Seattle Photographer Daniel Berman | Bellingham, WA | (206) 387-3767 daniel@bermanphotos.com

Internet addiction for the Daily Telegraph of London

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, editorial work, news, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on June 7, 2013

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Last month, I got a call to shoot a story about an internet addiction treatment center, one of the first of its kind, for the Daily Telegraph of London. It was my second assignment for them; previously I did a story about medical marijuana patients in Washington.

After a thirty minute drive down bucolic country roads, I arrived at 9 a.m. sharp for what was supposed to be the start of the group’s morning meeting.

They had already begun, and as they described what they were hopeful for in the coming day, it became clear it was now my turn. What, really, was I hopeful for? Feeling visibly caught off-guard, I tried to explain that I was hopeful to get to know them, that it would be beautiful out — that I might get the chance to tell their stories. The residents didn’t owe me anything, but they were very welcoming. And unreserved. I didn’t want to parachute in and claim to know anything about what they are going through — so I just tried to sit, and listen, and shoot sparingly, only when the moment really felt significant.

Based in Fall City, Wash. not far from Microsoft headquarters, the reStart treatment program is three to six-months long and helps enrollees, who are overwhelming 18-24 and male, replace their unhealthy activities with physical fitness, human relationships and newfound intrapersonal skills. The residents live in a new and spacious home bordered by tall trees, plush lawns, a tree-house turned therapy room and a climbing wall. But for all the amenities, the hot-tub and the alike, this is serious business. The people in the program that I met spoke about their behavior, and what it cost them, what it did to their lives, in an identical manner and gravity as those with any other kind of serious addiction.

I met people who had been in the program for months, and others who had been there for less than a week. All had harrowing stories to share. Like Isaac, who lost a scholarship to American University in Washington, D.C. because his internet gaming had become so out of control, he no longer attended classes or went to work as a math tutor. And Mark, who spent days locked in his bedroom playing internet video games. He had lost his job, and was not going to be able to make rent — and on the day he was to move into a homeless shelter, his parents gave him the intervention that brought him to reStart.

Ultimately, being there and hearing each of the residents’ stories even gave me pause. We live in this digital age, where you can barely even pay your bills or get customer service without a computer — where navigating means entering point a to point b into Google. I can’t imagine trying to do my job without the technology I rely on. Driving away to my next job, I felt guilty turning my phone back on. I realized just how much the day had affected me. The phone began buzzing violently as a stream of alerts, texts, emails and notifications flooded the screen. Of course, I realized, I had to check them.

Stairs lead to the private resident of Cozette Rae, the clinical director and cofounder of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Stairs lead to the private resident of Cozette Rae, the clinical director and cofounder of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

"For about five weeks, I didn't leave my apartment. I didn't see the light of day. I gained 40 pounds. I had 132 missed calls," said Isaac Vaisberg, 21, from Washington, D.C., who played the computer game World of Warcraft to the point where he quit attending classes at American University and lost his job tutoring students in math. "The community I didn't have outside, I could build in the online world. While I was gaming I was happy and the second I got off I thought 'what do I have out there?' " Vaisberg is three months into the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

“For about five weeks, I didn’t leave my apartment. I didn’t see the light of day. I gained 40 pounds. I had 132 missed calls,” said Isaac Vaisberg, 21, from Washington, D.C., who played the computer game World of Warcraft to the point where he quit attending classes at American University and lost his job tutoring students in math. “The community I didn’t have outside, I could build in the online world. While I was gaming I was happy and the second I got off I thought ‘what do I have out there?’ ” Vaisberg is three months into the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Books sit in the living room of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Books sit in the living room of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

"It got to the point where I wasn't paying rent, spending 18 hours a day at the computer gaming," said Mark Browning, 19, of Boulder, Colorado. "I was about to go to a homeless shelter and, that day, my parents gave me an intervention." The former University of Colorado-Boulder student has spent about six months in the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Now he plays indoor soccer on the weekends, commutes by bike to his 30 to 40-hours-per-week job in Fall City, sings in a choir and hangs out with new friends he has made. "The social stuff takes a while to come back," he said. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

