego get the best of you. No matter how cool you THINK you are there is someone way cooler than you and you will just look like a chump! When you meet a fellow photographer be friendly and strike up conversation, don't be too cool to socialize, and when you do be honest and don't brag. Us seasoned photogs can see right through your BS stories! haha 

Be friendly to everyone from the media rep at the venue and tour managers to the stage hands and security staff because you will never know who can help you out in the future. I have friends in all positions that I run into all the time and having that friendly relationship with them often times gets me that extra bit of access that I need. There are a few stage hands, stage managers, security staff and limo drivers that I have worked with for many years that always give me some good info. Many times these folks get over looked which I feel is a big mistake. Bottom line is be cool with everyone because you never know how they can help you in the future.

Space Shuttle Atlantis gets towed back to the hangar hours after landing. This was the last ever shuttle mission of NASA.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

SOCOM demo in Tampa

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: What is the coolest, nicest celeb you have worked with and why?
             A: I would have to say Pitbull. I have photographed him since before his first album before he was the big star he is now. I can honestly say that he is just as cool and accessible as back in the day. He is a great guy. Class act. Others in the cool dude category are John Travolta, Drake, T-Pain, Gene Simmons, Mario Andretti, Mario Lopez, Evan Longoria, Enrique Iglesias, Hulk Hogan, Paris Hilton, Will.I.Am, and Jordin Spark. I actually got to photograph Jordin for two days straight during the last Tampa Super Bowl. She was the biggest sweetheart you can meet. Totally cool. From eating breakfast at a Tampa Village Inn to signing random autographs and taking photos with fans she was awesome. I even introduced her into Twitter and even took her first ever profile pic! @JordinSparks

Secret Service agents stand by Air Force One moments after the president boarded the plane.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

I got a chance to photograph inside the Whitehouse. This was one of my favorite photos of the presidential limo parked in front of the Whitehouse during my visit.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: Who is the meanest, rudest celeb?

A: I have a few that come to mind! Ke$ha, Kirstie Alley, Busta Rhymes, Nicki Minaj,  2 Chainz and believe it or not... Justin Bieber. The last time I photographed him he was late to the meet and greet. He gave us photographers about 15 secs to photograph him. Then he said he was done and hid behind the photo backdrop while security escorted us out! He was very rude. It was a complete opposite when I photographed him after his first single. He was very friendly and even asked me to take photos of him with other artists that were backstage! It's pretty well known to us photogs that once the artist is up and coming access is great and they are super cool. Once they win a Grammy or get a #1 hit their ego goes through the roof and they turn on us haha! So no offense taken, it's something that goes with the job.

HCSO SWAT storm a trailer during a hostage situation in Gibsonton.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

HCSO SWAT

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: What concert was your favorite to shoot?
             A: It's really hard to say as everyone is fun but a few that come to mind was KISS and MGK. I wouldn't consider myself to be a KISS fan but after shooting their show and how they actually posed for us photographers during their performance was really really cool! They would actually point to one of us, pose and once we got the shot they would give us a thumbs up and move to the next photog. Really cool. The other artist that I like to shoot recently are ,MGK shows. Machine Gun Kelly is a character and every single time I have photographed him something wild happens! I've seen him climb lighting trusses, attempt  to breaking out windows at a hotel, hump random people, crowd surf and jump on top of a brand new Scion car that was on display on stage and put a huge dent in the roof!. The dude is wild! It's always a "what is he gonna do this time" when he comes to town.

HCSO SWAT transport a patient who held his wife hostage and shot at officers. The suspect was hit with bean bag grenades and was transported to the hospital.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Throwback photo of Paris Hilton and then boyfriend Benji Madden in St. Petersburg

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q:What concert or celeb would you want to shoot that you haven't already?
             A: I would say Jay-Z, Eminem, OutKast, and Dr. Dre

Brittney Spears tour photo

Photo credit | Luis Santana

FBI SWAT board an armored personnel carrier as they search for cop killer Dontae Morris in Tampa.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

Q: When you are not shooting photos what do you like to do?
             A: When I'm not shooting photos I like to shoot guns!
 But I actually prefer spending time with my wife and 3 kids, and flying RC airplanes... you know nerd stuff.

