Tuesday, March 23, 2010

He Is Who We Thought He Was...

Here at SSD, we always try to uncover the truth about situations. I understand politics is a dirty game and most politicians promise to do many things to get elected. President Obama is one president that actually delivered on a promise.

The way I see it is simple. Obama did exactly what he said he would do, which is get the health care reform issue signed into a bill from Congress. We as a country voted for him to do it and he delivered.

What does that mean exactly? It means that America can once again be considered a super power seeing as other countries have provided health care for their citizens for years.

What the future holds now, I have no idea, but at least we can rest knowing that all US Citizens can have affordable health care.

I do have to do more research of what this means to have affordable health care because I remember having affordable health care but actually being IN THE HOSPITAL when my insurance cancelled on me. Which is another issue Obama has discussed.

I mean for real, I paid my premium and they didn't hold up their end of the bargain. WHAT!!!? Sorry, side vent.

Anyway, congrats to President Obama for realizing yet ANOTHER dream come true. Mr. Pres should be an inspiration to people all over the world consistently overcoming obstacles to achieve his goals.

Forgive me for gloating, but I'm PROUD to be from Chicagoland area... JOLIET!!!!...

I leave you with a clip that should remind you all that people from the "cold windy Chi-City" ARE who you Thought WE are! The ISH!!!!!


"If you want to crown him then crown him, but he is who we thought he was..."


Remember to always believe in yourself no matter what!
Have a great day everyone. Keep ya swag turned on!

Swag Turned All The Way Up...

Hop up outta beeeeeeed, turn my swag onnnn...Wow, one week later from the day I took a late night oath at the 7-11 to never doubt my self again, guess who comes to town?

Soulja Boy Tell Em hit San Diego solidifying the fact that no one should ever turn their swag off!

To be honest, by Soulja Boy performing at Stingaree for a late night club appearance, it pretty much proved to me that you should always believe in yourself and stay motivated.

Soulja Boy is a young CEO of his own record label just barely 21 who believed in his self and now is a major contender in Rap's new school of artists.

Soulja Boy's performance had the crowd hype and it was good to see a young talent believing in himself and making his dreams come true.

Monday, March 22, 2010

A New Vision...

Picture this: President Obama, Diddy, Jay-Z, Kanye, Drake and Sasha Fierce not having the certain swag and confidence we know them to have! Would they be where they are now? Probably not. I'm sure someone told them they couldn't achieve their goals, but they still believed they could.

To sum it up, no truly successful person has ever had low self esteem. Period. If they did have low self esteem, they still believed in their TALENT which pushed them to success.

I could finish there but I want you to understand how my thought process has developed over time living life as Ivan S. Harris the photographer/artist commonly referred to as The I.$.H.

I already know you have to have thick skin in order to be a photographer/artist because some people will like your work and some won't. That's easy, I can deal with that.

What most people may not know is, as of two weeks ago, I had this "the nice guy-worried about what everyone thinks about me personally-doubt myself-low self esteem-don't want to step on any one's toes-try to please everyone" mentality. Although with that mindset I was able to successfully build trust with many people, I consistently felt unfulfilled sort of like there was something missing.

In order to find out what was missing, last week I took some time off to do some personal and professional research. Actually I was still technically working because when you are self employed, you are ALWAYS working.

It turns out there were many events going on that usually with no question I would be covering but because of my research, I took the time to actually enjoy them this week rather than "photograph/work" them.

I know some people will read this and think I am full of myself or self-centered but the fact remains if I don't believe in myself no one will. After last week, I've finally decided I don't care anymore because the nice guy Ivan was skipped over and taken advantage of, but the new and improved ISH got everything he wanted, literally.

Exclusively to SSD, this low self esteem mentality that I carried was one of the main reasons for me deciding to cut my hair last year. Now that I have my new vision, I'm glad I did, not for anyone else but for myself.

