10 Lessons I Learned Taking a TEMPORARY Break from Photography to Working at Walmart (Without Losing My Clients)

I Took a Temporary break from Photography: 10 Lessons I learned from The 3 Months I worked at Walmart

“Sometimes, stepping away is the only way to see clearly.”

This is a story about burnout, rediscovery, and a hell of a wake-up call. It’s also a bit of a love letter to my family, my town, and the career I almost walked away from entirely.

This post might make or break my business. But I’ve always believed in being real and honest, and today I need to share this. Because sometimes life throws a storm at you—literally—and it forces you to reassess everything.

“3 months. 90 shifts. One giant shift in mindset.”

Why I Left NASCAR and What Changed

Some of you knew, but for the most part, I kept it quiet: I worked at Walmart for three months as a Digital Grocery Shopper. Only my close friends or those who needed to know my schedule were aware.

It wasn’t some grand fall from grace. It was survival. After Hurricane Helene hit, even though our home was spared serious damage (besides a flooded basement), I wasn’t. Emotionally, mentally—it shook me. I had flown out that same morning to shoot a NASCAR race in Kansas, ignoring every gut feeling that screamed at me not to go. I took a longer route through Wytheville instead of my normal drive through Boone, NC—thankfully, because the usual roads were wiped out.

I remember sitting at the gate, watching the plane shake in the wind, scrolling Facebook, and seeing Boone underwater. My stomach dropped. Montanna was already texting me, she was scared as trees fell around our home and the wind roared. She begged me to come back. I didn’t listen. I got on that plane.

By the time I landed, and as I walking walking off the plane I was on the phone with Montanna as she was telling me that Damascus was being evacuated. She and the kids were packing up. I watched a video she sent—my kids scared, her voice shaking—and I knew. I was done. Done putting my job before my family. Done missing the signs. Done traveling full-time for work.

I texted my boss and said I was going home.

That flight back was the hardest of my life. I had chosen my career over my family’s safety. Even if no one could predict the storm’s impact, I knew. My gut knew. And from that moment on, I promised myself things were going to change.

I finished out the NASCAR season and told my bosses I was done. People said I was crazy. Maybe I was. But I’d never been more certain.

Since then, I’ve been choosing the assignments that work for me and my family. I’ve fallen back in love with photography. I’m home every night. I see my wife and kids every weekend. I’m present. And that dark cloud I carried around for years? It’s starting to lift.

But starting over was tough. I didn’t have a local portfolio outside of racing. I didn’t have local clients. So I took a job that paid the bills and gave me time to rebuild.

That job was Walmart. I should also note that I do not work at Walmart any longer and am back to offering my photography services full-time.

And over three months, I learned more than I ever expected—not just about retail, but about myself, my business, and what truly matters.

So here it is:

10 Things I Learned from Working at Walmart (That I’m Bringing Into My Photography Business)

1. The 4am Club is real.
Waking up every day at 4am to be at work by 5 taught me just how much I can get done before most people even hit snooze. Productivity skyrockets when you own your mornings.

2. People just want to feel heard.
I dealt with a lot of frustrated customers. But you’d be surprised what a smile, calm tone, and a little empathy can do. It’s the same in photography—how you treat people matters.

3. Walking + podcasts = creative gold.
Walking close to eight miles a day with audiobooks and podcasts gave my brain time to wander, imagine, and plan. I came home buzzing with ideas for my business. That quiet movement time is powerful.

4. Coworkers shape your experience.
Whether you’re in NASCAR or picking frozen pizzas, your team can make or break a job. I made real friends at Walmart—people I still hang out with today.

5. Leadership matters.
Good bosses lead with empathy and encouragement. Bad ones lead with fear. Walmart reminded me how much leadership style impacts morale—and I carry that into how I collaborate now.

6. There’s always more going on behind the scenes.
The OGP (Online Grocery Pickup) system is a beast. Fast-paced, detailed, and team-driven. It reminded me how, in photography too, people only see the end result—but the behind-the-scenes work matters deeply.

7. I was ashamed. Then I wasn’t.
I felt embarrassed at first. From photographing NASCAR to picking groceries? But I did what I had to do for my family and my future. And I gained an even deeper respect for retail workers—hardworking people who don’t get nearly the credit they deserve.

