Solo: Reflections on Sports, Storytelling, and Purpose
The Weight of the Work and the Power of Reflection
When I tell you I have a lot going on, I mean I have a lot going on. Amidst the chaos of the daily grind, I recently took a moment to revisit a blog I wrote last month. It was a story that left me full of emotion at the time, and as I poured over the words again, I felt every bit of that weight. For a father and creator balancing a dozen different responsibilities, these moments of reflection aren't just a luxury—they are what keep the work authentic.
If you have ever wondered who I am - this is me. Say hello.
The Evolution: From the Diamond to the Digital Page
I was never meant to write stories. For the longest time, I was a baseball player, and I was convinced that sports were going to be my only ticket. But then I stopped playing. There was no ticket, and life became adulthood. Now, I’ve entered my 40s as a dad and a husband. I have since expanded on those roles by graduating college, starting a business, putting myself out there more, and working to uplift others through my writing and photography. My world is much bigger now than the diamond ever was.
Smashing the Door: Real Over "Plastic"
As my business grows, I find myself wanting to smash the door down on the status quo of this industry. We’ve all seen it: the endless stream of "sunset photo shoots" and photographers who rely on one-click presets to do the heavy lifting. That isn't me. I am about control and premium editing that respects the subject. I’m not interested in creating "plastic," impossibly smooth skin that erases a person’s character. I want the texture, the grit, and the truth. If the work doesn't feel real, it doesn't feel like mine.
Catherine Harju stands by a Steeple at Pacific Lutherines’ Track Facility
The One-to-One Model: Breaking Barriers
This drive for authenticity is also why I’m committed to breaking down barriers for individuals from marginalized communities. I believe everyone deserves to have their story told with professional excellence, regardless of their background.
To make this a reality, I utilize a one-to-one model. My commercial and brand bookings aren't just about the bottom line; they subsidize these vital shoots, allowing me to offer my time and skills to those who have been traditionally sidelined by the industry. It’s about using the "whirlwind" of my career to create space for others to shine.
While I reject the same old photos of warm light and sunsets - I will not completely ignore it. Take advantage of natural light and shadows is an essential part of being a photographer.
The Purpose of the Word: Connection and Opportunity
Somehow, someway, I started writing. I think I just had something to say and wanted to get it off my chest—and to my surprise, people actually read it. These blogs have allowed me to build transparency and connect with people in ways I didn't expect. That connection gave me the professional courage to reach out to Thurston Talk about submitting work for them.
Right now, I am deep in the midst of a proposal that I hope lands me a contract. It would help me financially, of course, but more importantly, it would solidify my purpose and propel me into some unknown waters that actually sound exciting. Only time will tell if it comes to fruition, but I’m ready for the leap.
Harbor Seals working on their tan at the Billy Frank Jr Nisqually Wildlife Refuge
Interlude: Health, Vitals, and Checking the Engine
Before the high-octane pace of the upcoming season hits, I needed to check the engine. I went to the doctor yesterday; my blood pressure is good, and she said my heart and lungs sound great. I’m starting a round of antibiotics now in hopes of finally ridding myself of this sinus thing I’ve had for months. The sun came out over the weekend, and I felt a sudden burst of energy. I’m clearing the decks and getting healthy because the whirlwind is coming.
The Track Season: Shared Nerves and the Human Element
I am counting the days until the spikes are laced up and the pop of a gun is going off. There is no feeling like that—even from my perspective behind the lens. We probably share the same nerves when the starting line goes silent and that moment of quiet nervousness fills the air. I feel it too. I dial in my focus (literally) and ready my finger on the shutter release, anticipating the start gun.
It’s about reconnecting with the athletes I haven’t seen for months—the sprinters and jumpers who have been grinding in the off-season. I love seeing that progress and seeing the parents in the stands cheering on their kids. It’s what makes the long days worth it. The distance runners who I have only been out of range for a few months – I cannot wait to watch you run dizzying laps around a 400m track. I truly miss it.
Aberdeen High School’s standout Junior competing at the Mt. Tahoma Track Festival in 2025
The Solo Creator’s Philosophy: Authentic Coverage vs. Big Media
I’ve been preparing for track season since NXR was on the horizon, and it’s all to bring you the best coverage possible. I’m not a big media outlet or a massive agency; I’m a solo person. Because of that, I try to bridge the gap between the news, the stats, and the rush to get information out. Even when I’m rushing to my laptop to send a photo of a finish, I try not to lose the human element.
I look at guys like Ken Martinez (westcoastxc). When Ken started doing video interviews at the end of races, I saw an instant transformation in his work. He wasn't just a guy with a camera; he suddenly knew the athletes and formed a bond with them. That’s the human element I’m chasing. It’s the realization that bridging the gap between a stat sheet and a meaningful story often starts with something as simple as saying hello.
The Mile City one mile invitational not only saw the whole heat go under 4 minutes, but it was exciting with close proximity racing
The Whirlwind and the Invitation
A whirlwind of work is resting on my shoulders right now, and I am managing it the best I can. When it gets hard, I remind myself: I asked for this. I’m balancing a lot, but the fun stuff starts very soon. Logistically, I have already scratched one race off my calendar—the Oregon Relays—but I will still be covering it from my house the best way I can. I’m staying focused on the finish line.
If you have a look at my calendar and wonder why I am not covering your race, I suggest sending me an email or messaging me on Instagram. I will always consider it, and if my time allows—I’ll be there. The "fun stuff" is just around the corner.
