3 days ago
Co Creator: 
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Posted On: October 14th 2026, 11:09 am
People often ask me what my first big break was. This is the story I'll never forget.
April 2025. Tech N9ne and Hollywood Undead were playing The Rave in Milwaukee.
I'd been shooting concerts for just over a year under my own business, Shots By Eagle. I was still relatively unknown, building from the ground up and trying to turn my passion into something real.
I never imagined I'd meet Tech N9ne, let alone photograph his show.
During a VIP meet-and-greet, I told him about my photography business. I had a choice: enjoy the moment and walk away, or take a chance.
So I asked him:
"I have my gear with me. Do you mind if I shoot this show for you?"
He said, "Yeah, man. Let's see what you got. Talk to my guy, and he'll get you hooked up with a photo pass."
Just like that.
Minutes later, I was preparing to photograph two artists who'd played a huge role in my life. I was nervous, excited, and questioning whether I was good enough to be there.
Then showtime came. I stepped into the photo pit and did what I came to do.
And I did.
Since that night, I've photographed five Tech N9ne shows across the country and returned to StrangeLand several times.
I often wonder where I'd be today if I hadn't asked that one question.
That's why I'm sharing this.
It's easy to convince yourself you're not ready, experienced enough, or connected enough to pursue an opportunity.
I could've talked myself out of it. I could've decided someone like me had no business asking someone like him.
But that would've gotten me absolutely nowhere.
I had my camera, a business I believed in, and the courage to ask.
So reach out. Apply. Introduce yourself. Ask the question.
Be professional. Put in the work. Back up your words with results. The answer might be no, but don't reject yourself before you even try.
You never know which conversation could change your life.
Sometimes, the difference between wondering what could have happened and finding out is having the courage to ask.
Take the shot. You owe yourself at least that much.
April 2025. Tech N9ne and Hollywood Undead were playing The Rave in Milwaukee.
I'd been shooting concerts for just over a year under my own business, Shots By Eagle. I was still relatively unknown, building from the ground up and trying to turn my passion into something real.
I never imagined I'd meet Tech N9ne, let alone photograph his show.
During a VIP meet-and-greet, I told him about my photography business. I had a choice: enjoy the moment and walk away, or take a chance.
So I asked him:
"I have my gear with me. Do you mind if I shoot this show for you?"
He said, "Yeah, man. Let's see what you got. Talk to my guy, and he'll get you hooked up with a photo pass."
Just like that.
Minutes later, I was preparing to photograph two artists who'd played a huge role in my life. I was nervous, excited, and questioning whether I was good enough to be there.
Then showtime came. I stepped into the photo pit and did what I came to do.
And I did.
Since that night, I've photographed five Tech N9ne shows across the country and returned to StrangeLand several times.
I often wonder where I'd be today if I hadn't asked that one question.
That's why I'm sharing this.
It's easy to convince yourself you're not ready, experienced enough, or connected enough to pursue an opportunity.
I could've talked myself out of it. I could've decided someone like me had no business asking someone like him.
But that would've gotten me absolutely nowhere.
I had my camera, a business I believed in, and the courage to ask.
So reach out. Apply. Introduce yourself. Ask the question.
Be professional. Put in the work. Back up your words with results. The answer might be no, but don't reject yourself before you even try.
You never know which conversation could change your life.
Sometimes, the difference between wondering what could have happened and finding out is having the courage to ask.
Take the shot. You owe yourself at least that much.
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