8. Show up and give a damn.
I took pride in my work, even if it wasn’t glamorous. And guess what? People noticed. Same goes for photography: if you care, it shows. Your attitude always leaves a mark.

9. Wear solid shoes. Seriously.
I walked miles daily—thank God for my Hokas. But here’s the metaphor: proper shoes = being prepared. In business, preparation helps you go the distance. Know your gear, know your client, and show up ready.

10. There is no such thing as starting over. You’re just building differently.
Working at Walmart didn’t erase my past. It added to it. I didn’t “start over.” I redirected. I learned what I’m made of, what I value, and how much I love what I do. And now, I’m building something more sustainable, more fulfilling—and more me—than I ever had before.

This year has been humbling. But it’s also been healing. I found my fire again. I reconnected with why I picked up a camera in the first place. And most importantly, I found my why—my family, my community, my joy.

To anyone out there navigating a career shift, burnout, or the hard choice between “what pays the bills” and “what fills your soul”—you’re not alone.

You just might find your clarity on the grocery aisle like I did.

—

Thanks for reading. If this resonated with you, I’d love to hear your story—or answer any questions about what this transition has been like. Feel free to blast me an email or message me on the various social media platforms that I am on. Also, just to restate, I not longer work at Walmart and am offering my photography services full-time again.

- Sincerly, Ben Earp

Going for Gold: Photographing Jose Castillo for His Paris 2024 Olympics Announcement as Host of Team USA House

Behind the Lens: Photographing Jose Castillo for His Paris 2024 Olympics Announcement as Host of Team USA House

When it comes to photography, some assignments are more than just a job—they're personal. This one was exactly that.

In July of 2024, I had the honor of photographing Jose Castillo, an incredible emcee, speaker, and longtime friend, for one of the biggest announcements of his career: he was officially been named the Host and Emcee for Team USA House during the Paris 2024 Olympics.

For the first time ever, Team USA House opened to fans during the Summer Games, and Jose would be front and center, connecting Olympic athletes, celebrities, and supporters from all over the world. When he called and asked me to create the photos for his Olympics announcement and press release, I was beyond excited—not just because of what the moment meant professionally, but because I’ve had the privilege of knowing Jose personally for nearly a decade.

A Friendship Built at the Track

Jose and I first crossed paths back in 2015 at Bristol Motor Speedway, when I began photographing for the track. He was already a magnetic presence—engaging crowds with energy and authenticity—and over the years, we saw each other at races across the country. Whether it was Dover, Charlotte, Atlanta, or anywhere in between, I always looked forward to running into him for a quick catch-up and a laugh. We’ve been great friends ever since.

One memory that’s stuck with me happened a few years ago at Atlanta Motor Speedway. Jose had just wrapped up hosting a trackside event when a little girl came up and asked him to sign... her baby doll. He looked at her parents with a surprised grin and asked, “Are you sure you want me to sign her doll?” The parents lit up and said, “Yes!”—so Jose got down on one knee, sharpie in hand, and autographed that doll like it was a racing legend’s helmet. That moment was classic Jose: genuine, joyful, and always ready to make someone’s day.

A Career Milestone Worth Capturing

Over the years, Jose has trusted me to update his professional headshots multiple times. We’ve always had fun during those sessions, and he gives me the creative freedom to make images that feel like him. But this shoot—this one had extra weight.

Being asked to create the visuals for his official Olympics announcement was more than just an assignment. It was a moment of pride. As his friend, I know how much this opportunity means to him—how much heart and hustle he’s poured into his career to get to this level. Hosting Team USA House at the Paris 2024 Olympics is no small feat. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and I felt honored that he trusted me to help tell that story through photography.

When we met up for the shoot, we leaned into a bold, confident vibe. I may have made him look more like an Olympic athlete himself than an emcee—but honestly, that added to the energy of the photos. He looked every bit the part of someone who belongs on the Olympic stage, even if it’s behind the mic instead of on the medal stand.

