Season recap South Florida 2020-2021

Hey ya’ll, it’s been quite a year with covid and a whole lot of uncertainty but I was blessed to be able to work through the adversities that have plagued us all and create some fun work for a number of old and new clients throughout the Florida market. Here are a few of my favorite spreads from the Winter 2020-2021 season.

New Ads for Musa Jewelry in Miami

Hello from quarantine in Miami. The weather is hot and humid and the sun is shining. Of course that’s the norm but it’s anything but normal on the streets, schools, restaurants and hotels that move the economy in South Florida but of course we are all going through this unique time together. I wish you all the best health and happiness. Sharing a shoot created just prior to the shutdown to hopefully help distract from some of the dire news. Shot in collaboration with Bobbie van Der Vlugt of Musa Jewelry based in Miami. Bobbie combines here stylist aesthetic and her knowledge of the protective properties of stones and amulets to create jewelry that I just love to wear. Enjoy and be well.

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Musa Jewelry Ad Campaign by Vanessa Rogers Photography

New Mag Covers for the 2020 Season

Hey ya’ll. It’s been a while since my last post. It’s season in the South of Florida while the rest of the country chills out. It’s been a busy season so far with both editorial and commercial work so I’ll share some of the recent covers I shot this year.

February 2020 Naples Illustrated Cover Shoot

February 2020 Naples Illustrated Cover Shoot

November 2020 Naples Illustrated Cover Shoot

November 2020 Naples Illustrated Cover Shoot

Naples Illustrated September 2020 Cover Shoot

Naples Illustrated September 2020 Cover Shoot

Amazing information on Carbohydrates and Ketosis


As you know I’ve been enjoying the Ketogenic lifestyle now for about a year and feel like it’s been really transformative for the way I feel both physically and mentally. This fabulous editorial by Ryan Rodal at HVMN is so informative and clears up so much disinformation I just had to share it. Enjoy and pass it on.

What Are Net Carbs?

Originally published on HVMN by  Ryan Rodal


In recent years, carb counting has become a major point of dietary emphasis. With many low-carb diets such as keto and Atkins becoming more commonplace, it’s crucial to account for carbohydrates properly.



Table of Contents

Let’s Define a Carbohydrate

Net Carbs Explained

Why is Fiber Different?

Insoluble Fiber

Soluble Fiber

What are Sugar Alcohols?

How to Calculate Net Carbs

Net Carbs from Fiber

Net Carbs from Sugar Alcohols

Should You Use Net Carbs?


The problem is, there’s an ongoing debate between whether carbs or “net carbs” should be counted as part of one’s macronutrient profile. While some groups argue total carb count is a more precise measurement, others disagree with this sentiment.


Not all carbohydrates have the same effect from a dietary perspective. While some are more digestible, others tend to pass through the body without being absorbed.


It’s important to understand the differences between carbs and net carbs so that you can determine which form of measurement is most conducive to your lifestyle and goals.


Let’s take a deeper look at various types of carbs and what roles they play within your body.


Let’s Define a Carbohydrate

Before we dive into net carbs, it helps to know what a carb actually is in the first place.


Carbohydrates are an umbrella term for molecules containing carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. There are two main types of carbs found in the foods we eat—simple carbs and complex carbs.



Simple carbs are found mostly in sugary foods and contain only one or two sugar unit molecules which can affect how quickly the food is digested and absorbed. Some examples are fruits and foods containing table sugar, like soda or cookies.


Complex carbs are slower-digesting in nature and contain several sugar units linked together. They are often found in whole grains, starchy vegetables, white and sweet potatoes, carrots, and oats.


While simple and complex carbs can be used as an energy source or stored as fat.


If a person consumes more carbs than needed, the body will convert excess carbs to fat.


There are other types of carbs which are not readily digestible by the body.


Fiber is different from the other two forms of carbohydrates. While it is similar in molecular profile, it does not provide a direct form of energy—it passes through the body without being digested and absorbed into the bloodstream for energy. The main role of fiber is to feed friendly bacteria in the digestive system.