I am tired of feeling unsatisfied in order to make others happy. This last week, I proved that people instantly flock to the confident, aggressive, go-getter time and time again. Starting this new week, I see the difference between the two clearly.

My coming to the realization that I shouldn't care what anyone thinks anymore is what my new vision is about. My scope has changed indefinitely and now I that I am in it to win it, after all this time, I finally believe I CAN.

Before last Friday, I was unsure of my worth, biting my tongue, not speaking my mind and just all around holding back, so I would see myself being passed over repeatedly.

Whether it was intimately, personally, professionally and even with friends, but once I took control, it was like the change happened over night. I REFUSE to ever go back to being THAT GUY from two weeks ago!

Mind you, I have worked hard in this city and because of that I have built many great relationships which allows me to have perks that most people may not have, so this week I decided to take advantage of being the Daygo Shore's I.$.H.*uation.

I won't discuss the whole weeks itinerary, but the main event of my week-off, research project was the grand opening of Fluxx Night Club in San Diego. This event was epic so of course San Diego's cream of the crop was sure to be in attendance.

Ironically, the first thing that came out of most peoples mouth was "where's your camera?" and not, "Hey, I'm happy to see you, how are you doing?"

After a while it started to make me think, what do people really think of me? Do they genuinely care about me or do they just want their picture taken? Ahhh, oh well its the nature of the beast of my business and it's not personal because I didn't move to California to make friends, but to make millions through my talent and with my new mentality, I don't care either.

Anyway, to explain why I didn't have my camera, first off, Fluxx has an in-house photographer John Audley a.k.a. Be Water Photo, who I respect.

I wasn't gonna step on his toes, at least not on this particular night and occasion because it was his time to shine.

Ive worked too hard and established myself so now I've finally come to a point in my career where I'm not just showing up to shoot unless I am officially booked via verbally or contractually. To go in depth, that way I am not chasing people around for a check for weeks because of the confusion.

The other reason I didn't have my camera is because I was personally invited by one of Fluxx Nightclubs owners Mikey G, who I have the up most respect for, so anytime an owner invites you to something you should be honored and accept the invitation,which I gladly did. Thanks Mike, your place is awesome!

Thanks to Lauren Clifford, one of my Public Relations clients from JPR who I work with frequently, I walked right in with no waiting in line alongside my two guests Elizabeth and Sharon on my arm.

The event was an excellent way to debut a new club in San Diego and its sure to bring some added fun to the Gaslamp District.

That night I learned a valuable lesson which is if you doubt yourself, if you don't believe in yourself or if you don't carry yourself with the most respect no one else will either.

I work very hard at what I do, and throughout my four years in San Diego, I have built a network and strong relationship with people including business owners, PR companies and other establishments, so being treated like a celebrity for my talent amongst my peers is definitely an honor and a lifestyle I don't want to be denied of ever again.

The gist of this story comes from last weekend where I promised myself I would never be that guy wandering alone in 7-11 again reading a magazine at 2 in the morning because I doubted myself and "missed the bus" so to speak.

I know you are asking what am I talking about, and without going into further details, basically there was a scenario where I doubted myself, second guessed the situation and missed the opportunity, which left me out in the cold. Now, I refuse to ever be "cold" again.

I was thinking about my self doubt, I had to call friends BACK HOME and ask them what was wrong with me. Everyone said the same thing, "You're dumb, believe in yourself and go do what you have to do!" So now, I say go get whatever it is you want! No matter what it is. If you believe you can achieve.

My intentions in writing this story, enjoying my week off and taking advantage of the perks was NOT to brag but to pay homage to my clients, personal contacts and business associates as well as the revelation of me coming to realize MY own worth and value as the photographer known throughout San Diego County as Ivan S. Harris, the ISH.

Now that The BEST WEEK ever is over and its back to work, I'm gonna need you to...NO, as a matter of fact my new mindset has kicked in so I'm TELLING YOU to make sure you have your A-Game on deck, because I'm Damn sure coming strong with mine.