Behind the scenes photo of Victory Circle as Dario Franchitti wins the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

3-alarm apartment fire in Brandon

Photo credit | Luis Santana

On the launch pad with Space Shuttle Atlantis hours before the final mission of the United States Space Shuttle Program. This photo is memorable for me because this scene will never be seen ever as this was the last time a Space Shuttle was ever launched from the Kennedy Space Center.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

This is also a meaningful photo to me as this was the last launch of a US Space Shuttle. A truly historic set a photos I am grateful to have been able to take.

Photo credit | Luis Santana

'Behind the Lens' with Luis Santana

Photo credit | Jonathan Ridgely

Luis Santana | Social Media | Click Icons Below

Website: LuisSantanaPhoto.com
Blog: LuisSantanaPhoto.com/blog

'At Sunset last year, I was wearing a GoPro head mount as I photographed the crowd. Pretty cool perspective' - Luis Santana

"Femininity appears to be one of those qualities that is so important no one can define it."

Tayler May is originally from Maui, Hawaii and has lived in the Tampa Bay Area for going on 8 years. She enjoys being a mother to her son and hanging out with her friends. One of Tayler's favorite things to do is express her feelings through the art of a picture. "I could shoot for days, it's almost like therapy. Some of my best work is made while I'm going through something stressful because I can express it through the art of a picture." Tayler first began promoting herself through local calendars though out Florida, including the upcoming Florida Girls 2014 Calendar. Soon after she was published as being the Cover Girl for May 2013 as well as having a full spread for the nationally known online magazine, Strobe. You may have also seen her as Honey of the Month for March 2013 listed on belowthebeltshow.com. "I only strive for the best and I won't stop until I've done it all." Tayler has greatly enjoyed all the experiences and people she has been blessed in working with.

Photo credit | Justin Price

"We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really start to look fear in the face. We must do that which we think we cannot." -Eleanor Roosevelt   

Photo credit | Justin Price

Give us five words that think best describe you. 

Bold, adventurous, opinionated, outgoing, & strong-willed.

Photo credit | DEmO Photography 

Q: How would you describe your personality?
A: I'm a huge people person. I keep my guard up, yet I wear my heart on my sleeve. I've been called a "guys gal" for years and only have a few close girlfriends. I'm just down for a good time.

Photo credit | Justin Price

Q: How and when did you start modeling?
A: Two years ago. I started doing it as more of a hobby and to build a portfolio for myself. Soon after and way quicker than expected, my modeling career flourished and is continuously expanding.

Photo credit | DEmO Photography 

Q: In your opinion, what's the most important trait for a model to have in order to be successful? 
A: Confidence! Love yourself!

Photo credit | DEmO Photography 

Q: What is your favorite style of photo to take?
A: I love natural light, outdoors. I refuse to "duplicate" an image that has already been created. I get a "high" out of creating an idea that nobody would expect me to come up with. I guess you could call me a little "unpredictable." :)

Photo credit | Jwill Photo

Q: Any parting words for our readers and your fans?

Photo credit | DEmO Photography 

Tayler May | Social Media | Click Icon Below

“You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything, even poverty, you can survive it.”-Bill Cosby

Photo credit | L. Lee Photography

Barry S. Naylor is inspired by such comedians as Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett, Richard Pryor, Redd Foxx, George Carlin and Flip Wilson. Not only has this comedian appeared in “The Rivalry Guy” web series. Since 2008, Naylor joined Tampa's premier improvisation group entitled “Got Jokes Improv Comedy".Branching out into the standup comedy world this year has proven to be a step in the right direction. Currently, Barry is the creative mastermind behind the comedy sketch show "Flatlined", which he wrote, directed, and produced. It is only a matter of time before this comedian and actor is on the big screen. 

“I rather die enormous than live dormant”-Jay Z

Q: How did you get into comedy?

A: I was the class clown back in high school. When I got to college I decided to put it to good use by taking improv classes and joining a troupe. I moved to Tampa in 2008 and joined Got Jokes Improv where I met some of the funniest comedians in the bay area. They’re actually some of the ones who motivated me to do stand up.

Photo credit | L. Lee Photography

Q: Who is your favorite comedian?

A: I can’t narrow it down to just one. I like certain things from a lot of comedians. I like the story telling attributes of Bill Cosby and Richard Pryor. One is clean with genius delivery and the other is just simply raw. I like George Carlin because of his ability to take one scenario and dissect it in so many ways. I like so many people. Ellen Degeneres, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle, & Eddie Murphy. The list goes on..

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: It’s a mix of things. Sometimes I like to speak on subject matter that people will relate to. Other times I just have random thoughts that I need to get out of my brain no matter how off the wall it may be. I can’t tell people what to expect because I don’t know what to expect from myself sometimes.