Sugar alcohols also fall under the carbohydrate umbrella. They are typically used as a form of sweetener and contain only half the amount of calories as traditional carbohydrates. They are added to food as a reduced calorie sweetener and as a bulking agent.


Although each of these are considered carbs, the body handles each of them differently. It’s these differences that allow us to think that not all carbs are created equal, and we shouldn’t look at them as all playing the same role without our body.


Net Carbs Explained

Net carbs refers to carbs that are absorbed and processed by the body.


Simple and complex carbs are found in foods we eat. They are broken down in the small intestine and later become used as a source of energy in the body.


Those other types of carbs, such as fibers and sugar alcohols, can’t be broken as easily. 

Because our bodies don’t actually absorb these types of carbs (to use them for energy), many people subtract fibers and sugar alcohols from overall carbohydrate amount.


This is often where debate tends to arise.


While some count every single carb in their diet, others subtract fiber and sugar alcohols because the body does not retain these macronutrients in the same manner.


Keto versions of your favorite foods


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Why is Fiber Different?

Unlike other forms of carbohydrates, fiber is not directly used as a natural fuel source for the body. It passes directly into the colon and can’t be broken down by enzymes in the digestive tract. Because of this, less than half the total carbohydrates from dietary fiber are metabolized to glucose.1


Fiber is best known for its ability to relieve constipation, especially soluble fiber (hello fruit, oatmeal, avocados and broccoli!), but can also provide several other health benefits.



Elevated fiber intake has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer in one study, but as mentioned earlier, this cause and effect action is now being debated among the scientific community.2 Another review looked at 22 publications and found dietary fiber was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease.3


Fiber consumption may be linked to lowering the risk of developing serious diseases.


The FDA Daily Value for fiber (the daily recommended amount) is 25 grams per day based on a 2000 calorie diet.


Even within fiber, there are two main types—insoluble and soluble fiber.


Insoluble Fiber

Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and can help speed the passage of bowel movements thereby preventing constipation. It contains no calories, nor does it spike blood glucose or insulin levels, and isn’t broken down by the gut.4


Insoluble fiber helps keep bowel movements regular and helps maintain a healthy digestive system. It’s typically found in the stalks, skins, and seeds of foods such as whole grains, nuts, and veggies,


Common foods with insoluble fiber include:


  • Beans

  • Whole wheat

  • Bran

  • Potatoes

  • Cauliflower

  • Nuts

  • Green beans


Insoluble fiber is an important part of a healthy diet that can help support several bodily functions.


Soluble Fiber

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is digested by bacteria in the large intestine.


One of the benefits of soluble fiber is its ability to help you feel full (and potentially, this can help you lose weight). A study performed on soluble fiber found that consuming 14g per day was associated with a 10% decrease in energy consumption (less food eaten) and weight loss of 1.9kg over a four month period.5


As soluble fiber goes into your colon, it becomes short-chain fatty acids, which can help improve gut health and reduce inflammation.6 A meta analysis also looked at those with high fiber consumption and found soluble fiber can also help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.7


If you’re on the keto diet, it can sometimes be difficult to find low-carb sources of fiber. Good thing H.V.M.N. has you covered.


Both our MCT Oil Powder and Keto Collagen+ contain a base of acacia fiber, which is rich in soluble fiber. The best part? Both products contain zero net carbs, making them a no-brainer to add to your daily nutrition strategy for a great source of fiber and keto energy.


What are Sugar Alcohols?

Sugar alcohols are processed in a manner similar to fiber—they are not directly absorbed by the body. They’re found naturally in foods and can be used as low calorie sweeteners and bulking agents. Typically, they are used as sugar substitutes that contain about half the amount of calories as regular sugar.


As the name suggests, they’re a hybrid of sugar molecules and alcohol molecules.


Their chemical structure is similar to sugar, and thus have the ability to activate sweet taste receptors on your tongue. That’s part of their allure: sweet taste, far fewer calories.


You will typically find sugar alcohols in foods such as chewing gums, ice creams, frostings, cakes, cookies, candies, as well as some foods that claim to be low in carbs or sugar.


