Good & Bad Days...Find Your Happiness

There were a lot of Superbowl commercials that I could have posted, but this particular Carmax commercial just reminds me that we should all find happiness in something and cherish it.

I believe in order to have a fulfilling and meaningful life you should find something that makes you happy and build a foundation around it.

There will obviously be good and bad days but the point is to find your happiness which will lead you to the profound and successful prosperity we all dream to achieve.

Just Be You...

Lebron James has made history...yet again by silencing the same critics that pointed fingers and judged him for living his life earlier this past summer.

At one point in time we have been guilty of judging friends and foes for living their life. On the other hand, we have been judged for living our lives as well. The truth is we all make mistakes, decisions and choices that others may deem to be not suitable for our lives. In reality, each person has to walk their own path and in the end only you can decide what is best for you.

In King James's latest Nike commercial, he pokes fun at the public opinion of what others think he should do now that he has made his decision to be traded to the Miami Heat. Some suggestions LBJ discussed included acting, and playing the bad guy.

This commercial stands out to me personally, because I have been dealing with some issues myself. As an artist building a network/business and being an all around sociable person, I constantly wonder what people really think about me.

As I watch this commercial, I realize two things: One, I can't help but realize other people's perception of me will always vary regardless of what I do or don't do. I really have no control of what others think of me, so I might as well be happy being me.

Two, wondering what others think of you is really a rhetorical question because its rare that someone will actually tell you their true thoughts. You will usually be left wondering what's up.

Either way its a losing battle, and useless to care because you'll never know the real answer. I can only imagine being in Lebron's shoes, but it seems he has come to the same realization hence making this commercial.

To be honest, there is always going to be someone saying something so like Rihanna says "just live ya life!"

Anyway, check out the latest King LBJ video and as always, leave your thoughts.

Lebron James - Nike Rise Commercial

Ebony Magazine 65 Year Anniversary

Although some people may not realize it, within the entertainment industry, the phrase "making it" really is just the tip of the iceberg.

The truth is most individuals that "make it", be it artists or exposure outlets, are finished before they start and if you are one of the so-called lucky ones to become "discovered", establishing yourself as a successful entity within your field is a whole another task in itself.

For a magazine, it becomes even more of a challenge to remain successful, credible and relavant because there are more artists than there are publications, so the industry as a whole looks to that media outlet for exposure, nurturing and development.

Building credibility in a world where everyone has an agenda is like finding a needle in a haystack; hard to come by. After all it is the media that broadcasts to the world what is supposedly trendy and acceptable, so of course certain parties will try to persuade said publications to cater their particular message to the masses.

Ebony Magazine has obviously done something right. This year Ebony celebrates 65 years in business. With a strong credible base and background, the national magazine has lasted through the test of time all while bridging the generation gap by staying relative to current situations and remembering the past.

By Mary J. Blige reshooting the epic Diana Ross Ebony cover for this month's issue, its evident the magazine definitely has proven its monument to keeping the bridge strong.

Ebony plans to reshoot Regina King, Omar Epps and Yolanda Adams along with others in the up coming months. I personally can't wait to see Samuel L. Jackson's reshoot of the Dr. Martin Luther King cover.

Anyway, check out the video from behind the scenes of some of the Ebony magazine 65th anniversary cover shoots...

Ebony Magazine Anniversary

*source: www.thesocietyonline.biz

Jay-Z On The Cover Of Forbes

I'm just going to say it. Jay-Z never ceases to amaze me. He is the epitome of an artist having a dream, setting a goal and always believing in them selves until they reach that goal.

Jay-Z appears on the latest cover of Forbes magazine. This is the same person that could not get a record deal, and was turned down by all the record labels he went to, so of course he made his own.

Basically, Shawn Corey Carter a.k.a Jay-Z has showed us if you want to get things done, you have to take matters in your own hands.

The reality is that you can have whatever you want if you believe and never take no for an answer. Of course Jay-Z already proved he believed that theory by marrying Beyonce.

9 02 10: Greatness

Today's date just happens to be the most famous zip code in the world. September 2, 2010 otherwise known as 9-02-10 (i.e. Beverly Hills, CA 90210).

I don't know about you, but days like this make me want to go be great.

The reason being so you can have an actual stamp that documents the day you did something positive.

The good thing about this date is, anyone with big dreams usually tends to see Beverly Hills in their future some type of way so its a great way to relate your trials and tribulations with your success.