*Sidenote Thanks to Chris Jones for coming to get me from that store and snapping me out of that low self esteem funk or else I would still be bored reading about gardening! You are one of my true friends I can call on since moving to California!


thanks to my photographer colleagues...
*Devin and Bradley of www.discoversd.com
*John Audley of Be Water Photo

Monday, March 15, 2010

In The Studio with E-40 & Tommy Redding...

In order to be successful, you have to put in hard work, hard work, hard work, some more hard work, have good timing, preparation, and oh did I mention hard work. Oh yeah, that's just the first part. After all of the hard work, preparation and timing, you still have to have the opportunity!

Most of the time if you work hard enough, you will get the opportunity and that's where the preparation comes in. Of course you want to be prepared for your opportunity and the opportunity is now for Tommy Redding, Ivan S. Harris Photography and Ridiculous Entertainment.

This site is dedicated to erasing the "hype" and uncovering truth as well as the documentation of an artist with a dream trying to make it to the top.

Honestly, I've seen the first level of the mountain top and now I can truthfully say working with E-40 means there is no turning back.

For me as a photographer, shooting studio time with a pioneer rap artist such as E-40 is the epitome of what it means to be a lifestyle photographer.

For Tommy Redding as an R&B recording artist from California, working with A PIONEER California artist, means the beginning of the realization of a dream coming true.

I like the fact that two up and coming "artists" are working hard towards a goal all while working together focusing on the end result which is success!

Be on the look out, because the determination, drive and persistence won't stop. I learned from Diddy 10 years ago to not stop, so ISH can't stop and won't stop, un uh! ha!

Check out the photos here...

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Telephone

Most of you already know I like almost anything that has to do with Beyonce, including guest appearances and features.

Well friends, I'm proud to say Lady Gaga's video for Telephone featuring Beyonce has finally been released after being delayed.

I'd also like to say, I really like the idea of Beyonce and Lady GaGa half naked in the video cruising around town in the P*Wagon, but other than that I don't get this video and I can honestly say I'm lost.

I do however like the creativity and the fact that they based some of the video's concept from Thelma And Louise.

Other than that, as Beyonce would say, "I'm Speechless."

With that said...have fun with the video kids and thanks to http://www.missjia.com/ for posting the entire video!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Tonight...

Usually when I am doing my daily routine of emailing clients, photo editing and other boring admin stuff, I tend to listen to music to keep my groove going.

Every once in a while as I am skimming through the random playlist, a song catches my ear and I will end up putting it on repeat.

After 20 years of listening to music I have concluded, if I repeat it more than three times usually that song is a hit. I haven't been wrong about my "repeatable" theory in a long time especially if I repeated that particular song more than 3 times in a row.

The irony is this repeatable theory is usually how I determine what songs go on The I.$.H. Presents mixtapes. Quite frankly, I am strongly considering putting this song on that Motivational music mixtape I have been working on for real.

I am however curious about this song. It has been on repeat all day and I am feeling it, but I am really interested in what you all think?

For the record, I THINK its a banger. It puts me in that "I'm gonna get it innnnn tonight" type of mood. Ha Ha!

Let me know what you think about this song...


Ludacris Guest Hosting Live With Regis & Kelly

I think its excellent when people have multiple talents and can step out of their realm to go on to do other endeavours. Its also a great thing if they can step out and become successful at that new found passion. As good as it is to venture out, its always good to be able to return to the roots as well.

Many people may not know but "Luda"Chris Bridges, started out as an Atlanta radio disc jockey before getting his big break as a rapper. It was only a matter of time before he returned to the broadcasting booth because he was already familiar with the broadcasting world.

That time has come because earlier today, Ludacris filled in for Regis Philbin of the Live With Regis And Kelly Morning TV show. I wasn't surprised at all because broadcasting is surely included in his resume.

