06/06/2025
Absolutely — here’s another take on the closing line that keeps it clever and genuine, while matching the overall tone of the post:
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Sometimes when you’re digging through old hard drives, you come across a few shots that catch you off guard. I’ve always believed in saving things for rainy days and today felt like one of them.
Back during COVID, I had the chance to be an assistant on a once in a lifetime shoot. Not just for me but for the legacy of Budweiser and Nelly. It was one of those rare moments where history, culture and timing all lined up. The crew was solid and considering everything we were navigating at the time, it made the experience even more meaningful.
While we were setting up shots for the lead photographer, I was using my own camera for test frames. Got the setup approved, swapped gear and this shot must’ve slipped through the cracks. I uploaded it to a hard drive that day and forgot all about it. Just another frame in the middle of a busy shoot. But here I am, years later, pulling it off an old 5D Mark IV memory card I haven’t touched since. Funny how certain moments find their way back to you.
The relationship I’ve had with Nelly over the years is all thanks to a few people who put their neck out for me. No need to name names, they know who they are, and I’ve always been grateful for those doors they opened. From photo shoots to music videos to studio sessions and this moment right here. A true kid from the Lou has to pitch himself sometimes and I’ve never taken that lightly.
Grateful for that day. Grateful for the reminder. Here are a few frames from that chapter. Nelly, the Arch and the kind of timing you can’t plan. Some on film, some digital. All of it around that wild stretch of 2020 when everything felt uncertain but the moments still mattered.
Maybe it’s time for a part two. Different year, same city, same respect. You can find me in….