Q: Where have you performed?

A: I’ve done a few spots in the Tampa area. The Tampa Improv, Jazz and Jokes at Whiskey North, American Stage in St Pete. I was the winner of the Rickey Smiley and Friends competition in Gainesville back in 2011.

Photo credit | Stokely Designs

Q: What are you plans for the future?

A: My plans are to ride this out and see how far I can go with it. Right now I’m working on putting together an hour long special and also attend different comedy clubs throughout the country.

Barry S. Naylor | Social Media | Click Icons Below

____________________________________________________________

Comedy Chronicles of The 'Unbreakable' CHUCK GLASS

Chuck talks dirty to food!

CLICK HERE to listen to CHUCK GLASS'S 'Believe me, I'm Lying'

CLICK HERE to listen to CHUCK GLASS'S 'Believe me, I'm Lying'

CLICK HERE to listen to CHUCK GLASS'S 'Believe me, I'm Lying'

Chuck Glass | Social Media | Click Icons Below

Kidd Leow teamed up with Adam Levine from Maroon 5, Ryan Tedder from OneRepublic, the Far East Movement, & The Cataracs. 

Check out these mini mixes!

Adam Levine	Far East Movement	Ryan Tedder	The Cataracs
CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE

Brian McConnell | Social Media | Click Icons Below

BrianMcConnellMusic.com

93.3FLZ Exclusive | The Cataracs & VJ Kidd Leow

Present a mini mix of all Cataracs music!

Playlist 

Niles talks about what he's been up to kick off the mini mix! 

Big Dipper - The Cataracs ft. Luciana

All You - The Cataracs ft. Waka Flocka & Kaskade

Alcohol (Remix) - Sky Blu & The Cataracs

Roll The Dice - The Cataracs

Miss U 2 - The Cataracs ft. Petros

Niles closes out the mini!

CLICK HERE to listen to The Cataracs & VJ Kidd Leow mini mix for the fans!

CLICK HERE to listen to The Cataracs & VJ Kidd Leow mini mix for the fans!

CLICK HERE to listen to The Cataracs & VJ Kidd Leow mini mix for the fans!

The Cataracs | Social Media | Click Icons Below

TheCataracs.com

Maroon 5	Far East Movement	OneRepublic
Adam Levine & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!	Far East Movement & Kidd Leow  team up for a mini mix!	Ryan Tedder & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!
CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!

"You don't take a photograph, you make it." -Ansel Adams

'Rachel Jolley'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'I Love L.A.'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

"One good thing about music is when it hits you, you feel no pain." -Bob Marley

'Ziggy Marley'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

A rarity these days, Rachel Jolley is a native to the Tampa Bay area. Born and raised in "The 'Burg," Jolley earned her bachelor's degree in mass communications from the University of South Florida in 2009. 

'Mad Man's Land'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

She is currently working remotely as a news editor for AOL. Prior to her career taking off, Jolley started a photography company where she was able to photograph a variety of subjects, from NFL games to musicians like Colbie Caillat and even Playboy models. 

'Mozambique'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

When time permits between her full time career and her part time passion, Jolley tries to get out to the soccer field to shake some rust off of her once busy cleats. 

'No Ordinary Cats'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

She lists soccer as her first love and pursued her playing career through a Division 1 athletic scholarship. However, Jolley was forced to retire to the sidelines in 2006 after a string of serious, chronic injuries. Now, she stays connected to the game through coaching competitive youth teams.

'The Perfect Union'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Q: How did you get into photography?

A: I've  been an imaginative being since I can remember. I guess it all started with traveling. I used to take a bundle of disposable cameras with me on every trip, whether it was a visit to the Grand Canyon or an excursion to Mexico. I've always felt this need to put my vision into hardcopy and really capture a moment. I took a photography class in high school where we learned how to shoot, develop and dye film. That was the true seed of my passion. The first photo I ever entered into a contest while I was in that class, won. I'm the competitive type, so after that rush, I was hooked.

'Paradise Found'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Q: What are your favorite genres to shoot?

A: This is tough because I am open to almost anything. I've tapped into most genres, from weddings and portraits to news and fashion. Over time I've realized that my favorite genres are connected to my personal investments. I'm a music junkie, so live music is definitely in my top three. I'd follow that up with action and culture. For action, I enjoy shooting football and soccer games as well as surfing and skateboarding. I had to add culture because of my love for travel and experiencing different ways of life. A succeeded attempt to lock in those memories with a photo-- there's nothing more powerful that.