In my opinion, Ludacris did a good job and it was cool to see him out of his rapstar element by putting on the trusty broadcasting suit and tie while interviewing guests as opposed to being the guest interviewed as he usually is.

RIP To The True Lost Boy

Death is hard to deal with whether you know the person personally or not. Its even harder when we lose a "celebrity" that may have touched our life in some sort of way. But the hardest thing to do is to wake up in the morning and see one of your favorite celebrity has passed away.

Corey Haim, one of the most illustrious child stars in the 80's, has passed away at the age of 38.

Growing up Corey Haim was one of my favorite actors in such films as Silver Bullet, and The Lost Boys.

Haim has been going through the trials and tribulations of growing up as a child actor struggling to come into adulthood, such as having more money than knowing what to do with and becoming addicted to drugs.

As of 2007, Haim was on the path to making a comeback to the acting world but still struggled with his drug addiction.

Haim passed away early this morning.

This is definitely a great loss to the acting world.

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

Epidemic...

Most people that know me personally, know that I write literary pieces of work to go along with certain photos that I take. Sometimes my writing is used sort of like an emotional release valve and sometimes I write because its simply a way to clear my thoughts.

Since I am an artist, my mind becomes scattered with chaos, madness, clutter and perfection. An oxymoron? Yes, I know. And until I finish my memoirs book, which may be never, I have no outlet to expose my work.

So every once in a while I will post the work here on SSD!

I decided to post "Epidemic" because I actually love this photo and it matches the feeling that a lot of my actual women friends have been sharing with me as of late. (Why? I have no idea, but If I can help someone out then my job is done.)

The whole idea about women not settling, but accepting wine, a good book and alone time as being better than true companionship is just crazy to me.

Obviously, no one wants to deal with the hassles of relationships but at the same time, spending every Saturday night being alone becomes redundant as well. This is why I was inspired to write Epidemic. Thanks to Michael Lee of A Style Concierge for the talk. I will channel all of my artistry through SSD. So check it out...

Epidemic
Inspired and career motivated, she often spends late nights alone. No man is on the same level and it seems to be easier being alone…or so she thinks. After a long day, she sips some pinot while reading a great book, when suddenly the tingle sneaks up. Aroused, she’s ready to touch the sacred erogenous zone.

Thinking no one is around, she quickly takes a second look. That sweet spot she searches to find holds the key to the exit called ecstasy, but wait, its taboo and too private to discuss here, but just for a moment I want to.

Knowing that no one is home, all too often a woman’s desire goes unfulfilled and it’s a shame. The female body is a crown jewel that needs to be cherished. Every curve, every nerve and every inch of her body should be caressed by someone that genuinely cares. But being vulnerable, she ends up settling for something that’s usually 1 and done.

This epidemic in her life causes pandemonium and at the very first sense of triumph she pounces before she thoroughly researches her prey. Like a tigress in heat, she claws, rips and tears, lusting of the flesh. She finds herself hungry for more, unsatisfied because the emotional soul attachment wasn’t there.

I must say, a woman not finding true passion is an epidemic and the art of multiple orgasms her girlfriends have bragged about is a challenge that most men have not been able to conquer.

Even though she’d rather go backwards then to put a new notch on the belt, she still wonders, why settle? She remembers a happier time with him. But there was no inner peace while waiting patiently, wondering when he would turn up.

That last guy is why she chose to be single, at least that’s what she tells herself. “That’s what this book, my secret friend hidden in the dresser and my favorite wine is for, right?”

After all the games played in the past, she decided no mans touch was good enough…or so she believes. Most guys don’t appreciate it, but to her it’s an honor for any man to touch her. For her, it’s not about just 1 time, mind blowing excitement, and surely the headache of dealing with another too-good-gone-bad relationship is not an option either.

So a deeper thought takes her into women’s liberation. She wants to release the day’s tension. It’s dark and late, so why can’t she express her love for self?
She has a lust for life, seeking more, needing more, wanting more, but who can give it to her?