Whether it is to live in the infamous zip code or at least be able to shop on Rodeo Drive with no worries.

I think we should all use this day as a motivational tool to do something bigger than the usual routine.

Or to dig deeper, use this day as the official day you started your path to greatness and once you achieve success you can look back and say, I consciously started my path on 9-02-10!

After all, the definition of insanity is doing the same things repeatedly expecting different results. So go do something out of the ordinary and make sure you reach for greatness while you do it!

Just like Drake raps in his song Greatness, "I dream big, no false hope."



Stop Selling Dreams, and Live Your Dreams!

Drake - Greatness

P5...

Before I say anything, I have to say good things don't necessarily come to those who wait, but great things definitely come to those who have P5!

Passion, persistence, patience, perseverance and being proactive.

Many of those that know me, might know I am #teamblackberry and have been for some time.

At one point in time on a whim, I actually emailed blackberry.com's "contact us" page in order to CREATE a promotional job for myself in Southern California for how I represent my "crackberry" to the fullest.

Thinking I would never get a response, I kept on doing my day to day business, and to my surprise I did eventually get a response email saying in a nutshell, thanks but move to Canada*, fill out the online application and don't call us we will call you. HA!

At that time, for me to even getting any response email was a dream come true.

Fast forward 3 years later with the explosion of social networking taking over, I of course was all about blasting to everyone in my network that #teamblackberry was the way to go.

I guess I didn't have to go to Canada, because Canada came to me, via Internet.

I was honored to receive an invite to test out new blackberry software before it hit the masses. SCORE! Think big, work efficiently, and keep it pushing is my motto for accomplishing dreams.

Well, this next feat was a dream come true for sure. After a few months of testing different software and giving my personal feedback, I received another email to test out the NEWEST Blackberry on the market, The Blackberry Torch.

Research In Motion the company that makes Blackberry Devices has provided me with a new Blackberry to Test out and believe me this product is indeed the truth, literally.

I have been using a Blackberry since Operating System 4.1 and now to be honored with the privilege of testing out the newest system 6.0 and the newest mobile device is amazing.

For those that are not tech savvy, imagine eating shrimp a la carte every day, loving it to the fullest and then some magic voice saying, "here you go, have some some vegetables, Steak and your favorite beverage."

You would probably jump for joy! Well, that's what RIM providing 6.0 does for me.

Anyway, everyday I continue to realize, no matter how big or small, if you have a passion, don't give up on your dreams and continue to strive for achievement.

Your hard work and dedication will eventually pay off.

Now, since we are talking about following dreams, how about RIM or Blackberry hire Ivan S. Harris Photography to photograph one of those Fancy Blackberry release parties hosted by Drake?

One can only dream right? Well, with my new Torch provided by RIM, I'm definitely onto a good start.

Blackberry Torch Release Party Red Carpet Hosted By Drake

*RIM is a Canadian based company
*video courtesy of www.crackberry.com

My Blackberry Torch Pics posted on Facebook Mobile

8-9-10...Be Great And Do Something Epic!!

Today August 9, 2010 (8-9-10) is a once in a lifetime date, so I am instantly inspired to want to do something great.

In my search for greatness, I decided to surf the websites of great people.

My first stop led me to Diddy's blog. Of course there would be a new Nike ad for Michael Jordan entitled Maybe It's My Fault.

As you all may know, while I surf, edit and work on my computer, I have to listen to music, so I always skim through the new releases on Mondays.

While skimming through the new music and surfing the web, I picked Fat Joe to have the SSD stand out song of the week featuring R. Kelly called How Did We Get Here.

This is my I'm Focused song and this song should also serve as an inspiration to people wanting to accomplish their goals.

A lot of times we make mistakes and feel we can never begin, continue on with or complete our goals. I am here to say, this is the day to change that mentality and go be epic.

It starts with having a dream, not selling a dream or giving false hope to someone, but actually delivering through on a thought process by acting on your passion to want to be great.

If you have a goal, don't let anyone tell you can't do it. As R. Kelly sings, "How did we get here from the middle of no where?" It means, keep pushing forward, don't let negative energy hold you back and believe in yourself.

I think we should all find some sort of inspiration from this day.

When we look back in the past two years we should find inspiration, whether its by Drew Brees winning the Superbowl and being able to meet President Obama, or even President Obama becoming the first Black President.

