Back to the Basics

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Over the past couple years, Silverbox has continued to evolve in ways that feel both familiar and new. I still design every day, and photography remains a central part of my work, spending time regularly in the Philadelphia area doing what I’ve always loved. Alongside that, I’ve found myself returning to something that quietly shaped me long before Silverbox began: painting. Tucked into a small studio in the woods, I spend time after work exploring paint, revisiting art history, journaling, and giving myself space to think and create without an agenda. This isn’t a pivot away from my work, but a deepening of it. For now, this chapter is simply about making room for creativity for its own sake, and letting that sense of joy ripple naturally into everything I do.

Wishing you peace in the new year, and heartfelt thanks to those who allow me to keep creating, year after year.

Looking Back: A Stunning Holiday Card Session

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As February flies by, we reflect on the wonderful moments we captured last holiday season. One standout session from fall 2024 took place at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where a longtime client’s family created a timeless holiday card portrait.

Just last weekend, standing on the same museum steps for the Eagles parade, I reminisced about that beautiful fall session. The same iconic location that framed our elegant holiday portraits was now buzzing with Philadelphia pride.

This family chose a breathtaking city backdrop for their holiday card, coordinating in deep greens and navy hues that perfectly complemented the crisp fall setting. Their portraits captured warmth, love, and sophistication—everything a holiday card should convey.

Plan Your Next Session
While the holidays have passed, it’s never too early to plan your next family portrait. Whether you prefer a scenic outdoor backdrop, a studio setting, or a cozy in-home session, we’re here to create images that reflect your family’s unique spirit.

If the Stars Align

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If the stars align (pun intended), we might be in for one of the most stunning sights on Earth – the Northern Lights. I first experienced this in May, and as a photographer, trying to work with my gear in the dark, I was both in awe and starstruck (pun intended again). Oddly enough, I had another go in August. I’m starting to get the hang of it but would love more practice. Luckily, we may get another chance in the next day or so. I’ve put together a fun, less technical list of what I’ve learned (and am still learning) to help you make the most of it!

Darkness is Key: Get far away from streetlights, and any light pollution.

Tripod Time: Unless you’re secretly a statue, get a tripod to keep your phone steady.

Night Mode Magic: Let your iPhone shine—use Night Mode and extend the exposure to about 10 seconds.

Hands-Free, Please: Use a timer or remote shutter so you don’t shake the phone. I bought this tripod, which came with a remote for my phone.

Frame with Nature: Use trees, mountains, or lakes to frame the aurora. Nature makes everything more magical.

Include Silhouettes: Snap your friend’s silhouette under the lights—it adds a personal, dreamy touch.

Cozy in the Cold: Bring blankets, hot cocoa, and bug spray! Capture the cozy moment while soaking in the show.

Get Creative with Light: “Paint” words in the air with a flashlight while the lights dance behind you.

Starry Playlist: Set the mood with space-themed tunes—think Bowie’s Space Oddity or Van Morrison’s Moondance.

Light up a Campfire: If allowed, add the warm glow of a fire for extra magic and cool photo contrast.

Timelapse with Nature: Record both the aurora and nature’s slow movements for a peaceful, meditative effect.

Aurora Selfies: Play with angles and poses—maybe “reach” for the aurora or lie down and gaze up.

Star-Themed Snacks: Bring star-shaped treats and snap them with the aurora for a playful touch.

Mirror the Magic: Use a handheld mirror to reflect the aurora, capturing both the real northern lights in the sky and their reflection in the mirror. The result? A surreal, dreamlike image with luminous colors glowing against a dark, starry night.

Now go capture those Northern Lights like a pro!