“It got to the point where I wasn’t paying rent, spending 18 hours a day at the computer gaming,” said Mark Browning, 19, of Boulder, Colorado. “I was about to go to a homeless shelter and, that day, my parents gave me an intervention.” The former University of Colorado-Boulder student has spent about six months in the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Now he plays indoor soccer on the weekends, commutes by bike to his 30 to 40-hours-per-week job in Fall City, sings in a choir and hangs out with new friends he has made. “The social stuff takes a while to come back,” he said. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Just one week into the program, Adam Tuttle, 18, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sits after a morning meeting at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Just one week into the program, Adam Tuttle, 18, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, sits after a morning meeting at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

A sign displays a message written by a client in the living room of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

A sign displays a message written by a client in the living room of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

A sign at the front entrance of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Clients may have cellphones without internet access, and may use the computer provided at the center for up to two hours per day for school or work-related activities, though their sessions are monitored through an internet site they check in and out of. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

A sign at the front entrance of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Clients may have cellphones without internet access, and may use the computer provided at the center for up to two hours per day for school or work-related activities, though their sessions are monitored through an internet site they check in and out of. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Clients Carlos Bustelo, 23, center, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, watches as Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado, prepares a meal around lunchtime at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Sukle was able to obtain an internship as a prep cook at a the Fall City Roadhouse in town. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Clients Carlos Bustelo, 23, center, from San Juan, Puerto Rico, watches as Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado, prepares a meal around lunchtime at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. Sukle was able to obtain an internship as a prep cook at a the Fall City Roadhouse in town. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

"I just want my friends back home to be proud of me," said Adam Tuttle, 18, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as he practices the piano at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

“I just want my friends back home to be proud of me,” said Adam Tuttle, 18, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, as he practices the piano at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Dakota, an Australian Shepherd, is a live-in therapy dog at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Dakota, an Australian Shepherd, is a live-in therapy dog at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

The reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA is located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

The reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA is located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado climbs the outdoor bouldering wall at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado climbs the outdoor bouldering wall at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Clients Isaac Vaisberg, 21, left, and Mark Browning, 19, walk around at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Clients Isaac Vaisberg, 21, left, and Mark Browning, 19, walk around at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado, hangs out in the garage-turned-gym area of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Chris Sukle, 20, of Castle Rock, Colorado, hangs out in the garage-turned-gym area of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Just about two weeks in, client Robby Hardy, 20, of Mukilteo, Washington, left, participates in a communications skills-building exercise with Adam Tuttle, 18, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, about one week in, as therapist Linda Reed looks on at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

Just about two weeks in, client Robby Hardy, 20, of Mukilteo, Washington, left, participates in a communications skills-building exercise with Adam Tuttle, 18, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, about one week in, as therapist Linda Reed looks on at the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA, located about 25 miles (41km) southeast of Seattle Tuesday May 7. The three to six-month program, the first of its kind in the United States, works to help men and women over 18 suffering from problematic internet, video game and technology use by teaching positive lifestyle changes in a serene, rural environment surrounded by nature. Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

"It's as if we are standing on a ledge and see a tsunami coming and we're yelling 'hey gotta be careful,' and the rumble is so loud our voices are drowned out," said Cozette Rae, the clinical director and cofounder of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA. "You have to manage your use or your use will manage you." Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

“It’s as if we are standing on a ledge and see a tsunami coming and we’re yelling ‘hey gotta be careful,’ and the rumble is so loud our voices are drowned out,” said Cozette Rae, the clinical director and cofounder of the reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery program at Heavensfield Retreat Center in Fall City, WA. “You have to manage your use or your use will manage you.” Photo by Daniel Berman for the Daily Telegraph of London.