Local Roots, Global Moments

One of the things that makes this story even more special is how it connects back to our roots. Jose lives in Johnson City, Tennessee, and I’m based just up the road in Damascus, Virginia, in the beautiful mountains of Southwest Virginia. We’re both proud to call this corner of the world home, and being able to collaborate on something as globally significant as the Paris 2024 Olympics while representing Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia adds another layer of meaning to it all.

Capturing a Voice of Team USA

Jose announced the news on Instagram with the caption:

"Going to Paris! 🇺🇸 Honored to be a Host & Emcee for Team USA House & to connect our athletes & fans at the Paris 2024 Olympics!! @teamusa #ParisOlympics For the first time ever, Team USA House will be open to the fans with a who’s who lineup of Olympic medalists, celebrities & guests. Check out the link in my bio for the details! — But I am most excited about the individual stories of each competitor. There are so many who have worked so hard to achieve their dreams, and I believe it gives us all hope that we can do the same."

That’s exactly who Jose is. He’s passionate about people, stories, and the spirit of possibility. And as someone who’s been lucky enough to witness his journey firsthand, I couldn’t have been prouder to see him step into the Olympic spotlight.

Final Thoughts

For me, this wasn’t just about creating personal branding images or photographing a public figure for a major event. It was about friendship, storytelling, and celebrating a well-earned achievement.

Congratulations, Jose. Paris 2024 was lucky to have you—Team USA was lucky to have you—and I’m lucky to call you a friend.

If you would like to find out more about Jose or book him to be the host of your event, check out his website Think Jose.

- Ben Earp

Capturing Resilience: Photographing Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath in Taylor’s Valley, VA

Capturing Resilience: Photographing Hurricane Helene’s Aftermath in Taylor’s Valley, VA

When Hurricane Helene swept through Southwest Virginia, the tiny community of Taylor’s Valley was left to pick up the pieces. Nestled in a secluded mountain valley near Damascus, VA, this quiet town after the storm had only one damaged road in and the same damaged road out—making the storm’s destruction even more isolating.

My friend John Coleman, a Damascus resident and preacher in Taylor’s Valley, invited me to document the hurricane damage. With my camera in hand, I set out to capture not just the devastation but also the resilience of this close-knit town.

A Community Uncertain, Then Welcoming

As I arrived in Taylor’s Valley, I could feel the initial hesitation. In a town this small, an unfamiliar face stands out. People glanced my way, unsure of why I was there photographing their streets, homes, and surroundings. But once word spread that I was invited by John, their demeanor changed. Their guarded expressions turned into warm conversations, and they began sharing their experiences, allowing me to capture both the destruction and the strength of their community.

The Storm’s Impact on Taylor’s Valley

The aftermath of Hurricane Helene was heartbreaking. Trees had been uprooted, blocking driveways and roads. Floodwaters had carved deep scars into the landscape, and homes bore the marks of wind and rain. Taylor’s Valley has an aging population, and many of the residents had seen storms before—but this one had left its mark.

Yet, despite the challenges, there was an unshakable sense of perseverance. Neighbors helped each other clear debris, sharing stories of past storms and the rebuilding efforts that would soon follow.

Finding Comfort in Community (and Chocolate Cake!)

In the midst of photographing the destruction, I was invited to join the locals for lunch at their community center. Sitting down with them, I saw firsthand the strength of small-town bonds—the way people lean on each other, even in difficult times. And I have to mention, I had the best piece of chocolate cake I’ve ever had in my life. It was a moment of simple joy, a reminder that even after the storm, there’s still sweetness to be found.

The Heart of a Small Mountain Town

Taylor’s Valley may be a small, tucked-away town, but it’s filled with big hearts. Through my lens, I didn’t just capture storm damage—I captured resilience, kindness, and community spirit. This experience was a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, small towns like Taylor’s Valley stand strong.

Capturing Resilience: Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Damascus, VA Through Photography

Through the Lens: Capturing the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

It has been six months since Hurricane Helene swept through our town of Damascus, Virginia, leaving behind a trail of destruction and a community forever changed. Montanna and I want to take a moment to sincerely thank everyone who has reached out with concern and support over the past six months. Your kindness has meant the world to us. We were grateful to come through the storm safely, and our home remained standing. However, Hurricane Helene left its mark on our lives and our community in ways that go beyond physical damage. Through my photography in Southwest Virginia, I documented the storm’s impact, captured the resilience of our neighbors, and helped keep the story alive through the power of visual storytelling.

