In 2020 I worked on the Biden campaign. I’ve experienced what it’s like to work in politics—always being on call, in meetings, talking to thousands of people—and ultimately felt extremely drained at the end of this experience. I had hardly any time to work on my personal photography, art, read, write, or do anything for myself. As an artist, I very much realize that this lifestyle, of negotium, or attending to business affairs, is absolutely not for me.
Follow Your Inner Child
Even when I worked as a photographer for the city, I found it extremely unfulfilling, because I had to make basic and boring portraits or pictures of events. This was around the time that I said to myself that it’s time for radical change, and just started shooting high contrast, black-and-white—basically putting a stamp on the timeline that says I’m now pursuing photography as an independent artist.
And so I’m sharing this with you today because I believe that maybe something I say—or just by simply sharing my personal journey—can inspire you to think radically different about how we approach life. I feel like life is the ultimate video game, and it’s up to you to decide how you wanna play the game. You don’t have to live by the same rules, guidelines, or strategies that other players adopted.
For instance, I worked as a Peace Corps volunteer in Zambia, simply due to my intuition telling me to do so—it was like my inner child who explored in the forest wanted to go for another adventure. I volunteered on a kibbutz in Israel and lived amongst a Palestinian family in Jericho, sleeping on the floors of mosques and traveling all throughout the desert with a group of brothers. Inspired by my experiences tending the garden of a stranger’s home in Jericho, or even on the kibbutz and my time in the Peace Corps, I realized how much joy working with my hands in the soil brings me.
When I was a little boy, I loved to explore the Wissahickon forest on my own in solitude. I would build teepees with sticks, sharpen spears, attempt to hunt deer, climb trees, swing from vines, and build bridges with stones—exploring the unknown, blazing my own trails and paths in my backyard. And now, as a 29-year-old adult, I placed a stone in a creek that I cross every day when I walk to work.
By remembering and following the thread of my inner child, in solitude, I found my path. I now work in horticulture—tending gardens, spending my time in the park, doing a lot of hard labor to be honest—chopping down trees, lugging thousands of pounds of wood to the recycling center, watering plants, digging holes, getting dirty, and working hard throughout the day. But here’s the thing—everything feels like play to me.
Everything Should Feel Like Voluntary Play
I think the tragedy of the modern world and society in general is that we get our inner child sucked out of us. We start to involuntarily play the game when we’re supposed to voluntarily play.
Think of a child. A child doesn’t need to be forced to go to the playground. A child simply wakes up, eager for the sunrise, ready for the day, ready to hit that playground.
And so that’s how I look at the world these days—in the street as my ultimate playground—and I’m just a big kid running around with my camera in my pocket. This is also how I feel in my work life, where I go to the garden to play during the day. Despite how hard it may be, it’s genuinely something that’s calling me and bringing me that sense of childlike joy in my life.
Think about play more, and how you can create a life of play—or what I like to call leisure—rather than involuntarily forcing yourself to do something because you feel like you should or have to. You should only do things because you want to.
A Life of Perpetual Otium Is My Goal
If you think about ancient Athens or Greece or Rome and all these beautiful city-states where philosophers would gather in the Agora or spend time under the Plato tree to just discuss philosophy and life and things—they actually had the leisure and free time to think, read, write, and discuss amongst each other.
Now, time is the ultimate currency. How you spend your time, and what you’re paying attention to, is what truly matters the most in life.
We basically spend 99% of our time doing things because we think we should or we have to, and this leads to a lack of leisure, a lack of freedom of the mind.
I ultimately find that by prioritizing the freedom of my mind, I’m able to evolve at a much more rapid rate than I otherwise would if I was attending to business affairs. I designed a lifestyle where I have the freedom to think throughout the entirety of my day—to attend lectures online, read ancient philosophy, or even read the Gospels and contemplate theology, make art, write poems, and go for walks in the woods.
It’s a tragedy that we no longer have free time. But more specifically, the lack of freedom of mind is the ultimate tragedy.
Because what I realize—even if I’m working hard labor, which I absolutely enjoy and find so much meaning in, and feel aligns with everything I could dream of in a lifestyle—even if we consider myself as an ancient Roman slave, toiling in the soil with knees on the ground and back bending: a life of physical slavery is at least much more interesting than this modern world of sedation.
I’d rather be enslaved in my body and have freedom of the mind than be enslaved of the mind and what I’m paying attention to.
I’d rather be an ancient Roman slave than a modern-day slave.
