A High School, A Book & A Decade

This shoot just turned 10 years old. 

Back in 2015, I was invited back to my former high school to explore and photograph. Medicine Hat High School would soon be undergoing a modernization upgrade that would see a significant part of the old high school demolished. 

This was one of those projects that I took on out of my own curiosity and connection to the place, but the shoot turned lucrative when it became the basis for my photo book, "MHHS As It Was" in 2017. Not only did we sell over 1000 copies in pre-sale that year, but I was then hired to shoot the architectural images of the modernized high school in 2018. 

It just goes to show that some of those "free" shoots can pay dividends if you see the potential in owning the work in the long term. It also has me thinking I'm overdue to give that photo book thing another crack at some point lol. 

Good memories.

Larry Edmunds Bookshop in Hollywood, California

With its roots stretching back to 1938, the Larry Edmunds Bookshop in Hollywood, California is a historical repository of photos, scripts, posters, and books spanning all things entertainment. This store is unique not only because it's Hollywood Boulevard's last surviving bookshop, but because it's one of those authentic spaces that has welcomed artists, authors, and fans alike with direct links to the film industry. Larry Edmunds Bookshop is as classic as the content that fills the shop's shelves. What else can I say? I do love an old bookstore.  

 

New Artwork at River Bee Books

In news that surprises no one, I have a real soft spot for unique, local businesses (particularly those in beautifully restored downtown buildings) who also happen to be supporters of my original "Hometown Series" in Medicine Hat, Alberta.

Over the last few months I've delivered a collection of custom framed canvases to Bridget at River Bee Books with this shot overlooking the cliffs ending up in the new shop scheduled to open this spring. I do love a good bookstore, and can't wait to see all this hardwork come together for their grand opening. Check out those tin ceilings!

The Last Bookstore in Los Angeles, California

Located in downtown Los Angeles, California, the Last Bookstore is a giant new and used book store that banked on the idea that book shopping could be instagrammable. From inside a tunnel of vintage books to walls of book-inspired art installations, the Last Bookstore is unique in that it combines the thrill of thrifting with the curated aesthetic of a downtown gallery. Visiting this gem wasn't just fun - it was actually a great place to find some unique local resources.  

The Adolphus Hotel in Dallas, Texas

Opened in 1912, the Adolphus Hotel in downtown Dallas, Texas is an unmistakable landmark and a luxury hotel fit for royalty - quite literally, in fact, Queen Elizabeth II stayed here in 1991. 

While there are a lot of interesting places to stay in Dallas, the Adolphus is the kind of historic property that immediately piques your curiosity the moment you enter the lobby. 

Built by Adolphus Busch, the founder of the Anheuser-Busch company, the Adolphus was always meant to grab attention. It was Dallas' first grand hotel and for nearly a decade was the tallest building in Texas. From its stunning woodwork and rich, warm tones throughout, there's no mistaking that you're somewhere special when exploring this century old icon. 

And if you're looking for more entertainment options, rumour has it there may even be the ghost of a jilted bride hanging out on the 19th floor of the hotel. We never crossed paths though.

Whatever the reason for your visit, like I was, you're sure to appreciate the modern twists on traditional luxury. There's no denying it's an incredible space to wander, chillout, and grab a drink. The Adolphus was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.