Visual Perspectives

he complete series includes photographs of local artists Bradley Copeland, Chandler Williams, Harley Van Hyning, Maxine Orange, and Sean Murphy; ballerina Kate Beliaeva; contemporary dancer Rico Dias Garcia; and violinist Jessica Heit. Oja’s goal was to create with these local visionaries collaboratively to truly capture the unique essence of each individual in their photos. “I want to give to the people who show up to shoot with me,” he says. “I want a beautiful end product that truly captures their spirit.”

So, like Oja, perhaps we all need to explore a different outlook on the world around us. What sets us apart and highlights our uniqueness? How do we want to be remembered or captured in an image? Although those questions often require ample time for exploration, Oja knows that we all shine a little differently under the water. Sometimes, we just need to be reminded of our true gifts and beauty through a new lens and fresh perspective.

PROJECT: VIE Magazine Headquarters, Santa Rosa Beach, Florida

ARCHITECT: Gerald Burwell