Maybe you can gain inspiration from Diddy having a billboard in Times Square. Or maybe your inspiration could come from Michael Jordan becoming the greatest player in Basketball to now becoming an NBA team owner.

Or if you are human like all of us and make mistakes or become shunned upon for personal matters, then you may find inspiration from R. Kelly.

By seeing Kellz focus his energy on his music and leave the negavity behind, he has once again started to gain notoriety for what made him great, which is good music.

I feel that anyone deserves a second chance as long as they work hard and focus their energy in a positive matter.

The moral of this story is, everyone should find some inspiration from this day to become great!

Fat Joe - How Did We Get Here Featuring R. Kelly

Kanye West - Power (Official Video)

No one man should have all that power, unless they are talented, gifted and have God on their side, then honestly all things are possible.

If no one else believed in Kanye West, Kanye West believed in Kanye West and thats all the motivation he needed to succeed. What people don't realize is, when becoming an artist, you have to believe in yourself or you will never reach the promised land.

You can say what you want to about Kanye, but you have to admit he has the drive, determination, perseverance and confidence to be able to accomplish his goals.

The thing that I like most is that he was humble enough to admit he made a mistake, seek help and then come back more focused, determined and on track and in tune with what made him great, which is the great music.

The way I see it, we are all human and all make mistakes, but we also all deserve a second chance as long as we work hard to show and prove that we definitely deserve a second chance.

Personally, I feel Kanye is on the right track to becoming a better person and this new material shows the same.

Kanye West - Portrait Of Power

I Just Want To Be Happy...

If its true that everything happens for a reason, then its definitely true that you should live life to the fullest. You should also live with no regrets because life is too short.

A lot of times we worry about what people will think about our actions so we hesitate to live the way we want to.

The truth is, these same people that "judge" you only know what they see from the outside looking in, so how can they really tell you how to live your life when they don't know your whole story.

The phrase "walk in my shoes before you tell me where you think I should step" rings of truth to me as of late.

After being sick and actually having to take off from work for the past two weeks, I realize a few things. One, you can't and shouldn't count on anyone to make you happy. (Family not included).

You can't and shouldn't count on anyone to be there for you, and you definitely can't and shouldn't count on anyone to make you happy.

You and you alone are responsible for your happiness. Don't get me wrong its great if you do have someone to count on, but you have to remember people have their own lives and situations, so they may not be for you right when you need them. Then what will you do?

When people say, she made me mad, or he makes me happy, that's a figment of their imagination and a fallacy. The truth is you need to be happy with yourself or you will feel hollow from striving from other people's happiness.

Its like a topical ointment, it provides temporary relief but eventually it will rub off leaving you needing another fix. You need fulfillment from the inside.

Some people ask me why do I go out all of the time, or why am I so active within the social scene, and honestly the answer is because I know what it means to lay in a hospital bed weeks at time not being able to do things for yourself because of pain.

So every day that I have a chance to live, interact and entertain myself amongst energetic, lively people is another day for me to rejoice and be thankful for being healthy.

Whenever I need to seek out my happiness and find my own inner soul searching journey to completion, I turn to Mary J. Blige's song Be Happy. It is the truth. "I Just Wanna Be Happy, But The Answer Lies In Me...Life is too short to be trying to play some games."

Happiness comes from growth and in order to grow you need to be aware. Awareness comes from maturity. And with all that, maturity brings happiness because you realize you have grown and learned from your mistakes.

This cycle of life is a continuous process and until we understand this concept we will always be searching for the topical oinment, not the actual cure.

If none of this made sense, the easiest way I can explain is to let go of your troubles, find your own happiness and don't let anyone take THAT away from you.

Mary J. Blige - Be Happy

The Big Time...Big Dreams Realized

Dreams are only fulfilled when you wake up and go get them. I am proud to say that I believe if you really want something you can have it. I have seen people realize their dreams over and over again first hand.

Yes, if you didn't know, this is the exact reason I like Drake so much because he believed in himself and strived for perfection even with the odds stacked against him.

He is a rapper that's Jewish, from Toronto! Hey, anything is possible if you believe!

Its just patience and perseverance that people lack in why they don't reach the mountain top. The journey doesn't just stop once you make it either.

Its a hard road once you get there because even after you make it to the promised land, now the cost of living goes up.

But the trials and tribulations are definitely worth it if you can truly look back and say you set a goal for yourself, looked straight ahead, didn't let anyone hinder your progression and accomplished it.