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May Day protests Seattle | Seattle editorial photographer

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, news, Occupy Seattle, personal work, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on May 2, 2013

Tonight was just about the craziest night I have ever documented. Police were well-prepared for protestors connected to May Day events here in Seattle, and the expected violence got underway pretty early in the evening. It was incredibly intense to be in the middle of this developing news story, as smoke grenades were going off and police were shouting at everyone to “Get back,” as they pushed at the crowd with their bikes. Just as I was walking all over the city with the crowd and protestors and media, it was all I could do to just keep moving, and trying to keep my head on a swivel. My big fear going in was that an anarchist might try and grab my camera or assault me, as happened last year to other media shooters, and so atleast I was fortunate in that regard. All in all, a damn crazy night. Even if it was nice to see the 20 photojournalists from around Seattle doing great work all afternoon. And an enormous thank you to Matt Mills McKnight, Erika Schultz and Ted S. Warren for loaning me some cards tonight when I realized I left my card wallet in the car with the laptop!

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Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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Snoop Lion performs in Denver 4/19

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham visual journalist, editorial work, news, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, seattle medical marijuana photos, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, washington state medical marijuana by bermanphotos on April 20, 2013

I got into Denver at 10:30am Friday after leaving my house at well before 5 a.m. Seattle time to cover 4/20 weekend in the Mile-High City for Northwest Leaf. One crazy event I never thought I would get to shoot would be a smoker’s VIP party featuring none other than Snoop Lion. Making the event even more historic, the fact that Amendment 64 passed in Colorado, legalizing recreational use of marijuana. Washington state and Colorado are the first states to do so.

After a bit of back and forth to get the credentials squared away, I was lead into the beautiful Fillmore Auditorium. Soon, hundreds of medical Cannabis patients and recreational enthusiasts from across the country streamed in, having paid hundreds for access to the concert and film screening. They settled in and took a seat to watch Snoop’s new documentary, Reincarnated. The film explores Jamaica, rasta and Snoop’s work to make an authentic reggae album, and was pretty entertaining, from the glimpses I caught during the evening. Many of the attendees were smoking pot, passing joints and blunts from row to row. Sharing is caring.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Bryan Stoutenberg and Caiti Beckwith of Ann Arbor, MI smoke up before Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Bryan Stoutenberg and Caiti Beckwith of Ann Arbor, MI smoke up before Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening. "Your state legislators deserve a street named after them for legalizing marijuana," Snoop told the crowd.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening. “Your state legislators deserve a street named after them for legalizing marijuana,” Snoop told the crowd.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening. "Your state legislators deserve a street named after them for legalizing marijuana," Snoop told the crowd.

Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening. “Your state legislators deserve a street named after them for legalizing marijuana,” Snoop told the crowd.

High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening, and he wasted little time smoking from his trophy.

High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening, and he wasted little time smoking from his trophy.

With two blunts in-hand, Snoop Lion picks up a Cannabis-infused brownie thrown onto the stage. "How you about to throw something up here with a bite out of it?" he joked.

With two blunts in-hand, Snoop Lion picks up a Cannabis-infused brownie thrown onto the stage. “How you about to throw something up here with a bite out of it?” he joked.

Bags of Cannabis, joints and blunts are seen after being thrown on stage as Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Bags of Cannabis, joints and blunts are seen after being thrown on stage as Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Smoke fills The Fillmore Auditorium as Snoop Lion performs Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Smoke fills The Fillmore Auditorium as Snoop Lion performs Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend celebrations at the High Times Medical Cannabis Cup. High Times gave Snoop Lion a lifetime achievement award during the raucous, smoke-filled evening.

Balloons are dropped from the ceiling as the clock strikes midnight and 4/20 was officially welcomed.

Balloons are dropped from the ceiling as the clock strikes midnight and 4/20 was officially welcomed.

Balloons are dropped from the ceiling as the clock strikes midnight and 4/20 was officially welcomed.

Balloons are dropped from the ceiling as the clock strikes midnight and 4/20 was officially welcomed.