The Storm’s Impact on Our Home and Community

Hurricane Helene brought torrential rain and powerful winds, testing the strength of homes and families alike. While our house remained intact, we experienced significant flooding in our cellar and crawl space when our sump pump failed. Water rose above our breaker panel and hot water heater, forcing the fire department to cut the power to our home. At that moment, Montanna and the kids had to make the tough decision to evacuate.

Meanwhile, I had woken up at 2 AM to drive to the Charlotte Airport for my flight to Kansas, for my normal NASCAR work that weekend. Knowing the storm's potential impact, I chose to avoid my usual route through Boone, NC, in case of flooding and instead took I-77. The drive was harrowing, with the worst rain and wind I had ever experienced. When I arrived at the airport, my flight was delayed for two hours, and I watched as the plane at the gate rocked violently in the wind. The unease of traveling during the storm weighed heavily on me.

As soon as I landed in Kansas, I received a call from Montanna telling me she and the kids were evacuating. She also sent this video showing the current water level of the creek near us as she was evacuating.

Hearing my kids in the background of the video, in that moment, I knew I had to get back home immediately. I grabbed my checked bag and went straight to the American Airlines ticket counter, still on the phone with Montanna as she and the kids made their way to a hotel in Abingdon, VA. The first ticket agent told me that because it was outside the 24-hour return window, it would cost nearly $500 to change my flight. Luckily, her supervisor overheard my conversation and stepped in, handing me a free ticket and even placing me in an exit row.

The flight home felt like the longest of my life. When I landed, Damascus had lost cell phone service, leaving us unsure of the extent of the damage. The drive to Abingdon felt endless, but in reality, I probably drove home faster than ever, fueled by worry and urgency. Finally, I arrived at the hotel where Montanna and the kids were staying, but all we could do was wait until morning to assess the damage. At sunrise on Saturday, I set out to check on our house and our friends. Where a check point by the Washington County Sheriff's Department had already been set up. I just had to confirm I lived at an address past the checkpoint to be allowed in. Once I confirmed that our home and everyone we cared about was safe, I grabbed my camera and did the only thing I knew to do—to process the devastation and contribute in the best way I could: by documenting the aftermath through photography.

Returning home, I discovered that our hot water heater was beyond repair, and we also had to replace the breakers due to the flooding. I lost a full weekend of work income due to the storm’s disruption, but in comparison to what many in our town endured, our losses felt minor. That’s why we focused on what we could do to help: I used my photography to capture and share the storm’s impact, while Montanna dedicated her time to the donation center, assisting those in need.

Photography as a Tool for Awareness and Recovery

In times of crisis, photojournalism has played a vital role in telling the stories that matter. Through my camera lens, I captured the resilience, strength, and unity of our community in the wake of Hurricane Helene. Each photograph serves as a visual testament to the devastation, the efforts to rebuild, and the heart of the people who refuse to be broken by disaster.

Photographs have the power to move people to action. Whether it's raising awareness, securing donations, or simply reminding us all of the human spirit’s resilience, imagery spoke louder than words. As I shared my work across social media, local news outlets, and my website, my goal was to keep the focus on those who needed help and to show that even in the darkest times, there was light.

Supporting Our Community and Moving Forward

Our town—and so many others affected by Hurricane Helene—needed support not just in the immediate aftermath, but in the weeks and months that followed. If you felt called to contribute, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness, your help was and still is invaluable.

As a professional photographer serving Southwest Virginia, my mission was to tell the story through compelling images that highlight the strength and perseverance of our community.

If you're looking for professional photography services in Southwest Virginia, whether for documentation, community events, or storytelling projects, I am here to help capture moments that matter. Photography has always been more than just a passion for me—it has been a way to make a difference, particularly in Southwest Virginia, where our communities rely on strong storytelling to bring attention to important causes.

Thank you for the support over these past months. Together, we will rebuild, heal, and move forward stronger than ever.