'Spent'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I feel like someone else should answer this question because I don't really know how to. (Laughs) In one word, I'd say deep. It doesn't matter what the assignment is, I am always in search of a raw connection with my subject. And I won't stop shooting until I find it. When I press the shutter for that image, it's instantaneous-- like trying on the right wedding dress or striking a soccer ball with the perfect amount of lace and force-- everything stops and you know you've got something wonderful.

'Claudio Sanchez'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Q: What kind of gear are you working with?

A: I wouldn't mind going back to using disposables, actually. (Laughs) Right now I'm working with a Nikon D7000 and couple basic lenses. To me, it's always been about the quality of my images and their composition, not so much about the quantity of my gear. I actually hate using flash or artificial lighting and will resist it as much as I can. Natural light is my most invaluable piece of equipment. With cameras these days, an amateur can shoot in automatic and the image is as clear and balanced as a pro. What sets photographers apart now is their vision, not their gear.

'A World Apart'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Q: What inspires you when you're shooting?

A: Holy loaded question, Batman. Is "everything" an option here? I guess you can't really define that, can you? It just happens. It's like love at first sight-- you see it, know what you have to do to capture it and you do it. If you have chemistry with a model, she becomes your muse for the next 8 hours or if you connect with a local in Africa, you offer to do family portraits at no cost. The images are the payoff, not the green. Inspiration can come in any form, really. For me, it's more about what I do with it than defining the actual root of it.

'Window To The Soul'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'Reach For The Stars'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'Travis Stever'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'Tyson Ritter - All American Rejects'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'Finally' 

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

'Rachel Jolley'

Photo Credit | Rachel Jolley

Rachel Jolley | Social Media | Click Icons Below

Blog:rjandc.com

Maroon 5	Far East Movement	OneRepublic
Adam Levine & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!	Far East Movement & Kidd Leow  team up for a mini mix!	Ryan Tedder & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!
CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!

Photo credit | Russ Robinson

A diverse group of experienced professional musicians from Tampa, One Mile Final crafts textured anthems that incorporate the styles of rock, hip-hop, country, jazz, and blues. Formed in 2008, the band has played extensively throughout Florida, where they have built a dedicated fan base through their energetic live performances, dynamic original songs, and innovative renderings of popular tunes. Their first self-titled record debuted in December 2011 and is quickly selling out of its first pressing. The band can be found every week playing in a number of venues in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Orlando, Sarasota, and other cities across Florida. They are currently gearing up for a short regional tour in the coming months, to be followed by another recording session. 

Photo credit | Ashlee Hamon

One Mile Final grew out of earlier projects between several veteran Bay area musicians. Lead singer and songwriter Brian Spotts played music professionally as a solo artist for several years before he teamed up with the band’s current rhythm section, paying his dues as a bar staple in his hometown of Tampa, FL. During his years of gigging for college kids, weekend partiers, and local drunks he cultivated a unique vocal and guitar sound that spans several genres but is heavily influenced by artists such as Bob Schneider, Dave Matthews, and John Mayer. His impressive vocal range covers four octaves and can shake down the walls of almost every venue the band plays. As the primary songsmith, Spotts fuses his infectious vocal melodies and cunning lyrics with a refined, syncopated guitar style to create the band’s catchy yet sophisticated compositions. 

Photo credit | Ashlee Hamon

During the mid-2000s Spotts played together in a few bands with drummer Josh Davidson before the latter left for the Army. Upon his return from overseas, he rejoined forces with Spotts to form the band Black & Blue which cut its teeth in the bars and clubs of southern Florida. A highly technical percussionist influenced by Lars Ulrich, Carter Beauford, Mike Portnoy, and the late Jimmy 'The Rev' Sullivan, Davidson is the engine that propels the band through its original compositions and cover renditions. Having played professionally since his teens, Davidson is an accomplished musician and his expertise shines through in his quick-fire, pulsating beats and inventive fills. In 2011, he won a regional drumming competition sponsored by Roland Drums in Miami before taking on some the best in the country in Las Vegas. 