Think Like an Ancient, Live Like You’re Amish, But You’re Already in 2045
Cattle was one of the earliest forms of wealth. The word capital derives from cattle. When you think ancient, you unlock a new perception of reality.
Simply by studying the etymological root of the words you use daily, you can discover the truth. You don’t even need ancient books—just type the word into ChatGPT.
My philosophy: think like I’m an ancient, live like I’m Amish, but operate like I’m already in 2045. A simple life—spending time outside in the sun, upright, working with my hands in the soil, going to bed early, waking up early around 4:30. I keep a natural circadian rhythm all year round.
I like waking up and praying, ending the day with gratitude, and living that simple Amish life. Honestly, I just returned from Amish country in Lancaster, PA, where I purchased hundreds of pounds of beef. I bought a half cow, stored it in a deep freezer, and now have a decentralized food supply in my home—no longer dependent on corporations and grocery stores to feed me. I literally handshake a farmer and they provide me with the highest quality meat in the country.
Now that I’ve thought about the world ancient, and recognize the power of cattle, I take it seriously.
While I live like an Amish boy in the city, I’m also stacking sats in cyberspace, buying Bitcoin while the entire world is asleep to the future of money. I’m using AI daily while innovating in photography.
This is my approach to the video game—voluntary play, childlike joy, the life of an ancient philosopher amongst the ruins of an urban jungle, frolicking around with my meat and Bitcoin. Maybe I should just get a bowl cut next.
Walk Barefoot Like Socrates in the Symposium
I’ve been walking barefoot for over two and a half years now, and I find it interesting how many people comment on it. Even my godmother showed me an ad saying barefoot shoes are better for the elderly. People are starting to wake up.
But for me, it’s gone beyond physical reasons. It’s become philosophical, even spiritual. I used to work for a union, wearing steel toe boots on hard floors. I developed plantar fasciitis. But now, my posture is stronger, my back is better, and I feel adapted.
There’s also a mental component to this. It’s radical. It’s different. Walking with your toes out in these weird little finger shoes—it’s like rebuilding a video game character from the ground up.
When you start a game and you design your character, you pick shoes, hairstyle, outfit—but walking barefoot is stripping to the default character on the loading screen.
That’s why I wear all black, black barefoot shoes, tape over logos, no visible brands. It’s a rejection of identity through consumption. I don’t identify with the things I buy.
Instead of owning a car, I walk barefoot and take the bus. It’s like playing the video game on hardcore mode—but little does everyone know, I’ve got the cheat code. Because I’m becoming stronger, wiser, and freer—not owned by the things that people think they own.
How the Village Transformed My Life
When I lived in the village in Zambia, the first thing my host family presented me was a goat hanging from a tree to slaughter. After I slaughtered it, we feasted on the meat all week.
I fetched water from a well, lived under a thatched roof, worked a farm, learned a new language—and realized something profound.
Despite all the modern amenities, technology, and material things we have in cities, they don’t bring happiness.
People say wealth brings joy. But I beg to differ.
I’m not romanticizing the hardship. They deserve better—running water, proper plumbing, and waste disposal. But they have spiritual nourishment, unlike anything I’ve ever witnessed. They orient themselves upwards, not horizontally, where everyone is just grabbing for more.
Everyone lives selflessly, for the tribe or community.
And through that selfless way of life, they find joy. Maybe that’s why we’re so depressed here. Because we’re so selfish.
The word leisure has its origins in Old French and Latin. It comes from the Old French word leisir, meaning “capacity, freedom, or opportunity to do something,” which in turn derives from the Latin licēre, meaning “to be permitted” or “to be allowed.”
Licēre in Latin is related to the concept of freedom or permission, suggesting that leisure historically meant the freedom or opportunity to engage in activities of one’s choice without obligation. Over time, leisure evolved to its current meaning of free time spent away from duties, work, or obligations, often associated with relaxation and enjoyment.
Otium is a Latin term that refers to a state of leisure, peace, or freedom from duties, often used to describe a condition of productive rest or intellectual contemplation. In ancient Roman culture, otium was considered the opposite of negotium(business or work). It was not merely idleness but a time dedicated to enriching pursuits such as philosophy, literature, art, and personal development.
The concept held a significant place in the writings of Roman philosophers and poets like Cicero, Seneca, and Horace. For example:
Cicero saw otium as an ideal state that allowed for intellectual and philosophical growth.
Seneca linked otium to the practice of Stoicism, urging individuals to use their leisure time wisely for self-improvement and reflection.