Cap & Gown Portrait Session - Barbie Randall

Cap & Gown Sessions: Celebrating College Graduates with Professional Photography

Cap and gown sessions aren’t just for high school seniors—college graduates deserve to celebrate their hard work, too! Recently, Barbie Randall reached out to me for a graduation photoshoot to commemorate earning her Associate of Applied Science in Business Administration – Management Emphasis from Tri-County Technical College in Pendleton, South Carolina. She’s now continuing her education at the University of South Carolina, pursuing her MBA.

Barbie, who lives in Anderson, South Carolina, met me in downtown Kings Mountain, North Carolina, for her session. A fun fact—she’s actually my cousin on my stepdad’s side of the family, and we hadn’t seen each other in over 20 years! It was a great session filled with catching up, laughing, and, of course, capturing amazing images. But even if you’re not family, I promise all of my photography sessions are just as fun!

The overcast skies on the day of our shoot provided perfect, even lighting, and thankfully, it wasn’t as cold as the rest of January had been. Below are a few of my favorite shots from the session.

Book Your Graduation Photography Session Now!

With May quickly approaching, graduation season is almost here! I’ll be taking the entire month of March off to spend time with my wife and our new baby boy, who we’re expecting on March 8th. However, I’m currently booking sessions for April and beyond. My schedule fills up quickly, so let’s get your session on the calendar now!

Click on the Contact tab at the top of my website to secure your session today. Let’s celebrate your achievements with stunning, professional photography!

Business Marketing Session - Equine Podiatry - Jack Causby Farrier Services

Capturing Craftsmanship: Equine Podiatry & Farrier Services with Jack Causby

Just before Christmas, I had the opportunity to work with Jack Causby’s Equine Podiatry and Farrier Services, creating professional images for his website and social media presence. His wife, Dayna Causby, reached out to schedule a Business Marketing Session, and we planned the shoot for a few weeks later at The Venue at James Creek in Ellenboro, NC—a stunning location just west of Shelby, NC, and north of Tryon, NC.

From the moment I arrived, I was impressed. The barn at The Venue at James Creek is beautifully maintained, and as a photographer, I knew right away that it was going to make for a fantastic backdrop. I was excited to get started, but the weather had other plans. A drizzle started just as I arrived, and by the time Jack got there, it had turned into a steady rain. But, as any photographer knows, sometimes unpredictable conditions make for the best shots.

Capturing a Skilled Craftsman at Work

After brief introductions, I snapped a few professional portraits of Jack before he got to work. One of the most interesting things about Jack is that he splits his time between North Carolina and Montana, providing farrier services in both locations. As he worked, he shared some incredible stories about Montana’s horse culture and even mentioned that he was the on-set farrier for a day on the TV show Yellowstone. That was definitely a cool experience to hear about.

Jack also had one special request—photos of his dog, Groot. Being a huge dog person myself, I was more than happy to oblige, capturing some great shots of his loyal companion.

Why Professional Branding Photography Matters

For small businesses, branding photography is a powerful tool. Whether you're a local farrier, an equine specialist, or any other type of entrepreneur, high-quality images help showcase your expertise and build trust with potential clients. Professional photos make all the difference in how your business is perceived online, whether on social media, websites, or marketing materials.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the session.

Book Your Business Marketing Session Today

If you're a small business owner in North Carolina, Southwest Virginia, or beyond and need high-quality photography for your services, products, or social media content, I’d love to work with you. Email me at BenEarpPhotography@gmail.com, and let’s schedule your Business Marketing Session today.

Connect with us!
Website: http://www.benearpphotography.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/BenEarpPhotography
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/BenEarpPhoto

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/benearpphoto
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/BenEarpPhoto
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNOdC1cMllvflJERwTPP0zQ

Basketball - Kings Mountain High School vs. Crest High School

Capturing High School Basketball Action in Kings Mountain, NC

This year, I’ve been doing contract work for TPS Photography, a local photography company based in Morganton, NC, that specializes in yearbook contracts for various high schools. As part of my work with them, I’m covering sports action photography, documenting high school athletes in action.

On the evening of January 26, 2021, I traveled to Kings Mountain, NC, to photograph an exciting basketball matchup between Kings Mountain High School and Crest High School from Shelby, NC. This was my first time covering high school basketball during the COVID-19 pandemic, and I have to say, it was a unique experience seeing players compete while wearing face masks.