Photo credit | Ashlee Hamon

Bassist Chase Collins joined the band shortly after it started, moving from Colorado at the behest of Davidson, his longtime friend and military compatriot. Collins, a Dallas, TX native, is a multi-instrumentalist and seasoned musician who has played in bands across the country. Arriving in Tampa after serving in the Army overseas and out west, Collins soon mastered the bass guitar, weaving complex rhythm lines together with Davidson’s thumping beats. A proficient guitar player and vocalist, Collins’ intricate melodies are influenced by artists such as Taking Back Sunday, Centro-matic, Brand New, and Bob Schneider. His bass parts and backing vocals fill out One Mile Final’s rich sound, offering waves of tonal depth that reverberate throughout the band’s recordings and live performances. Since he stopped shaving sometime in 2009, Collins’ distinctive beard has made him a favorite amongst the ladies…and the fellas. 

Photo credit | Ashlee Hamon

Lead guitarist Tim Burke joined the group in 2009 after his brother left the band. Burke is a longtime regular on the Tampa music scene, having been part of several area bands since he left high school. An accomplished acoustic and electric guitarist who studied the instrument at the University of South Florida, Burke is influenced by the unorthodox tunings and distinctive finger-style playing of virtuosos such as Tim Reynolds, Andy McKee, and Craig D’Andrea. His electric guitar technique incorporates the styles and melodies of blues, rock, jazz, and traditional folk music to create an overdriven sound that counterpoises the vocal melodies of Spotts while pressing the band into new sonic terrain. Since joining, Burke has given One Mile Final a harsher edge through his complementary phrasing and blistering solos, all played on his beloved Fender Stratocaster. He is bald.

I recently got an opportunity to sit down with him and "pick Brian's brain". Here's what he had to say:

A: I used to describe our music as a blend of Dave Matthews, Jack Johnson, and John Mayer, but I recently realized that our music is a much more eclectic blend than that. I tend to bring an acoustic rock influence to the music, Josh brings Metallica and System of a Down influences, Chase brings a style similar to Taking Back Sunday and Bob Schneider, and Tim brings U2 and Bright Eyes. Our struggle to blend these contrasting influences is where I think the real magic of our music lies.

'Reboot'

Photo credit | Ashlee Hamon

Album art credit | Scot Arvonio

One Mile Final has enjoyed strong sales of their debut self-titled EP (available on iTunes here), and are currently working on recording a live album, which the band feels will showcase their tight and entertaining live performances. If you haven't seen them perform yet, visit www.onemilefinalband.com for upcoming dates.

One Mile Final | Social Media | Click Icons Below

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

Nathan Ray originally from Ohio where he attended The Ohio State University has been in the Clearwater and Tampa bay area permanently for the last 13 years. Nathan states “I love Clearwater, I,ve been coming down here with my family on vacations all my life. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”  

Nathan Ray studied photojournalism at OSU where his love for art and music grew. Nathan’s DJ career has exploded the  over the past 10 years where he has opened for The Gin Blossoms, Vanilla Ice, Sak Noel, and Havanna Brown along with many others. “I've met a lot of cool people, DJ’s and artist over the past 10 years its been amazing.” says Nathan.  As far as Nathans work as a photographer goes, he loves shooting sports and street photography, his style is that of a true photojournalist. “Shooting baseball and soccer that’s my passion” states Nathan. You can find Nathan Ray at Shephard’s on Clearwater beach where he has been the resident DJ at the Wave Nightclub and Tiki bar for the last 8 years. Nathan is also the official DJ of the Philadelphia Phillies spring training.

"Major beach soccer nationals"

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

Q: Who was your influence as a photographer

A: most definitely Henri Cartier-Bresson, he was a pioneer street photography and the father of photojournalism. If you ever have a chance to read his book “The Mind’s Eye” it’s a collection of his writings and sort of an autobiography. 

"Taken in London from St. Paul's Cathedral"

Photo credit | Nathan Ray  

"Downtown Clearwater bridge" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

Q: What equipment do you use?

A: Ive been shooting with Canon for for the last 15 years, I love My 5D and Mark IV. I remember my first film camera was a Canon Ae-1. 

"Taken in London"

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

"Taken at the Manifesto festival in Toronto" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

"A protest for Women rights taken at Trafalgar square" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

"Taken in North London" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

Q: When did you first start DJ’in?

A: I started throwing parties when I was in College at The Ohio State University. I've always loved music and have been fortune it enough to be able to make a successful career out of it. I've had the opportunity to meet some great artist and DJ’s along the way.

"Taken at the Tampa Bay Rays game Edwin Jackson"

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

"Clearwater Threshers game" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

"Lakeland Flying Tigers game" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray

Q: What are your plans for the future?

