sometimes they come back ...

i first met derek medlin back in september 2007 when i was in florida for an academic conference on pop culture. as with most conferences, participants typically go to a few panels or present essays and then spend the rest of the time doing leisurely activities. i decided to bring my camera and seek out some local talent for shooting. i photographed derek and 5 other guys (erik, alan, darion, and two hotel guests swimming and diving in the pool) during my trip ...


... but only one continues to pass through every year or so for a chat, a few photos, and this time a shower (after driving over 20hrs on his way back to florida).

back in 2007, derek was this young kiddo with a big tattoo who wanted to see what he could do with modeling. i had no idea where to go in florida (we were in jacksonville), so he picked me up and we drove around until i said, "let's try here" ...




in august of 2008, he made his first pass through tennessee. i was all over the place with what i wanted to shoot ...


and then he came back in february 2009 with a fresh haircut and a more polished look ...


i thought it was the best i had ever seen him look; however, derek passed through town again this past weekend and even after driving over 20hrs while on his way back to florida he managed to grab a quick shower, jump in front of the camera, and present himself in what i can honestly say is ... well, i'll let the photo speak the words:


derek says he's ready to try his hand (or face and body i suppose we would have to say) at modeling again, and i wish him the best - he deserves it.

thanks for being one of the good ones and always making time to pass through, sir.