The Importance of Sports Photography

Sports photography is more than just capturing the action—it's about preserving the energy, determination, and teamwork that make each game special. High-quality sports images provide schools, athletes, and families with lasting memories while also being an essential part of yearbook and athletic program coverage. Whether it’s the intensity of a game-winning shot or the emotion of a hard-fought match, every photo tells a story.

Here are a few of my favorite images from the night’s game.

Book a Professional Sports Photographer

If you're looking for professional sports photography in North Carolina or Southwest Virginia, I’d love to capture the action. Whether it’s high school athletics, college sports, or local events, my goal is to deliver dynamic images that showcase the heart of the game. Contact me at BenEarpPhotography@gmail.com to schedule sports coverage for your team or organization.

Swimming - Draughn High School - 01-22-2021

Capturing the Action at Draughn High School Swim Meet in Valdese, NC

This year, I’ve been doing contract work for TPS Photography, a local photography company based in Morganton, NC, that specializes in yearbook photography for various high schools. As part of my work with them, I’ve been covering sports action photography, documenting student-athletes in action.

On the evening of January 22, 2021, I traveled to the Valdese Recreational Department Rec Center to capture the energy of a high school swim meet between Jimmy C. Draughn High School (Valdese, NC) and Patton High School (Morganton, NC). Covering swimming events is always exciting because of the fast-paced nature of the sport and the challenge of capturing the perfect shot as athletes glide through the water.

The Importance of High School Sports Photography

Sports photography is about more than just action shots—it’s about preserving the intensity, skill, and dedication of athletes. High-quality images provide schools, athletes, and families with lasting memories while also playing a crucial role in yearbook and athletic program coverage. From powerful dives to close finishes, every moment tells a story worth capturing.

Here are just a few of my favorite images from the night’s meet.

Book a Professional Sports Photographer

If you’re looking for a professional sports photographer in North Carolina or Southwest Virginia, I’d love to capture the action. Whether it’s swimming, basketball, football, or any other sport, I strive to deliver dynamic images that highlight the energy and passion of the game. Contact me at BenEarpPhotography@gmail.com to schedule sports coverage for your team or organization.

Sidetracked Brewery

Sidetracked Brewery: A Must-Visit Craft Beer Spot in Morganton, NC

It’s Monday, and you’ve had a rough day at work after a relaxing weekend. You need a place to unwind. Or maybe it’s a Friday or Saturday night, and you’re looking for the perfect hangout spot to enjoy quality time with friends. Perhaps you’re gearing up to watch your favorite team play and need a cold beer to pair with your game-day food. Whatever the occasion, I highly recommend checking out Sidetracked Brewery, located at 609 S Green St. STE 100 in Morganton, North Carolina, right next to the historic Morganton Railroad Station.

A Cozy Atmosphere with a Railroad-Inspired Theme

Owners Joseph and Jessica Ackerman have truly created something special with Sidetracked Brewery. From the moment you step inside, you’ll notice the warm, cozy ambiance. The industrial brick walls, exposed piping, and low ceilings give it an inviting, laid-back feel. Another standout feature is the brewery’s open-concept design, allowing guests to see the brewing tanks in action as Joseph crafts their wide selection of beers.

Staying true to its name, Sidetracked Brewery incorporates a railroad theme throughout the space—from vintage railway photos and signs to actual rail pieces embedded at the bar. If you’re a rail enthusiast like I am, you’ll appreciate these thoughtful details.

A Diverse Selection of Craft Beers

Sidetracked Brewery offers an impressive lineup of craft beers, including:

• IPAs

• Sours

• Blonde Ales

• Hefeweizens

• Irish Red Ales

• Irish Stouts

• Seasonal & Specialty Brews

Some of their unique, must-try specialty brews include:

• Butterbeer (a magical, creamy treat)

• Girl Stout Cookie (a minty beer reminiscent of the beloved cookie)

• Pickle Beer (for those who love a little tang)

They also have creatively named brews like Thomas the Dank Engine, Whistleblower Sour, Light Rail Blonde, Crosstie Brown, and Knucklethrower IPA. Personally, I’m all about sours and hefeweizens, so those are my go-to choices whenever I stop by. And if you’re a fan of cider, they offer some fantastic cider beers as well.