Where can she turn to fulfill her desires? This great book, her secret friend hidden in the dresser and favorite wine always appear to come in handy. Looks can be deceiving and nothing compares to that of actual great company, true intellectual stimulation and a good stiff…drink.

So how does she cure this epidemic because eventually late nights alone with the book become redundant? The answer is within soul searching after certain fulfilled self-indulged pleasure.

Settling for less is what got her here in the first place, so she spends long nights alone. After so long, the nights eventually become longer, her favorite wine finishes quicker and the book’s pleasant ending comes faster.

Although the thought of self pleasure brings out the affectionate face, the face of relief, the face of climax, the same face finally determines “I don’t want to do THIS alone anymore.”

So to deal, she stays busy, stays active and keeps a clear, focused mindset. That is until that lonely instant again when the new guy walks by giving her a second notice. Lonesome, she questions whether to strike or fall back?

Smarter from the last acquaintance, she has the will power, time, and knowledge to do the right thing by figuring out her new found options first before digressing to tigress mode.
She figures the key to solving her epidemic this time around is to not play games, be aware of her feelings and decipher whether the new guy is a reliable source of emotional stability for her.

She has to make sure this new guy has had his play time before her and is now ready to put in work with a true partner.

To be honest, the perfect cure to the epidemic is for her to take things slow with someone new, and realize her worth before she just gets it in with any ole particular guy. She finally learns that there are no substitutes and that her book is not a good look, because ultimately she is STILL settling.
- ISH

Hair Models for ASC..

It's no secret, my photography takes me all over the place including in front of the lens from time to time. The other day was no exception when I gotta call from Jeremy Harris to become a model for his clipper hair cutting class. You gotta love the trusty Andis T-Liner clippers.

What's great is Jeremy already cuts my hair, so of course I was more then honored to have him teach others how to fade, line, and taper it up using me as the model!

The cool thing was I originally was supposed to come in for only a line up but ended up getting a whole fresh cut which was even better for expanding the class's knowledge base and the best was for me getting a fresh cut to stay stunting!

Teaching this class truly shows Jeremy's versatility because it allowed him to show the students how to cut all types of hair. And By Jeremy having the knowledge to be able to cut my dread locs a year ago, as well as curly hair, 360 degree waves, straight hair, Mohawks and everything in between on a day to day basis just emphasizes the versatility. Jeremy is pretty talented, I mean at least in my opinion.

*sidenote obviously I couldn't take pictures of myself so NO, you can't see me modeling! But my cut was ON point! ha ha ha...

Little did I know, the irony of the day was that I wasn't the only model in the class either. DJ Sid Vicious and Jason Gregory of San Diego Downtown News were also on hand to get a cut while modeling for the class as well. I did however have to grab the camera and snap some shots of those two!

Anyway, I think I can do this modeling thing, I like the perks! ha...

Random Night of GoGos and GaGas..

So the other night on my random tour of the Gaslamp, I came across the most random party ever in which I just happened to have my camera so I had no choice but to capture this.

The first part of the night was pretty cool because my very good friends and favorite GoGo dancers were holding auditions to add new GoGo dancers to their awesome team. Of course that was pretty cool but SOOO random.

I know Lisa Kai, Janelle (J*Neezy) and Betzy B, know how shake their groove thing, so sooner or later I'm gonna eventually have to check out their newest members of the GoGo team...

...And then later on in the evening is when things really got funky!!! After the audition, I happened to stumble onto this GaGa for Lady Gaga party, where fans dressed up like Lady Gaga...Enough said about that!

I will say, I know some people love Lady GaGa and truthfully, I actually dig most of her catchy little tunes as well.

I also know her style is definitely off the meter and a bit exotic to say the least but when you're a true fan like some of these photos CLEARLY show, most times they tend to accept that artist for their style, music and lifestyle.

Anyway, check out some of these photos from the GaGa for Lady GaGa party held at Belo the other night.