The most common sugar alcohols used today include:


  • Erythritol

  • Isomalt

  • Maltitol

  • Sorbitol

  • Xylitol


Erythritol has the least amount of net carbs. 90% of it is excreted in urine and only 10% enters the colon.8


There are limited studies available on sugar alcohols, but no known studies have shown raised insulin or blood sugar levels as a result.9 Studies have shown, however, that some individuals do not process sugar alcohols well and report excessive gas and sometimes, diarrhea.10 This is because sugar alcohols are fermented by the gut microbiome (fermentation produces gas as a by product) and because they affect the osmolarity within your intestine (they cause excess water to end up in your stool/colon). This response often depends on the amount consumed, so if you’re thinking of adding sugar alcohols to your diet or increasing the amount, do so cautiously.

How to Calculate Net Carbs

If you choose to use net carbs as a basis of your dietary calculations for macronutrients, it will help to make sure you are accurately accounting for them. Net carbs are calculated differently for both fiber and sugar alcohols. Be sure to read nutrition labels closely as “net carbs” are not listed separately.



Net Carbs from Fiber

Calculating net carbs using both carbohydrate and fiber amounts is super simple.


If you are eating whole foods containing fiber, simply subtract the fiber from total carbs to calculate the net carbs.


For example, an apple contains 25g of carbohydrates and 5g of fiber. The result would be 20g of net carbs. This is a little more difficult when consuming those whole foods because they don’t have nutrition labels. But a simple online search should help you give you a pretty accurate estimation.


If you’re consuming foods with a nutrition label, both carbs and fiber should be listed and thus, net carbs easily calculated.


Net Carbs from Sugar Alcohols

In most cases, half the carbs from sugar alcohols can be subtracted from total carbs. For example, if a food contains 8g of sugar alcohols, you can subtract 4g from total carbs to determine net carbs.


One exception to the rule is Erythritol. The carbs from Erythritol can completely be subtracted from total carbs.


Most of the time, you'll be subtracting fiber from carbohydrate amount to determine net carbs. Sugar alcohols are less common, but check nutrition labels to see if what you're eating contains them, and make this part of your calculation when determining net carbs


Should You Use Net Carbs?

People debate about whether counting net carbs provides a more accurate representation compared to total carbs.


Using net carbs will allow for more dietary flexibility because you’re able to eat fiber-rich foods without consuming too many carbohydrates. There are also numerous health benefits associated with fiber consumption; a study performed on individuals who regularly consumed fiber showed improved blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol.8


On the other hand, people on a keto diet may argue against net carbs because the carbohydrate amount you’re consuming may take you out of ketosis. Not all people process fiber the same way—therefore, it's important to understand what works best for your body.


People trying to avoid carbohydrate intake may tend to eat more sugar-free problems, which can lead to other health problems such as weight gain, metabolic disorders, and type-2 diabetes.11


When it comes down to it, using net carbs can be an imperfect science. Using total carbs can help provide a better framework for helping you to stick to your diet. However, if you eat lots of fibrous foods such as vegetables, using net carbs may be the perfect choice for your lifestyle. Or, if you’re on keto, and you find yourself constipated, consuming more fiber might be advantageous. You may have avoided those carbs to stick to your macros, and in the process, avoided fiber as well.

No matter if you choose to use net carbs or not, always make the dietary choices that best fit your individual lifestyle and goals. The best diet will always be the one you can stick to long-term.


The perfect macronutrient calculator for keto


Maintaining balanced macronutrients is a challenge. Subscribe, and we'll send you our easy-to-use macronutrient calculator to track all your food.



Scientific Citations

1.

Wheeler ML, Pi-sunyer FX. Carbohydrate issues: type and amount. J Am Diet Assoc. 2008;108(4 Suppl 1):S34-9.

2.

Kunzmann AT, Coleman HG, Huang WY, Kitahara CM, Cantwell MM, Berndt SI. Dietary fiber intake and risk of colorectal cancer and incident and recurrent adenoma in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015;102(4):881-90.

3.