For once in this struggle, journey and up and down pattern called being an artist, there is always a good story that happens IF you choose to remain positive throughout the experience.

I know it sounds bad, but someone always has it worse then you and just think, how many people are making a living or even a single dollar for that matter, from what they truly love?

One of my colleagues Dominique Laurina has done the inevitable. A few years ago she moved to LA to finish what she started in San Diego which was make the big time for modeling.

I remember I shot this G-Star Raw fashion show she was in while still living in San Diego when she told me she was moving. Awesome!

Now, of course me knowing my friend, she will be humble and tell you that she hasn't made it and she's still working and blah blah blah. Forget that!!! If you work hard like she does, enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Anyway, how many models do YOU know being featured in a fortune 500 ad? And she loves Apple too. HA!

Check her out on facebook and tell her "ISH TOLD ME to say congrats!"

Although she's a big deal so if she doesn't know you, she may not add you for privacy reasons. What!!!? I'm just saying!

You know I Love you Dominique!

If Dominique isn't a positive motivational factor for artists everywhere, we might as well ALL quit and go back to working at the drive-thru permanently.

I refuse that! So from me personally, thanks to Dominique for inspiring myself and artists all over! Lets Get it!

Oh and Dominique, could you please update your site for the people every once in a while please!

Or at least for me. Thanks.

7:07pm Self Motivation Freestyle...

To be honest, I feel like http://www.stopsellingdreams.com/ not only speaks for Ivan S. Harris the photographer, but every artist going through the trials and tribulations searching for success from that goal or dream they seek to reach.

Every once in a while, the speed bumps of life will slow you down. When that happens, its human nature for you to start second-guessing yourself.

The difference between truly successful people and those that never find the pot of gold is successful people take risks, fail, and get back up to dust themselves off and try again.

Success is a subjective state of mind because it is based off the individuals conceptual abyss of what it means to be successful.

The sad part is most people have a materialistic, media based, warped view of success including me. The truth is you shouldn't base the idea of success solely from a monetary value because there are people making millions doing something they absolutely hate doing.

Success is a state of true happiness. If you can make a penny from doing something you love and continue striving for greatness without giving up, that is the only key to open the door to the path of success.

Personally, I feel like to be happy, you have to do something that touches others while making you feel good inside as well.

You also have to think if someone wants to pay you, that means that client respects your art enough to say its valuable to them. Take that as a compliment.

Truthfully, doing something you love and getting paid anything for it is a blessing because some people have dreams that either never get started or give up on before the miracle happens.

The reason I am even writing this is because deep inside yourself (myself) you may feel you are not successful but from the outside looking in you could be viewed as great.

I had a long conversation with my cousin and we both went to college together talking about our dreams. He made me realize I am doing what I said I wanted to do and to not stop at all no matter what.

It's important to remember not to compare yourself to anyone elses progress. You don't know what they have been through to get where they are and the grass could truly be greener on the other side.

As long as you continue to strive for greatness and don't let anyone hinder you from your goals at hand, you will get to where you are going. I believe that wholeheartedly.

I haven't written a piece in a long time and I was inspired by a new freestyle from Drake... I know you're probably saying, "Oh no, not this guy Drake again." As I said before, I relate to Drake's music.

This piece is as Jay-Z would say, just my thoughts man, right or wrong, just what I was feeling at the time." And in my heart, I have a voice that must be heard and a talent that must be exposed.

Drake - 9am Freestyle in Dallas

Anyway,

7:07 Pm Self Motivation...

Set a goal for yourself, don't let anyone tell you different. Make sure you keep it moving when the haters try to tip it.

The bandwagon that is, charge more now you're significant. When your stock rises everyone will try to jump ship.

No one at the bottom now they want to ride for free but didn't help you build the arc so now they pay a fee. Where were they at before?

Remember they thought you were small timin', so for now keep grinding until you're dying. There's always better so you might as well keep trying.

Hold on for dear life, just know your soul's limit. It's only smart to continue if your heart stays in it.

Don't look back just keep pushing, move it forward, positive is your only gimmick. Stand true to your morals never get stuck in the dark. This art vs commerce is a battle very strong.

Remember the people that inspired you keep that in mind it won't take you long. Success will find you, so be prepared to coast, its not work if you do what you absolutely love the most.

Take a look back at your timeline and tell me you want to quit? That would be dumb, your resume is already way too thick.