Horace celebrated otium in his poetry as a space for appreciating beauty, nature, and the pleasures of life.
In a modern context, otium might inspire a reconsideration of how we approach leisure—not as mere escapism but as a vital component of a fulfilling and balanced life. It suggests the possibility of integrating rest with purposeful activities that nourish the mind and soul.
Etymology
The word otium comes from the Latin root oti-, which signifies “leisure” or “ease,” and its earliest usages date back to Ancient Rome. It primarily referred to a state of being free from work or business obligations (negotium, meaning “not leisure,” was its opposite).
The etymology of otium is thought to be connected to the Proto-Indo-European root ēi- or ei- (“to go”), which evolved into concepts of “rest” or “remaining” in later Latin. This suggests a transition from movement or labor to a state of tranquility or withdrawal.
Semantic Evolution:
In Classical Rome: Otium had positive connotations of restfulness and freedom, often associated with intellectual or creative pursuits, such as philosophical study, writing, or artistic work.
Medieval and Renaissance Latin: The word became linked more closely to scholarly or monastic practices, reflecting a contemplative withdrawal from the busy world.
Modern Influences: While otium is less commonly used today, its derivatives and conceptual echoes remain in words like “otiose” (meaning idle or futile in English) and the broader idea of leisure as a productive or reflective space.
The term captures a duality: leisure as both a withdrawal from the busyness of life and a platform for engaging in life’s higher purposes.
What does it mean to be at leisure and why does this matter?
For myself, leisure is something mental and physical. Leisure is not necessarily just chilling out at the beach, laying under the sun, and being passive. Leisure means more to me than the traditional idea of “vacation.”
The word vacation, deriving from the Latin verb, vacare , means “to be empty, free, or at leisure.”
Leisure is a mindset
Leisure is freedom. In a modern sense, to be free of your mind, is to have nothing on the schedule, nobody texting, calling, or emailing you. Leisure is simply spending the time that you have during the day how you want to without external influence. This mental freedom is something I value most in life.
Physical Leisure
Leisure is spending the maximum amount of time outside, walking, under the sun, making photos, videos, and exploring the world. It’s deciding on your own terms when you want to lift weights, exercise, and go for walks. Leisure isn’t just a time for rest, but it’s a time to be physical, through yoga, lifting, walking, nature, hikes, and things that typically seem “a waste of time“ in a modern sense.
To be at leisure is to be free.
I believe that work can be leisure, depending on how you look at it. For instance, my work in Horticulture, gardening, is something I treat completely as physical leisure. It’s a way for me to meditate, be present, and spend time in nature. I suggest we all think more critically about what leisure means to us, and pursue that as much as possible. This modern world prioritizes the idea of productivity way too much, and I think it’s best for all of us to take a step back, and live our everyday life on our own terms.
📚 The Ultimate Guide: Immutable, Open-Source Photo Archive
Create a permanent, verifiable, open-source archive of your photography using the best tools available today. This guide walks you through every step — from organizing your files to timestamping them on the Bitcoin blockchain and building a public-facing website to display your work.
🧱 Overview of Your Setup
Component
Tool/Platform
Purpose
File Format
High-res JPEGs + Small JPEGs
Full-quality preservation + web display
Hashing Algorithm
SHA-256
Best cryptographic fingerprinting
Timestamping Blockchain
Bitcoin via OpenTimestamps
Decentralized, immutable time proof
Permanent Storage
IPFS (free) + optional Arweave (paid)
Decentralized, tamper-proof hosting
Static Site Generator
Hugo (fastest, most popular)
Build a simple, fast archive site
Hash Verifier Tool
shasum -a 256 (Mac/Linux) or HashMyFiles (Windows)
Create hashes locally
Web Gateway
ipfs.io, cloudflare-ipfs.com, or your own IPFS node
Serve files from IPFS reliably
Optional Front-End Hosting
GitHub Pages, Vercel, or Netlify
Free static site deployment
✅ Step-by-Step Process
🔹 1. Organize Your Photo Archive
Create a folder structure like this:
/photo-archive/
├── 2025/
│ ├── 2025-07-02-boy-on-bike.jpg ← High-res
│ ├── 2025-07-02-boy-on-bike-small.jpg ← Small JPEG for web
Tip: Keep filenames clean using the format: YYYY-MM-DD-title.jpg.
🔹 2. Generate SHA-256 Hashes (Local Verification)
Mac/Linux Terminal:
shasum -a 256 2025-07-02-boy-on-bike.jpg >> hashes.txt
Windows: Use HashMyFiles and export hashes to hashes.txt.