Threapleton DE, Greenwood DC, Evans CE, et al. Dietary fibre intake and risk of cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2013;347:f6879.

4.

Lattimer JM, Haub MD. Effects of dietary fiber and its components on metabolic health. Nutrients. 2010;2(12):1266-89.

5.

Howarth NC, Saltzman E, Roberts SB. Dietary fiber and weight regulation. Nutr Rev. 2001;59(5):129-39.

6.

Holscher HD. Dietary fiber and prebiotics and the gastrointestinal microbiota. Gut Microbes. 2017;8(2):172-184.

7.

Mcrae MP. Dietary Fiber Intake and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Umbrella Review of Meta-analyses. J Chiropr Med. 2018;17(1):44-53.

8.

Arrigoni E, Brouns F, Amadò R. Human gut microbiota does not ferment erythritol. Br J Nutr. 2005;94(5):643-6.

9.

Hyams JS. Sorbitol intolerance: an unappreciated cause of functional gastrointestinal complaints. Gastroenterology. 1983;84(1):30-3.

10.

Mäkinen KK. Gastrointestinal Disturbances Associated with the Consumption of Sugar Alcohols with Special Consideration of Xylitol: Scientific Review and Instructions for Dentists and Other Health-Care Professionals. Int J Dent. 2016;2016:5967907.

11.

Harpaz D, Yeo LP, Cecchini F, et al. Measuring Artificial Sweeteners Toxicity Using a Bioluminescent Bacterial Panel. Molecules. 2018;23(10)








The Great Out West

Hey everyone, Summer is here and it’s been a very busy spring of travel out west. Commissions in Arizona, weddings in Arizona and Nevada and plans to spend more time this summer in Las Vegas to explore new opportunities. Shout out to my friend and collaborator Roni Fields-Moonen who I’ve known for 13 years and worked with on tons of editorial and advertising commissions for over 10 years. Excited to work with her again this summer. Here are some of my favorite photographs from my spring travels.

Horses at play, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Horses at play, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Alejandro and Cat Shell’s Nuptials in Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat Shell’s Nuptials in Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials in Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials in Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Alejandro and Cat’s Nuptials Sedona, Arizona 2019

Red Rock National Park, Las Vegas Nevada 2019

Red Rock National Park, Las Vegas Nevada 2019

Merrill and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Merrill and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Roni and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Roni and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Merrill and Roni, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Merrill and Roni, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Roni and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Roni and Scout, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Darlene and sunset at home, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Darlene and sunset at home, Las Vegas, Nevada 2019

Hungry Chickens, Las Vegas, Nevada, 2019

Hungry Chickens, Las Vegas, Nevada, 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Tuscon, Arizona 2019

Vanessa Rogers Photographer, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada - Credit Roni Fields-Moonen

Vanessa Rogers Photographer, Valley of Fire, Las Vegas, Nevada - Credit Roni Fields-Moonen

Tracy Mountain Biking on Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado Springs, Colorado 2019

Tracy Mountain Biking on Cheyenne Mountain, Colorado Springs, Colorado 2019

Martha Stewart for Palm Beach Illustrated & New Spring Editorial Covers

Hey all, It’s been a while since my last post and I’m excited to share some of my new work with you. It’s been a busy season in South Florida and we’ve been traveling a good amount of the time and enjoying the beautiful Florida winters with a taste here and there of the cold of winter, just enough to remind us of how good we have it.

I was recently commissioned to photograph Martha Stewart during the SoBE food and wine festival festivities while she was in Palm Beach. She teamed up Clay Conley, Chef/Owner of Buccan, Grato and Imoto and Lindsay Autry, Executive Chef/ Partner at The Regional for an exclusive dinner at The Regional Palm Beach.

Back on the West coast, of Florida that is, we were commissioned to photograph Naples “Leading Ladies” for the April Issue of the Gulf Coast’s Naples Illustrated magazine. Each woman we photographed were a joy to photograph and made my task of lighting and posing that much easier. Styling provided by Philip Douglas Salon of Naples, Art Direction by Loretta Grantham and Assisted by Joe Loverde. Artis Naples formally the Philharmonic Center for Performing Arts of Naples were our gracious hosts and allowed us to take over much of their lovely interior spaces for this portrait assignment. Here is the work.