Snoop Lion threw pre-rolled blunts into the crowd.

Snoop Lion threw pre-rolled blunts into the crowd.

Ricky Powell from Omaha, Neb. watches as Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend. "I feel like I'm a part of history right now," Powell said.

Ricky Powell from Omaha, Neb. watches as Snoop Lion performs at The Fillmore Auditorium Friday April 19 in Denver to kick off 4/20 weekend. “I feel like I’m a part of history right now,” Powell said.

As the clock struck midnight and 4/19 became 4/20 (the much-vaunted marijuana smoker’s holiday), a new year’s eve worthynumber of balloons fell from the ceiling and the party raged on. Today’s 50k+ strong celebrations in the shadow of the Colorado state Capitol should be even more interesting to cover.

Daniel

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APAD Front 4/15/13 — Seattle editorial photographer

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, news, personal work, portraits, PR, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on April 15, 2013

APhotoADay.org is an amazing community of photographers from all backgrounds who share their daily photographs. It’s a chance to get feedback on new work and projects, or to compare notes on topics like freelancing. Every day, one of the thousands of pictures shared on the discussion list previously is displayed on the front page of the website. And today, one of my favorite pictures from BunnyCon was featured, and that just kind of makes my day. Don’t forget to browse the archives, it’s full of stunning work.

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Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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BunnyCon Seattle 2013 photos | Seattle editorial photographer

Posted in assignment work, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, news, personal work, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on March 31, 2013

We are blessed, here in the Northwest, to have an abundance of events that unite everyday people around something silly. On Saturday March 30 in Seattle, dozens dressed like bunnies for BunnyCon Seattle 2013 and went on a pub crawl around downtown. They started off their journey in Pioneer Square, wandered over to Fado Irish Pub, (literally) hopped next door to Contour, then surprised people visiting Pike Place Market, drank in the sun on the roof of the Hard Rock Café, flash mobbed the anime convention Sakura-Con happening nearby at the Washington State Convention Center and ended the night with drinks back at the Alibi Room. I followed along on their furry journey on the nicest day yet of spring, and it was an absolute blast. I don’t think I have heard quite so many dirty rabbit jokes, which I will leave to your imagination.

Nora Robertson embraces her boyfriend, Rusty McClellan, at Fado Irish Pub, as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Nora Robertson embraces her boyfriend, Rusty McClellan, at Fado Irish Pub, as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Sam Trout gets his face painted at Fado Irish Pub as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Sam Trout gets his face painted at Fado Irish Pub as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Contour on 1st Avenue.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Contour on 1st Avenue.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Contour on 1st Avenue.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Contour on 1st Avenue.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Harbor Steps for a group photo.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013, which included a stop at Harbor Steps for a group photo.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

It's time for the dozens dressed like bunnies to continue on their cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

It’s time for the dozens dressed like bunnies to continue on their cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Not all were in on the joke as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Not all were in on the joke as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013.

Regular patrons at the Hard Rock Café mixed with those dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Regular patrons at the Hard Rock Café mixed with those dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at Sakura-Con at the Washington State Convention Center.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at Sakura-Con at the Washington State Convention Center.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at Sakura-Con at the Washington State Convention Center.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at Sakura-Con at the Washington State Convention Center.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at SakuraCon at the Washington State Convention Center.

Dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Some parted ways to flash mob at SakuraCon at the Washington State Convention Center.

A pair of bunny ears was stuck to the infamous Pike Place Market Gum Wall, as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

A pair of bunny ears was stuck to the infamous Pike Place Market Gum Wall, as dozens dressed like bunnies for a cross-town pub crawl during Bunnycon 2013 in Seattle Saturday March 30, 2013. Daniel Berman 2013

Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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Guns Across America Rally at Washington state Capitol in Olympia | Gun owner portraits | Seattle editorial photographer

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, editorial work, gun rally photos, news, Olympia, personal work, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, Seattle news photographer, Seattle photojournalist, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on January 20, 2013

I had no idea what to expect when I made the long, early morning drive to Olympia on Saturday for the Guns Across America rally. I knew this is would be an important event to document given current events and the incredible fervor surrounding gun rights in this country.

