The L.A.-based lensman, featured in Ammo’s Milk and Honey photo book, has a knack for capturing the sunny free-spirit vibe of L.A. living.

I knew I wanted to be a photographer when…
I was 18 and out taking photos during a storm when I was struck by lightning. While I was in the hospital recovering I looked at photography books and it became clear to me what I wanted to do.

The subject I’m most drawn to…
Violently spirited energetic freckles.

The inspiration behind my Stay Cool photo series…
I had an idea. I did the idea. It felt good. I did it over and over. I think the concept of doing something that makes you feel good is what makes something worth doing.

Living in L.A. impacts my work by…
Awesome fuzzy warm magical city = awesome fuzzy warm magical photos.

My camera of choice…
Canon 1Ds.

I put my subjects at ease with…
Tiddlywinks.

My photography icon…
Steve Jobs. Do I need to say why Steve Jobs?

My most memorable shoot…
There are a few. First, having one of my best friends skateboard on the 10 freeway in traffic (above). Four friends climbing on a traffic pole in Beverly Hills and high-fiving tourists on a double-decker bus. Convincing a cop to bunny-hop on a razor scooter on Sunset Blvd.

Best advice I ever received…
Before he died I had the honor of meeting Helmut Newton and he said to me, “Try to make everyone take their shirts off.”

And my advice for the would-be photographer…
Have fun. Take pictures. Repeat.