We were also blessed to have been asked to shoot Jerrilyn & David Hoffman for the February Cover of Naples Illustrated not included here as well as the March cover featuring the indelible Jane Purdy Berger who’s made her mark in more ways than one as well as being tireless advocate for charitable organizations everywhere. Thank you Jane for being so gracious with your time and precious energy.

First up the published copy of our shoot for Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s March 2019 Design Issue from the Faena District on Miami Beach. Hair and Makeup by Shani from Agency Girard, Art Direction by Matthew Kritis and the Vanessa Rogers Photography team.

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography, Art Direction and Wardrobe Styling by Matthew Kritis, Hair and Makeup by Shani of Agency Girard, Model Mirla at Next Models Miami shot on location in the Faena District of Miami Beach Florida

Jane Purdy Berger Philanthropist shot at her home in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine, Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co photographed by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Jane Purdy Berger Philanthropist shot at her home in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine, Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co photographed by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Jane Purdy Berger Philanthropist shot at her home in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine, Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co photographed by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Jane Purdy Berger Philanthropist shot at her home in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine, Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co photographed by Vanessa Rogers Photography

Jennifer Parisi Philanthropist shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Jennifer Parisi Philanthropist shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Mayela Rosales, Executive Vice President and Co-owner, Media Vista Group shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Mayela Rosales, Executive Vice President and Co-owner, Media Vista Group shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Jaclynn Faffer, President and CEO, Naples Senior Center at JFCS shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Jaclynn Faffer, President and CEO, Naples Senior Center at JFCS shot on location at Artis Naples. Photography by Vanessa Rogers Photography. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and Makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Jerri and David Hoffman shot on location at their home in Port Royal, Naples. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Jerri and David Hoffman shot on location at their home in Port Royal, Naples. Art Direction by Loretta Grantham. Hair and makeup by Philip Douglas & Co.

Martha Stewart, Clay Conley, Chef/Owner of Buccan, Grato and Imoto and Lindsay Autry, Executive Chef/ Partner at The Regional Palm Beach.

Martha Stewart, Clay Conley, Chef/Owner of Buccan, Grato and Imoto and Lindsay Autry, Executive Chef/ Partner at The Regional Palm Beach.

Links to talent and team members mentioned in this blog below:

www.mattkritis.com

www.gerardagency.com

www.naplesillustrated.com

www.palmbeachillustrated.com

www.philipdouglas.com

www.lindsayautry.com

www.buccanpalmbeach.com

www.eatregional.com

Stay tuned next month for travel work in the Great American West including Colorado, Nevada and Arizona. Happy Trails.

Faena District Miami Beach Fashion Editorial

Hey all, It’s finally fall and we are busier than ever with plenty of travel on the agenda in the coming weeks and months that I’m very excited about. I’ll share details as they materialize but in the meantime I thought I’d share a fashion shoot I collaborated on with an amazing team including Matthew Kritis our wardrobe stylist and art director www.matthewkritis.com @matthewkritis and the fabulous hair and makeup stylist Shani repped by Agency Gerard Management www.agencygerardmanagement.com @makeupbyshanig, Mirla (model) with Next Management @mirlasousaa and special thanks to my assistant Eric Bandin @ericbandin.

Earrings, Jennybird, Heels, Forever21, Jeans, McQuire, Dress, Delf, Top, Twenty, Jacket, eightdreams

Earrings, Jennybird, Heels, Forever21, Jeans, McQuire, Dress, Delf, Top, Twenty, Jacket, eightdreams

Earrings, Zara, Bag, Fendi, Strap, Fendi, Top, A.L.C., Knit top, Helmut Lang, Skirt, Carolina Herrera, Jacket, Akris Punto, Heels, Forever21

Earrings, Zara, Bag, Fendi, Strap, Fendi, Top, A.L.C., Knit top, Helmut Lang, Skirt, Carolina Herrera, Jacket, Akris Punto, Heels, Forever21