I decided to focus on making portraits in front of a portable studio setup of some of the 1,500 people to attend the event. About half of the people I asked to photograph were interested and allowed me to do so, the rest rebuffed me, mostly citing their privacy and concerns of how the images might be used. I understood. That is all part of the environment these gun owners live in, and I respected their wishes and moved on. Still, I enjoyed the opportunity to meet and chat with passionate people involved in something they care about and believe deeply in.

A gun supporter raises their gun through the passenger window while heading down Capitol Way as approximately 1,500 gun owners and enthusiasts attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

A gun supporter raises their gun through the passenger window while heading down Capitol Way as approximately 1,500 gun owners and enthusiasts attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Former NFL player Clint Didier addresses some of the 1,500 gun owners and enthusiasts attending the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Didier told the crowd they should bury food, resources, ham radios and everything you will need to survive independently in an uncertain future. "This president is not my president," he said. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Former NFL player Clint Didier addresses some of the 1,500 gun owners and enthusiasts attending the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Didier told the crowd they should bury food, resources, ham radios and everything you will need to survive independently in an uncertain future. “This president is not my president,” he said. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

About 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

About 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Joining a boisterous crowd, Jonathan Swezey, Angela Wilcox, Olivia Perry, 10, Sydney Perry, 13, Abigale Haynie, 13, and Ellie May Haynie, 10, cheer on honking cars driving on Capitol Way past the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. About 1,500 people attended the event, to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Joining a boisterous crowd, Jonathan Swezey, Angela Wilcox, Olivia Perry, 10, Sydney Perry, 13, Abigale Haynie, 13, and Ellie May Haynie, 10, cheer on honking cars driving on Capitol Way past the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. About 1,500 people attended the event, to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

