Every year I head down to Carrboro, North Carolina for the North Carolina Comedy Arts Festival, hosted by my good friend Zach Ward and his Dirty South Improv Theater. The festival has been around for 10 years now, and has grown immensely in the four years that I’ve been attending. The little town of Carrboro now boasts a world-class festival that includes stand-up, sketch, film and improvised comedy. Those who know me know that I’m a big fan of improv, and enjoy performing as well. So, it’s always a pleasure and an honor that Zach asks me each year to combine this passion of mine with my passion for shooting.
Shooting live events is not something I do regularly or professionally, but shooting improv is a real joy. The challenge of capturing the very peak of a spontaneous moment under trying lighting conditions is a real test of my photography abilities, and keeps me thoroughly engaged in the moment. The festival is packed with some of North America’s most talented improvisers, and there’s no shortage of these brilliant improvised moments to shoot.
I return from the festival each year creatively invigorated, nourished by friendships renewed, and loaded with gigabytes of images. You can find this year’s selection in my portfolio. However, there are a lot to sift through. I’ve collected my favorites in the gallery below.