Earrings, Oscar De La Renta, Sunglasses, Linda Farrow, Dress, Givenchy

Earrings, Oscar De La Renta, Sunglasses, Linda Farrow, Dress, Givenchy

Sunglasses, Tom Ford, Belt Bag, Prada, Heels, Manolo Blanik, Top, Emporio Armani, Jacket, Alice + Olivia, Skirt, Akris Punto

Sunglasses, Tom Ford, Belt Bag, Prada, Heels, Manolo Blanik, Top, Emporio Armani, Jacket, Alice + Olivia, Skirt, Akris Punto

Sunglasses, Saint Laurent, Earrings, Zara, Bag, Balenciaga, Top, Derek Lam 10 Crosby, Skirt, Balenciaga, Jacket, Akris

Sunglasses, Saint Laurent, Earrings, Zara, Bag, Balenciaga, Top, Derek Lam 10 Crosby, Skirt, Balenciaga, Jacket, Akris

Bag, Valentino, Sunglasses, Celine, Earrings, Zara, Pants, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Jumper, Akris Punto

Bag, Valentino, Sunglasses, Celine, Earrings, Zara, Pants, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Jumper, Akris Punto

New SUPERMEN Spreads for Fall 2018.

It’s always an honor to photograph the annual SUPERMEN winners from the Gulf Coast for Naples Illustrated Magazine. Each and every one of them are distinguished gentlemen and philanthropists. This is my 6th year shooting this spread and cover and every year get’s a little more interesting. It’s always a challenge to shoot in dark spaces and it’s a rarity that I’m shooting in dark spaces that aren’t exterior shots but a casino will definitely take the cake for unusually lit but unlit venues. I was grateful for the help of many of the staff of the Seminole Immokalee Casino to help this shoot become a success. Thank you to my Assistants Eric Bandin and Natalie Leah, Teri Evans the Editor and Chief of Naples Illustrated, Saks Fifth Avenue for Wardrobe, styling by Alexander Hayes, art direction by Olga Gustine and Jenny Fernandez-Prieto. An amazing team. Here is the result of the teams collaboration.

Congratulations to our Cover Boy Joel Waltzer. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. 2018

Congratulations to our Cover Boy Joel Waltzer. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. 2018

Jim Bloom, Chief of Operations for the Collier County Sherrifs Office. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa …

Jim Bloom, Chief of Operations for the Collier County Sherrifs Office. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography 2018

Patrick O’Connor, Chair of "Do the Right Thing” program. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photogr…

Patrick O’Connor, Chair of "Do the Right Thing” program. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography 2018

Tim Cartwright, Chairman of the Tamiami Angel Funds. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography…

Tim Cartwright, Chairman of the Tamiami Angel Funds. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography 2018

Joel Waltzer, Dermatologist and creator of JaneCAN. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography …

Joel Waltzer, Dermatologist and creator of JaneCAN. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography 2018

Jeffrey Binder Associate Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Roge…

Jeffrey Binder Associate Artistic Director of Gulfshore Playhouse. Wardrobe by Sakes Fifth Avenue, Naples. Styling by Alexander Hayes. Watches provided by Tourneau. Shot on location at the Seminole Immokalee Casino and Resort. copyright Vanessa Rogers Photography 2018

New York City Summer 2018

Had the great pleasure to spend a few weeks of my summer in my old stomping grounds for a few meetings, shoots and most importantly quality time with my oldest and dearest friends. On the way I captured a few shots. I love NYC in the summertime. 

Under the Bridge. Williamsburg Bridge, New York City 2018

Under the Bridge. Williamsburg Bridge, New York City 2018

The Empire State Building from Midtown East. New York City 2018

The Empire State Building from Midtown East. New York City 2018

View of the Brooklyn Bridge from Dumbo House. Brooklyn, NY 2018

View of the Brooklyn Bridge from Dumbo House. Brooklyn, NY 2018

Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Eastside Greenway, Midtown East, New York City 2018

Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Eastside Greenway, Midtown East, New York City 2018

Chinatown, Lower Manhattan, New York 2018

Chinatown, Lower Manhattan, New York 2018

Summer 2018 Travels and Personal Work

It's been a few months since my last blog post, I've just recently returned from nearly a month of traveling for work in New York City and for my annual Rogers Family Reunion in Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado. It's always amazing to be out west surrounded by family and friends in what can only be described truly as god's country. Here is a sampling of some of the photos from this past month of travels. 