About 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

About 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Kris Roadruck, of Olympia, sits with his AR-15 and stepbrother Kris Reeves, of Seattle, near the end of the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "This is a bigger crowd than I expected, but I've spent time in the military so I'm used to being around this many guns," Roadruck said. "I think showing up says it all." Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Kris Roadruck, of Olympia, sits with his AR-15 and stepbrother Kris Reeves, of Seattle, near the end of the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “This is a bigger crowd than I expected, but I’ve spent time in the military so I’m used to being around this many guns,” Roadruck said. “I think showing up says it all.” Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"I just think that the 1st and 2nd Amendments are equally important," said Matt Richardson, of Sumner. The Navy professor of philosophy and ethics was one of about 1,500 people to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "I hope we change the laws as they affect mental illness," Richardson said. "But 99.9% of Americans who own guns do so legally and they should be left alone." Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“I just think that the 1st and 2nd Amendments are equally important,” said Matt Richardson, of Sumner. The Navy professor of philosophy and ethics was one of about 1,500 people to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “I hope we change the laws as they affect mental illness,” Richardson said. “But 99.9% of Americans who own guns do so legally and they should be left alone.” Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"I'm here because this was a chance for the people, the law-abiding citizens who don't have much of a voice, to have their voice heard," said Seth Guyer, 23, one of about 1,500 people to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“I’m here because this was a chance for the people, the law-abiding citizens who don’t have much of a voice, to have their voice heard,” said Seth Guyer, 23, one of about 1,500 people to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Carrie Mann and her husband, Craig, of Belfair, were two of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Carrie brought her 380 Millenium Taurus .380 ACP Pistol, and Craig brought his .357 S&W Magnum. "We just support open carry laws and want to support the rights of this state's constitution and our country's constitution," said Craig, a member of the Washington state Constitutional Party. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Carrie Mann and her husband, Craig, of Belfair, were two of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Carrie brought her 380 Millenium Taurus .380 ACP Pistol, and Craig brought his .357 S&W Magnum. “We just support open carry laws and want to support the rights of this state’s constitution and our country’s constitution,” said Craig, a member of the Washington state Constitutional Party. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Craig Mann, of Belfair, was one of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Craig brought his .357 S&W Magnum. "D.C. is handing down something that doesn't agree with Washington, and we want to apply pressure to the state of Washington to preserve state's rights," said Mann, a member of the Washington state Constitutional Party. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Craig Mann, of Belfair, was one of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Craig brought his .357 S&W Magnum. “D.C. is handing down something that doesn’t agree with Washington, and we want to apply pressure to the state of Washington to preserve state’s rights,” said Mann, a member of the Washington state Constitutional Party. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"They say no one needs an AR-15, but I needed one to protect myself from overly aggressive poachers on a camping trip last year," said Darcy Rohde, of Federal Way, who holstered her boyfriend's handgun during the rally. "Our government is making hasty decisions and we should not be spending money we don't have." Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“They say no one needs an AR-15, but I needed one to protect myself from overly aggressive poachers on a camping trip last year,” said Darcy Rohde, of Federal Way, who holstered her boyfriend’s handgun during the rally. “Our government is making hasty decisions and we should not be spending money we don’t have.” Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"I just want people to know that our gun rights are important," said Kirk Parker, of Tacoma, during the Guns Across America rally that brought about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "I liked what our state Constitution had to say on the matter," he said, of the sign he brought. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“I just want people to know that our gun rights are important,” said Kirk Parker, of Tacoma, during the Guns Across America rally that brought about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “I liked what our state Constitution had to say on the matter,” he said, of the sign he brought. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"I was in Vietnam," said Rudy Pries, of Mossy Rock, "and I watched what happens when people lose their guns; whenever people lost what they had to fight with they lost their freedom." Pries brought along his 1100 12-guage shotgun to the Guns Across America rally, which drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "Sometimes you feel like your alone in the world," Pries said. "Then you come to something like this and it does you right." Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“I was in Vietnam,” said Rudy Pries, of Mossy Rock, “and I watched what happens when people lose their guns; whenever people lost what they had to fight with they lost their freedom.” Pries brought along his 1100 12-guage shotgun to the Guns Across America rally, which drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “Sometimes you feel like your alone in the world,” Pries said. “Then you come to something like this and it does you right.” Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"The 2nd Amendment is why I am here," said Marc Hokoana, 25, who brought his AR-15 to the Guns Across America rally that drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "It's important to have this exposure and for the public to see people with guns that don't fit the stereotype of old white racists who own guns," he said. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“The 2nd Amendment is why I am here,” said Marc Hokoana, 25, who brought his AR-15 to the Guns Across America rally that drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “It’s important to have this exposure and for the public to see people with guns that don’t fit the stereotype of old white racists who own guns,” he said. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"There are a lot of politicians who don't know handguns," said Lily Hokoana, 25, carrying a Glock 26 9mm pistol, as approximately 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“There are a lot of politicians who don’t know handguns,” said Lily Hokoana, 25, carrying a Glock 26 9mm pistol, as approximately 1,500 gun owners and supporters attended the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. The organization held events at capitol buildings in many states to show support for the 2nd Amendment and opposition to new gun control measures. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"We just wanted to stand in solidarity with people who share our same belief system regarding the 2nd Amendment," said Cathleen Lombard, of Puyallup, while holding the .357 S&W Magnum she received as a 50th birthday gift from her husband, David, three years ago. The Lombards were two of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“We just wanted to stand in solidarity with people who share our same belief system regarding the 2nd Amendment,” said Cathleen Lombard, of Puyallup, while holding the .357 S&W Magnum she received as a 50th birthday gift from her husband, David, three years ago. The Lombards were two of about 1,500 gun owners and supporters to attend the Guns Across America rally at the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"I own guns for my enjoyment, for my protection and for the protection of our liberty," said Gary Ehrheart, of Anacortes, wearing a constitution shirt he paid $2.99 for at a local Value Village thrift store recently. The Guns Across America rally drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“I own guns for my enjoyment, for my protection and for the protection of our liberty,” said Gary Ehrheart, of Anacortes, wearing a constitution shirt he paid $2.99 for at a local Value Village thrift store recently. The Guns Across America rally drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Gary Ehrheart, of Anacortes, speaks with his daughter Ellamina, 4, while attending the Guns Across America rally that drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. "I own guns for my enjoyment, for my protection and for the protection of our liberty," Ehrheart said while wearing a constitution shirt he paid $2.99 for at a local Value Village thrift store recently. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Gary Ehrheart, of Anacortes, speaks with his daughter Ellamina, 4, while attending the Guns Across America rally that drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. “I own guns for my enjoyment, for my protection and for the protection of our liberty,” Ehrheart said while wearing a constitution shirt he paid $2.99 for at a local Value Village thrift store recently. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"They are going to try and take these things away, but they prevent evil on a scale that people cannot even comprehend," said Jesse Maxwell, of Yakima, who works for the gun supply store, Tactical Supply. In his backpack, Maxwell brought along a .416 Barrett, a 30-pound rifle that can propel bullets up to 3,050 feet per second, according to the manufacturer's website. The Guns Across America rally drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“They are going to try and take these things away, but they prevent evil on a scale that people cannot even comprehend,” said Jesse Maxwell, of Yakima, who works for the gun supply store, Tactical Supply. In his backpack, Maxwell brought along a .416 Barrett, a 30-pound rifle that can propel bullets up to 3,050 feet per second, according to the manufacturer’s website. The Guns Across America rally drew about 1,500 people to the Washington State Capitol in Olympia Saturday, Jan. 19, 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

