There have been many times in my life when I’ve created something with so much passion that I’ve thought, “This is it. This is what will put me on the map.” And I deliver my work to find that it doesn’t. And it doesn’t feel good.

This isn’t a unique feeling. I’m sure so many before me and so many today feel the exact same way. When good work, passionate work, falls flat to the masses. People chalk it up to trends, or algorithms, or whatever, but I genuinely believe it’s just luck. Dumb f*cking luck. And I’m going to keep tossing my pennies into the well and hope one day I’ll have enough luck to make it.

This concept was a collaboration by me and Kali Krepline (@kalikmua) and inspired by one of the greatest makeup artists of all @jordanliberty.

The thing with success is that I don’t really want it all to myself. I’ve found that sharing it with those around me is what truly brings me joy. Thats why I called my creative studio, James Has Friends. Because its success is brought on by more than just me, but by the people who collaborate with me.

I want to thanks Mark Young (@itsmarkyoung) and Martina Gomez (@tinaxgomez) for modeling in this project for me. You both are incredible.

Photographer & Creative Director: James Barton

Retoucher: James Barton

Models: Mark Young & Martina Gomez

MUA: Kali Krepline

Tools: Photoshop & Lightroom

Camera: Canon Rebel T7i 

Lens: Canon 85mm f/1.2 L II USM

Lighting: Godox TT600, Orange Gels