Sister's at play. Rocky Mountain National Park / Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Sister's at play. Rocky Mountain National Park / Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Walking into the Sunset. Rocky Mountain National Park / Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Walking into the Sunset. Rocky Mountain National Park / Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Dani and Marley taking in a mindful moment. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin 2018

Dani and Marley taking in a mindful moment. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin 2018

Ageless Memories. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Park 2018

Ageless Memories. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Park 2018

Gem Lake Trail Vista. Rocky Mountain National Park, Gem Lake Trail 2018

Gem Lake Trail Vista. Rocky Mountain National Park, Gem Lake Trail 2018

Tracy in Fedora. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Tracy in Fedora. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Great Sand Dunes National Park. Colorado 2018

Great Sand Dunes National Park. Colorado 2018

Our Rock, Grandpa. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Our Rock, Grandpa. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Mom and Bob. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Mom and Bob. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Tracy and Marley. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Tracy and Marley. Rocky Mountain National Park, Glacier Basin Campground 2018

Elk at dusk. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Elk at dusk. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Haley and Izzy. Rogers Family Reunion. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Haley and Izzy. Rogers Family Reunion. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Haley and Tracy. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground 2018 

Haley and Tracy. Rocky Mountain National Park Glacier Basin Campground 2018 

Hiking Gem Lake Trail. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Hiking Gem Lake Trail. Rocky Mountain National Park 2018

Hiking the Great Sand Dunes. The Great Sand Dunes National Park 2018

Hiking the Great Sand Dunes. The Great Sand Dunes National Park 2018

New work Naples and Miami

March 2018 Cover and Feature Shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine

March 2018 Cover and Feature Shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida for Naples Illustrated Magazine

Kiren Jones from Gucci in a Pierce-Arrow 1915 Model 48 B-3 shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Kiren Jones from Gucci in a Pierce-Arrow 1915 Model 48 B-3 shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Leeza Arkhangelskaya, Owner of East West Fine Art in a Delahaye, 1937, Type 135 MS Special Roaster shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Leeza Arkhangelskaya, Owner of East West Fine Art in a Delahaye, 1937, Type 135 MS Special Roaster shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Cee Cee Marinelli, Vice President of Commercial Leasing, Barron Collier Companies in a Alpha Romeo, 1938, Type 8c 2900B, Berlinette Touring shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Cee Cee Marinelli, Vice President of Commercial Leasing, Barron Collier Companies in a Alpha Romeo, 1938, Type 8c 2900B, Berlinette Touring shot at The Rev's Institute in Naples, Florida March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine

Ashley Gerry on the Cover of Naples Illustrated for their February 2018 Issue shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort. Special thanks to Danielle Travis at the Ritz for her help facilitating this shoot during their busiest time of t…

Ashley Gerry on the Cover of Naples Illustrated for their February 2018 Issue shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort. Special thanks to Danielle Travis at the Ritz for her help facilitating this shoot during their busiest time of the year. 

Jennifer Parisi  shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine.

Jennifer Parisi  shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine.

Heather Dockweiler shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine.

Heather Dockweiler shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine.

Ashley Gerry Covergirl shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine. Thanks to these amazing ladies for killing it and being so darn glamorous for my camera! Mucho Gusto Chicas. #lo…

Ashley Gerry Covergirl shot on location at the Ritz Carlton Naples Beach Resort for the March 2018 Issue of Naples Illustrated Magazine. Thanks to these amazing ladies for killing it and being so darn glamorous for my camera! Mucho Gusto Chicas. #lovelyladies #naplesflorida #magazinecovers #lifestyleportraits #miamiflorida #miamiphotographer #naplesphotographer

Happy New Year!