It's too late to turn back now, so what are you going to do?

Pack up your bags and go back to being regular? That job as a teller doesn't sound to stellar. So get back on your horse and ride it till the end. You were meant to be here, now show the world no fear. And tell that doubting Thomas to shine your shoes and pick up those bags in the rear. -I.$.H.

Just a little self motivation for everyone. I write to inspire myself as well as other that choose to follow their dreams.

By the way, remind me to tell you the story about the picture of the Hollywood sign that I climbed the mountain to take. Hmmmm, dedication is a motha...

*Drake - 9Am freestyle in Dallas courtesy of http://www.worldstarhiphop.com/

*Thanks To Cousin Mike Knight for the talk.

*Thanks to Cheryl for taking me to see the sign.

O Let's Do It!!!

Good day kids! It's story time. Today were going to talk about motivation. Can you say motivation?

Boys and girls, I'm going to start off with a quote from a hip hop verse from 1995. (cough, cough) And I quote, "Ten years from now we'll still be on top, Yo, I thought I told you that we won't stop" end quote.

Okay I have to believe everyone including myself may have thought that it was just a line from a verse, but Diddy actually believed the words he rapped in "Mo Money, Mo Problems".

If you fast forward 10 years later from that 1995 verse, it would be 2005. Hmmmm, in 2005, if you think of Diddy, still on top, still all in the videos, all in the songs, dancing, diddy bopping to his own beat, literally...

If I knew then what I know now, I think I might have took my chances on the executive producer telling me to wear shiny suits, be in my songs, and jump all in my videos.

Fast forward 5 MORE years and now its present day 2010. Ummmmm, STILL ALL in the videos, ALL in the songs...and still on top.

At the time in 1995, it sounded great, but 15 years later I don't think anybody wants to be on Deathrow anymore. Sorry Suge Knight.

Let's talk more about motivation. If you really believe something in your heart, and continue to follow your goals no matter what anyone says, watching Diddy you have to believe it can be achieved.

This guy has been told no a million times and still said, "You know what, I'm going to do it anyway."

People said he wouldn't be successful after Notorious B.I.G. passed away. Wrong.

Doubters said he couldn't finish a New York marathon. False.

Haters said he couldn't be an actor. Hmmm, I'll be going to see Get Him To The Greek.

Hate him or love him, you have to respect Diddy's motivation, determination and perseverance.

My I'm focused song for today is "O Let's Do It Remix featuring of course Diddy.

If you really want to do something, don't let ANYONE not even Diddy tell you you can't.

And if you ever get in a slump, just repeat after me...

Stop SELLING dreams, start Believing in your abilities and of course...

HEEEEY, Ohhhh Let's Do It!!!!!

Waka Flocka Flame - O Let's Do It Remix featuring Diddy, Gucci Mane & Rick Ross

Ciara - Ride featuring Ludacris

I was ALMOST at a loss of words when I saw this video simply because if anyone has ever said Ciara fell off, I think she might have literally punched them in the face, stepped on top of them with the 6's and pop and locked her way to her rightful position with this home run.

I personally have been a Ciara fan since "Goodies", so to see new, refined, but still CiCi material just gets me amped.

Being a hobbyist, yet seasoned dancer myself, I always enjoy a good routine. CiCi doesn't hold back either. By watching her get those steps right on point makes me wanna tweet DJ Ironic or DJ BirdyBird on Twitter right now to have my song ready for when I step in the club!

Ciara's Ride video proves that sometimes you may get lost and caught up in the "hype" but if you ever happen to doubt yourself, go back to what made you "YOU", in essence your roots and everything will fall in place.

In my opinion, by being raw, edgy and in yo FACE, This video is actually amazing to me.

What I have learned is to not ponder on what others think of you, and let your BASIC INSTINCTS and heart lead you to where you need to be.

Ciara - Ride featuring Ludacris Video

Shannon Elizabeth & Iyaz At Hardrock

You know you're at the popping spot of the night when you see NFL probowlers, Hollywood celebrities and chart topping artists performing in the San Diego Gaslamp.

What's interesting is people have this preset idea about San Diego being a laid back, beach community, but at times the SOCAL element can really come out to play.

Recently, Shannon Elizabeth, (American Pie, That 70's Show) was hanging out with NFL players, Kassim Osgood, Kirk Morrison and Vincent Jackson to name a few for a night on the town.

