About

Photo by Tiffany Cornwell

Hello. I’m Dave Lawrence, hobbyist photographer and creative professional based in Jackson, Michigan.

To me, photography is an excuse for adventure.

It’s a way to make art that’s based in real life. I take an introspective approach by capturing the quiet moments that often go unnoticed. Through the camera lens, I see the beauty in the ordinary and reflect on the stories that unfold in everyday settings. Much of my work focuses on my local community, such as my portrait projects Artists In Jackson and Musicians In Jackson.

This blog is a collection of my thoughts on photography, creativity, and hobbies that interest me. It’s mostly about making photos, working on projects, and creating things to put out into the world, but it’s also about anything else that comes up.

My photography is mainly a hobby, but I am available for portraits and special events. Hire me and bring your creative idea to life.

Social Media

Gear Dave Uses

I’m a Canon guy. Always have been. Here’s a video on how I think about my camera strategy. 

Digital Cameras

  • Canon 5D (mark 1) – still my go-to for most projects. Nothing beats the look and feel of the photos.
  • Canon 6D (mark 1) – my pro-for-hire camera, used for weddings or portraits.
  • Canon EOS M2 – Canon’s second mirrorless camera, a replacement for my beloved Canon EOS M. This is my take-everywhere, throw-it-in-the-front-seat everyday carry. Watch my review on YouTube.
  • Canon EOS M6 (mark 1) – the new kid on the block. My travel, video, and family camera: small, portable, mirrorless. Just what I need. Watch my review on YouTube.

Digital Lenses

  • Canon EF: 20mm f/2, 28mm f/1.8, 40mm f/2.8, 50mm f/1.8, 85mm f/1.8, 100mm f/2.8 macro, 200mm f/2.8
  • Canon M: 22mm f/2, 32mm f/1.4, and a 56mm f/1.4 Viltrox M lens.
  • Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 zoom lens

Film Cameras

  • Canon Kiss 300 – A plastic-fantastic EOS film camera.
  • Canon AE-1 – mostly paired with the 50mm and 28mm.
  • Canonet QL17 – Small rangefinder.
  • Olympus Trip – Another small rangefinder with almost-fixed focusing.
  • Bronica ETRsi medium format

And my iPhone is always with me.

(Portrait by Tiffany Marie Photography)