"My friends and I walked into the Capitol today with our signs and our AR-15s and someone told us we can't have protest signs inside," remarked Tim Carson, of Spokane. "I told her, 'Umm, we have semi-automatics on us.' That's liberalism for you." Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

“My friends and I walked into the Capitol today with our signs and our AR-15s and someone told us we can’t have protest signs inside,” remarked Tim Carson, of Spokane. “I told her, ‘Umm, we have semi-automatics on us.’ That’s liberalism for you.” Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

The photos are available for license.

Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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Washington legalizes marijuana photos — Seattle Dec. 6

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, news, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, seattle medical marijuana photos, Seattle visual journalist, Washington, washington state medical marijuana by bermanphotos on December 6, 2012

Just after midnight, Washington legalized possession of up to an ounce of marijuana for recreational use for those over 21 under Initiative 502, which took effect Thursday, Dec. 6. 2012. A public celebration hailed as Legalization Day in Washington State attracted about a hundred people to toke up at Seattle Center’s International Fountain Thursday evening, after a similar event at 12:01 a.m. near the Space Needle. Public smoking is still against the law, and marijuana remains counter to federal law. Colorado passed a similar measure.

All photos available for licensing at http://seattlephotographer.photoshelter.com/gallery/Washington-legalizes-marijuana-photos/G0000..eNFpzfHOc/C0000fzMTw_NAP.c

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Legalization Day in Washington State photos:

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12:01 AM celebration

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Tulalip Tribe member Dennis Boon

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, editorial work, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, seattle medical marijuana photos, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on November 8, 2012

I had a recent assignment for Northwest Leaf to photograph Tulalip Tribe member Dennis Boon, who uses medical marijuana to control his seizures. The seizures were debilitating, and used to leave him out of commission and unable to attend school or work. The only thing that helps this condition, Dennis said, is medical marijuana, and he hasn’t had a seizure in years. But his Tribe does not recognize legal medicinal marijuana, even though the state does. Last year, local authorities acting on a tip that a felon was living at his home, confiscated his authorization to have cannabis and took his collection of pipes. He’s still fighting the possession and paraphernalia charges, he said. In the mean time, he said he knows that this is the only thing that works and he will continue to use it — whether the Tribe recognizes his state status remains unclear. Check out this compelling story by Ray Flores.

Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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Cannabis attorney Hilary Bricken

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, portraits, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, seattle medical marijuana photos, Washington by bermanphotos on November 8, 2012

I had an assignment for Northwest Leaf last month to photograph Cannabis attorney Hilary Bricken. Hilary has been tenaciously representing businesses embarking down this legal gray area, and her track record proves it. The shoot was to accompanying a piece in the magazine on “best practices” for those in the medical marijuana field, and what the reality of city enforcement looks like out there.

Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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City redevelopment for Cityvision Magazine | Seattle editorial photographer

Posted in assignment work, Bellingham editorial photographer, Bellingham environmental portraits, Bellingham visual journalist, Downtown Seattle, editorial work, portraits, PR, Seattle editorial photographer, Seattle environmental portraits, Seattle visual journalist, Washington by bermanphotos on August 29, 2012
Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists' work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Storefronts director Matthew Richter, artist Julia Haack and Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists’ work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Storefronts director Matthew Richter, artist Julia Haack and Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists' work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis, Storefronts director Matthew RIchter, and artist Julia Haack, stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists’ work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis, Storefronts director Matthew RIchter, and artist Julia Haack, stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists' work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Storefronts director Matthew Richter, artist Julia Haack and Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Auburn, Wash. has worked to revitalize its downtown through a program called Storefronts, where local artists’ work is displayed in unoccupied commercial retail spaces, such as the creations of Julia Haack. L-R, Storefronts director Matthew Richter, artist Julia Haack and Auburn Mayor Pete Lewis stand outside a space at 1st and Main Street across from City Hall Tuesday, July 2nd. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Had an assignment last month to photograph two stories on city redevelopment projects for Cityvision Magazine. The first shoot was a last-minute one on Auburn, Washington’s efforts to redevelop unused commercial spaces into art galleries. A sweet idea, especially when you have art like Julia Haack’s to fill the rooms. They looked great from the street, too. Wish we could have had more sunshine to really make the art pop but alas, it was a gusty overcast day. You can tell the wind is blowing if you look at her hair, but all things considered, I was happy with the way the shoot went down. And we did it in under the time allotted which is always great!

I was very pleased with tearsheets that came from these shoots! This was one of my first full-page magazine portraits, so that’s pretty special. The second shoot was way north in Mount Vernon, Wash., to photograph Mayor Jill Boudreau and Public Works Director Esco Bell. The city is redeveloping the promenade into a cool multiuse commercial space and making the waterfront a more attractive place for the community to hang out. I liked the view of the bridge and Skagit River — not everyday you get to have those in an environmental portrait.

Mt. Vernon, Wash. Public Works Director Esco Bell and Mayor Jill Boudreau have been essential to a flood protection plan that transform a parking lot running along the Skagit River into a pedestrian promenade maintaining safety and allowing for expanded business redevelopment in the area. Officials have completed the first of three phases scheduled to be completed by late 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Mt. Vernon, Wash. Public Works Director Esco Bell and Mayor Jill Boudreau have been essential to a flood protection plan that transform a parking lot running along the Skagit River into a pedestrian promenade maintaining safety and allowing for expanded business redevelopment in the area. Officials have completed the first of three phases scheduled to be completed by late 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.comMt. Vernon, Wash. Public Works Director Esco Bell and Mayor Jill Boudreau have been essential to a flood protection plan that transform a parking lot running along the Skagit River into a pedestrian promenade maintaining safety and allowing for expanded business redevelopment in the area. Officials have completed the first of three phases scheduled to be completed by late 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.comMt. Vernon, Wash. Public Works Director Esco Bell and Mayor Jill Boudreau have been essential to a flood protection plan that transform a parking lot running along the Skagit River into a pedestrian promenade maintaining safety and allowing for expanded business redevelopment in the area. Officials have completed the first of three phases scheduled to be completed by late 2013. Photo by Daniel Berman/www.bermanphotos.com

Thanks for looking,

Daniel

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