We've been hard at work creating a whole new content experience this past winter so excuse the lapse in visuals. In the meantime enjoy new editorial work with Ocean Drive Magazine featuring memory champion Nelson Dellis and stay tuned for the all new VanessaRogers.com

Memory Champion Nelson Dellis shot for Ocean Drive Magazine November 2017

Memory Champion Nelson Dellis shot for Ocean Drive Magazine November 2017

September 2017 Fashion and Portrait Spreads

It's been a while since our previous post, between hurricane Irma and summer travels to Italy, Colorado and soon Brazil there has just been too much content to handle and edit for the blog. In lieu of total indecision here are the newest spreads and covers for the Fall Season September 2017! 

Images above: GulfShore Life's 2017 September Charity Register Magazine Art Direction by Matthew Kritis, Hair & Makeup Styling by Judy Jacomino with Agency Gerard, Model Inma Torres at MC2 Miami shot on location at Hotel Indigo and Downtown Fort Myers, Florida.

Ocean Drive by Modern Luxury's September 2017 Issue featuring "That Miami Vibe" portraits featuring the Artist known as Santlov, Nomad Management's Damon Rutland and Montce Swim's Alexandra "Ali" Grief shot in Miami, Florida

Loved working on this cover and spread for Naples Illustrated's Annual Supermen Issue for the 6th time. It's always such a great pleasure working with Southwest Florida business owners, philanthropists and all in all great guys as well as these adorable dogs all in need of adoption from the Naples Humane Society (all since adopted). Here is this year's spread shot on location at the Naples home of Connie and Joseph Burke. Wardrobe and Styling by Arda Boyer of Mondo Uomo, Naples. Grooming by Philip Douglas. 

My cover shoot with the one and only Alan Richman of MAN VS FOOD

Happy Spring everyone. It's been a hot minute since my last update but better late than never. There have been quite a few projects and since I last posted but I'm excited to share my April Cover with Palm Beach Illustrated with 4 fabulous chef's, one of which I actually found myself watching obsessively before I stopped watching cable tv altogether, the one and only Alan Richman of Man Vs Food television fame. Can I tell you, he lives up to his hysterical reputation, literally I laughed the entire day and he was gracious as he was funny. Thank you too all of my fab subjects and enjoy the shoot baby below!

Celebrity Chefs Tim Lipman, Clay Conley, Johnny Iuzzini and Adam Richman from Man Vs Food shot at The Colony on Palm Beach for Palm Beach Illustrated by Vanessa Rogers

Celebrity Chefs Tim Lipman, Clay Conley, Johnny Iuzzini and Adam Richman from Man Vs Food shot at The Colony on Palm Beach for Palm Beach Illustrated by Vanessa Rogers

Clay Conley, Adam Richman, Tim Lipman and Johnny Iuzzini at The Colony Palm Beach Bar for Palm Beach Illustrated Magazine by Vanessa Rogers

Clay Conley, Adam Richman, Tim Lipman and Johnny Iuzzini at The Colony Palm Beach Bar for Palm Beach Illustrated Magazine by Vanessa Rogers

The incredibly funny and talented Adam Richman at The Colony Hotel Palm Beach

The incredibly funny and talented Adam Richman at The Colony Hotel Palm Beach

The boys at the Pool, Alan Richman, Tim Lipman and Clay Conley The Colony Hotel Palm Beach 

The boys at the Pool, Alan Richman, Tim Lipman and Clay Conley The Colony Hotel Palm Beach

 

PBI_CHEFS-5.jpg

Tim Lipman, Clay Conley, Johnny Iuzzini and Adam Richman , Opposite page Tim Lipman and Lindsay Autry

Shout out Saturday

A shout out goes to these esteemed individuals for working hard to create, nurture, and thrive the businesses that they love. Very inspirational!I had the chance to photograph them all for Ocean Drive Magazine

Fabrice Tardieu

www.fabricetardieu.com


Ginny Bakes

www.ginnybakes.com


Leni Penn

www.lenipenn.com