A: I really can't answer that. You never know what life is going to throw at you. Im just enjoying the ride right now. 

"DJ Ray mixing at Shephard's on Clearwater Beach, FL" 

Photo credit | Nathan Ray 

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Maroon 5	Far East Movement	OneRepublic
Adam Levine & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!	Far East Movement & Kidd Leow  team up for a mini mix!	Ryan Tedder & Kidd Leow team up for a mini mix!
CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!	CLICK HERE!

"Those who dance are considered insane by those who cannot hear the music." - George Carlin

Photo Credit | Bruce Amoroso | BruceAmoroso.com | Facebook.com/amoroso10 

Danielle Trax is originally from New Jersey & has been residing in the Tampa Bay area for about 8 years. The weather, family, friends, and opportunity keep her here in this tropical climate. “I love the beach and have an awesome job bartending at the Hard Rock Café!” she exclaims. Danielle enjoys creating and sampling unique and original beverages. “Being a certified bartender by the Hard Rock Café has definitely expanded my knowledge in this area,” she explained. Along with her work as a mixologist, Danielle has appeared in a few commercials as well, including an ABC Hard Rock promotional commercial, LKQ Self Service Auto Parts, and The Allstate Foundation Purple Purse Campaign which helps educate and support domestic violence victims.

In Danielle’s spare time she enjoys painting and being spontaneous. “Painting is a sort of therapy for me…I can zone out and let my creative juices flow!” One of her favorite artists is actually a photographer named David LaChapelle. “His work is truly amazing and off the wall. I love how uniquely expressive his photography is.” Danielle’s future consists of working on getting her art displayed and distributed nationally while expanding her modeling portfolio to be featured in national ad campaigns.

Photo Credit | Bruce Amoroso

Q: Where are you favorite locations to shoot?

A: I love being outside with natural light, although something I’ve learned in past photo shoots is that the weather is not always on your side. This can cause problems. It can also be a nice surprise if the wind blows at just the right moment-BOOM!- perfect shot!

Phot credit | David Bailey | Dbaileyimages.com | Facebook.com/dbaileyimages

Phot credit | David Bailey

Q: What is your favorite style of photo to take?

A: I enjoy all types, but the “artsy” style is very interesting and exciting to me. I like being able to be creative and “go with the flow” in shoots. Sometimes the original idea doesn’t work out, so keeping an open mind and trying something outside the box can be just the ticket! 

Phot credit | David Bailey

Phot credit | David Bailey

Q: What are your interests outside of modeling and promo work?

A: Well I own three hermit crabs (Shel Silverstein, Shelly Duval, and Bob Ross) and two kittens I adopted from the Humane Society of Tampa. I believe if anyone is looking for a pet they should definitely adopt! The shelter houses many innocent animals that need a good home. I named one of my kittens Yossarian (or YoYo) after the main character of my favorite book Catch-22 by Joseph Heller. I try to read a little every day, since that is another passion of mine. Currently I’m reading Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith. I’ve always been a zombie lover ever since I saw Michael Jackson's "Thriller" as a child. I think that’s where my love for horror films stems from. 

Photo credit | Chrisitan Bauer | 12to12Productions.com | facebook.com/12to12productions

Q: So did you go to school in Tampa?

A: I graduated from USF with a business degree concentrating in marketing and management. I enjoyed going to college here in Tampa. It was a big enough city where I could feel independent from home, but small enough where I wasn’t overwhelmed. I’m a Bulls fan all the way! Go Bulls!

Photo credit | BullsOutfitter.com

Q: So you mentioned you like to paint. What is your favorite style?

A: I love abstract art. I love it because two people can look at the same painting and see two totally different things, and see something different each time they look at it depending on the type of mood they’re in. When I paint I usually have a starting idea but not a full game plan. The spray paint might not fall the exact way I plan so I just go with the flow. An idea I start off with usually is not what the finished product looks like in the end. I’m inspired by emotion, color, and a complicated idea that can only be expressed by paint on a canvas. It’s very therapeutic and I love when others love my work as well. 

Art credit | Danielle Trax

"But If I fall I fall up, I'll let the clouds hug me & if I fall down I bet I hit the ground runnin'' - Lil Wayne 

Art credit | Danielle Trax

Danielle says, "I don't like to name my art because I don't like to persuade people to see what I see, I want them to see what they feel".

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