Actually, Osgood called upon his celebrity friends to celebrate his last week in San Diego as a Charger after recently being signed to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The night also engaged in a live performance from Iyaz performing his hit Like A Melody to go along with the festivities.

Now how about this little addition. Shannon was recently in Vegas for an appearance which happened to be my good friend @thatdudejuelz's birthday, but I couldn't make it do to me being sick that weekend.

I was really bummed about not being able to go to Vegas. I guess God knew this and brought the party to me. Also, this time around it was another good friend of mine @kalvinr's birthday so everything worked out.

I got to meet Shannon, I celebrated another friend's birthday and I was also working this event so I got paid to party!

The moral of the story is everything happens for a reason so keep working towards your goals because you never know when the opportunity you seek will fall in your lap.

Photos from Hardrock Here...

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..."

They are who we thought they are!!!

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

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...

*Bobby Reyes of www.eventvibe.com

*www.Shootnorton.com

*Devin and Bradley of www.discoversd.com

*John Audley of Be Water Photo

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...

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.

The New Boyz Have Everybody Jerkin...

My scope of hip-hop flows throughout the realization that timbs, baggy jeans, black hoodies, button-ups, Air Jordan jerseys and shoes, first down puffy coats as well as anything else that Jay-Z, Busta Rhymes, Diddy, Nas, The L.O.X., Snoop Dogg and the rest of the 90's bred crew said was cool.

To be honest and for the life of me, now as an adult I can't fathom this new school era of hip-hop. Skinny jeans, tight fitted shirts, bright Colored neon-esk hoodies, wearing sneakers OTHER than a pair of Jordans is just something too far off.

To me, this new so-called hip-hop lifestyle is preposterous and I can't help but think that 2Pac, Biggie Smalls, Big L and Easy E would rot in their grave if they saw what hip-hop has become.

I have to throw an SSD flag on myself and everyone else that feels this way. When I think back, I know that in my heart I was a b-boy, so growing up, of course I used to pop and lock, break dance, kid n play, Tom & Jerry and all the other hip hop dances straight to the beat. (Honestly, if the DJ is REALLY good, I still won't hesitate to break out my trusty two-step.)

As I have grown into adulthood, my maturity tells me that hip-hop's main principles were founded on dancing, being a rebel against the times, and staying true to yourself by saying and doing what you feel!

Clearly, this is what the new school era of hip-hop is doing. Ahhh, wait a minute?? That sounds familiar, I think this is the same mentality the New Boyz has embraced taking a page out of the old school book and making it their own.

I'm also smart enough to know that we were all kids once (some of you still are now) so I have to acknowledge what the kids like these days if I can truly call myself a hip-hop head.

I mean, my scope of hip hop is different from that of the older purists that listened to Rakim, Afrika Bambaataa, Kurtis Blow and the rest of the 80's pioneer crew. I remember how they used to rap and how they looked at my generation like we were the weird ones!

The sign of the times always changes but seems to stay the same. The older generation will always criticize the new generation saying its not THE right way to do something... It happens all the time.

The old school Jazz heads say Blues singers "wasn't rocking it right." Soul singers used to say "in my day we used to SAAANG" and these new R&B singers ain't rocking it right.

Taking this knowledge, I'm gonna stop hating and embrace the new school as it is STILL a part of me, just as I am a part of the old school.

Real talk, I hate when my dad says my music isn't real music, it is real music because its music to me. Just like the new school music is music because it is MUSIC to them.

The New Boyz sure are new school in every aspect with the skinny jeans, bright colors and new dances such as "jerkin".

Either way there is something about an artist performing live that makes you either respect them more or throw their CD out with the trash.

At first, I was like I can't get with these new kids but after seeing them perform live, I definitely respect their hustle. They put on a great show and have energy that portrays passion and love for their perspective of hip-hop.

After all, it is a new era of hip-hop, but its still my favorite genre so I have to embrace it.

Not to mention, Jay-Z already said...We Off That and On To The Next so let's keep it moving!

(sidenote #2) I think it is funny that now, I am the old school head saying, Y'ALL ain't rocking it right...

...but honestly, you are, so keep doing your thang, new school.

Now, will I personally go out and buy some skinny jeans and yellow hoodie? Umm No! I'm 90's hip-hop style for life baby! Long Live, Pac, Jay, Nas & Big! lol

See New Boyz Photos...HERE!