Events & Community Vibes

Beyond great beer, Sidetracked Brewery fosters a strong community atmosphere. When COVID-19 restrictions aren’t in place, they host fun events like:

• Sign Language Classes

• Cornhole Tournaments

• Darts Competitions

Plan Your Visit to Sidetracked Brewery

If you’re looking for a new go-to craft beer spot in Morganton, NC, Sidetracked Brewery is a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, their welcoming vibe, unique beer selection, and railroad-themed decor make it a standout destination.

Stop by and give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!

- Ben

Mountain Burrito

Mountain Burrito: The Best Spot for Tacos, Nachos, and Burritos in Morganton, NC

After a long hike in the Linville Gorge, a refreshing swim at Wilson Creek, or even just a busy day at the office, nothing hits the spot quite like a flavorful burrito, a plate of loaded nachos, or some delicious tacos. When I need my fix, I head straight to Mountain Burrito in Morganton, North Carolina.

Owner Bryan Drake is a true master in the kitchen. From perfectly seasoned meats to handcrafted salsas, every bite at Mountain Burrito is packed with flavor. One visit is all it takes to start planning your next.

The Mountain Burrito Experience

When you walk into Mountain Burrito, you'll notice the ordering process is similar to an assembly line. Friendly staff members behind the counter build your meal as you select your ingredients.

First, you’ll choose your base—burrito, nachos, naked burrito, or tacos (soft or hard shell). If you're lucky, Bryan might have a daily special written on the blackboard near the entrance. If it’s Tuesday at lunchtime, I highly recommend the fish tacos. And if chili is on the menu, trust me—you need to try it.

Next, you’ll pick your protein: pork, chicken, steak, or chorizo. Vegetarians, don’t worry—there are plenty of meat-free options available too. Then, you’ll choose between black beans, pinto beans, or grilled onions. Occasionally, Bryan offers seasonal ingredients like potatoes, which are always a great addition.

Once your meal moves down the line, it's time for the fresh veggies and salsa toppings. Above the counter, a blackboard lists an ever-changing variety of house-made salsas ranging from mild to spicy, including tomato-based options and unique seasonal fruit and veggie blends.

My Go-To Order

Personally, I always go for steak nachos with black beans, pickled onions, regular chopped onions, cabbage, and shredded cheese—plus the creamy queso already smothered on top. I finish it off with a mix of chipotle sauce and tomato ranch for the perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors.

Before digging in, I make a quick stop at the large stand-up table in the center of the restaurant to drizzle on some of their famous garlic oil. If you're a garlic fan, you're in for a treat. Even if you're not, Mountain Burrito’s flavors will keep you coming back for more.

Why You Should Visit Mountain Burrito

Mountain Burrito isn’t just a place to grab a meal—it’s a must-visit destination for food lovers in Morganton. The laid-back vibe, fresh ingredients, and creative menu make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Whether you eat at the outdoor picnic tables or take your meal to go, you’re in for an amazing dining experience.

So, if you ever find yourself in Morganton, NC, I highly recommend stopping by Mountain Burrito. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Kings Mountain vs. Crest Volleyball - 12-8-2020

High School Volleyball Action: Kings Mountain vs. Crest

I had the opportunity to capture some exciting high school volleyball action after being contracted by TPS Photography in Morganton, North Carolina. This match featured Kings Mountain High School (Kings Mountain, NC) taking on Crest High School (Shelby, NC) at Kings Mountain’s home court. Both the JV and Varsity teams were packed with talent, so it was set to be a night of competitive and high-energy matches.

Capturing Volleyball in the Era of Covid-19

With Covid-19 restrictions still in place, everyone inside the gym—players, coaches, and spectators—was required to wear masks. Photographing athletes mid-game while wearing masks created a unique visual element that will serve as a reminder of how different life was during this time. Years from now, looking back at these images will be a testament to the resilience of student-athletes who played through unprecedented challenges.

A Night of Intensity and Energy

From the first serve to the final point, both teams played their hearts out, making for some incredible moments to capture through my lens. The fast-paced action, powerful spikes, and intense rallies kept the energy high throughout the night. These photos will be featured in both schools’ yearbooks, preserving the memories of an unforgettable season for the players, coaches, and fans.

A huge thank you to TPS Photography for bringing me on board to photograph this match. It’s always a privilege to document student-athletes giving their all on the court.

Toasted and Rolled

Toasted and Rolled: A Must-Try Ice Cream Experience in Morganton, NC

If you haven’t been to Toasted and Rolled in Morganton, North Carolina, you’re missing out on some incredible rolled ice cream and sweet creations. Wait—did I just say rolled ice cream? Yup, I sure did! At Toasted and Rolled, you get to watch your ice cream being made right in front of you. Think of it as the hibachi grill of ice cream.

A Unique Ice Cream Experience

The magic happens on a super-cold chiller plate, where your ice cream is handcrafted before your eyes. Once it reaches the perfect consistency, it's rolled into beautiful spirals, creating a unique and visually stunning treat that’s just as fun to watch as it is to eat.

But if rolled ice cream isn’t your thing, don’t worry—they also serve over-the-top milkshakes topped with whole cake slices and other wild toppings. And if you're in the mood for something warm, their seasonal holiday hot chocolates are a must-try.

Visit Toasted and Rolled in Downtown Morganton

Whether you're a local or just passing through Burke County, make sure to swing by downtown Morganton and stop in for a treat you won’t forget. It’s the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth with a dessert experience unlike any other.

Attention Business Owners: Elevate Your Social Media Presence

Is your social media content struggling to represent your brand effectively? In today’s business climate, a strong online presence is more important than ever. If you need high-quality images that showcase your products, services, or overall brand identity, I can help. Let’s work together to create engaging content that gets your business the attention it deserves.

Contact me today to discuss how I can support your marketing needs!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving from my little family to yours!

NEW LOGO REVEAL DAY

Today is the day—I’m finally unveiling my brand-new logo!

When designing this logo, I wanted something that strikes the perfect balance between modern and elegant. It needed to represent both sides of my photography business—bold and dynamic for my sports and motorsports photography, yet timeless and sophisticated for my commercial, real estate, and portrait work.

I think I nailed exactly what I was going for, but I’d love to hear your thoughts. What do you think of my new logo?

Two Dogs, One Child and one more on the way?! (Photo How-To)

Our Baby Announcement – A Photographer’s Take

A couple of months ago, my wife, Montanna, and I shared the exciting news that we’re expecting a little boy in March! Naturally, as a photographer, I knew I had to announce our baby in a creative way through photography.

After brainstorming, Montanna and I decided on a unique approach—we would include a letter board, my stepson, Remi, and, for the fun challenge, our two dogs all in one image! Sounds like a recipe for chaos, right? It had the potential to turn into a meltdown with two runaway dogs.

Spoiler alert: There were no meltdowns, and the dogs did better than expected! In fact, I pulled off the entire shot in under 10 minutes. To create the final image, I actually combined three separate photos. I’ll share the original final image first, followed by the three unedited, straight-out-of-camera frames that made it possible.

Enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at how we created our special baby announcement!

Baby Curfman Announcement

Capturing Hannah and Shane’s Baby Announcement in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Ever since my wife, Montanna, and I found out we were expecting a baby in June, I’ve officially become that sappy dad who thinks every baby is pretty darn cute. It’s amazing how becoming a parent can change your perspective!

A few months after we announced that we were having a little boy, a fellow hiking friend of mine, Hannah, reached out to me for help with her own baby announcement photos. Of course, I immediately said yes! I was excited to help someone else share the joy of telling the world about their little one on the way.

We met at Oak Hill Iron + Wood in Oak Hill, North Carolina, where both Hannah and Shane work. Shane’s parents own the company, which is located just outside Morganton, NC. The setting was perfect—the leaves were just starting to show their bright fall colors, and the crisp autumn air made for a comfortable morning session. With the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains in the background, it was the ideal spot to capture such a special moment.

But enough from me—here are a few of my favorite photos from Hannah and Shane’s baby announcement!