This hashes.txt becomes your public integrity manifest.
🔹 3. Timestamp Hashes on the Bitcoin Blockchain (Proof of Existence)
Once deployed, your archive is now public, open-source, and verifiable.
🔹 8. (Optional) Upload Hashes and Timestamp Proof to GitHub
To ensure transparency:
Create a public GitHub repo.
Include hashes.txt and hashes.ots.
Anyone can now verify the timestamp and authenticity of your photo archive independently.
🎨 Front-End Layout Recommendation
For each photo page:
-----------------------------------------
📸 [Small JPEG Displayed Here]
🖼️ Title: Boy on Bike
📅 Date Taken: July 2, 2025
🔗 Download: [Download High-Res JPEG via IPFS]
🧬 SHA-256 Hash: 3f7857c0a4e6b74a9f2e1d2d0b58fdbdd3293c7f5d373b11e0f36b4a132f8ea1
-----------------------------------------
You can also include:
Camera info
Tags
Notes or story
🧠 Final Thoughts
You now have:
High-res JPEGs stored on IPFS
Cryptographic hashes proving image integrity
Timestamps on Bitcoin verifying when they existed
A clean, fast, static website for public access
A transparent GitHub repo for verification
This is an open-source, decentralized, censorship-resistant archive that can last forever.
I feel like I can see beyond the veil when I hold up my LCD screen to life, viewing the world in high contrast black-and-white-
The Platonic Aesthetic
The Platonic aesthetic is rooted in Plato’s philosophy of beauty, art, and form. It emerges from his metaphysical worldview, where what is truly beautiful exists not in the physical world, but in a realm of perfect, eternal, and unchanging Forms (or Ideas).
1. Beauty as an Eternal Form
Plato believed that everything in the physical world is an imperfect reflection of a more perfect, abstract reality—the World of Forms. Among these Forms is Beauty itself—not any particular beautiful object or face, but the pure essence of Beauty.
“Beauty is not in the object. It is in the Idea of the object.”
When we see something beautiful (a sunset, a sculpture, a face), we’re catching a glimpse of the eternal Form of Beauty, filtered through the material world.
2. The Ascent to Beauty (Symposium)
In Plato’s dialogue Symposium, he outlines a mystical, philosophical ladder called the “Ladder of Love”, described by Diotima. It goes like this:
Attraction to a beautiful body
Admiration of all beautiful bodies
Appreciation of the beauty of the soul
Love of beautiful laws and institutions
Love of knowledge and philosophy
Contemplation of Beauty itself—pure, eternal, and divine
This is a spiritual and intellectual progression—a move from the sensory to the transcendent.
“He who has been instructed thus far in the things of love… is approaching the final revelation: the Form of Beauty itself.” – Symposium
3. Art as Imitation (Republic)
Plato was skeptical of artists. In The Republic, he argued that:
Artists merely imitate the world around them (which is already an imitation of the Forms).
So art is twice removed from the truth.
It can mislead or stir emotions irrationally, pulling us further from philosophical truth.
“Poets and painters do not produce truth, but shadows of shadows.”
He wanted art to be morally and intellectually uplifting, not merely entertaining or emotional.
4. Harmony and Proportion
Plato admired mathematical harmony, symmetry, and proportion—especially in art and architecture (think of the golden ratio). These qualities mirrored the rational order of the cosmos and the Forms.
In this way, true beauty is linked with order, unity, and balance.
Summary of the Platonic Aesthetic
Beauty is objective and exists in an immaterial, eternal realm.
Sensory beauty is a gateway to philosophical truth.
The ultimate goal is to contemplate the Form of Beauty, not just physical appearances.
Art must aim to elevate the soul, not distract it with illusions.
True beauty is tied to truth, goodness, and harmony.
So what would Plato think about my idea of shooting high contrast, black and white as a way to return to the essence of the medium of photography, drawing with light
What Would Plato Think of High-Contrast Black-and-White Photography?
Plato would likely admire the intention behind the idea of shooting high-contrast, black-and-white photography—especially if it’s a method to cut through illusion, strip away distraction, and pursue the essence of the medium: drawing with light.
In The Republic, Plato criticizes art for being too focused on the superficial, the sensual, the copy of a copy. But if black-and-white photography deliberately removes color, abstraction, and noise to reveal underlying form, light, shadow, and structure, he might see it as an act of purification.
You’re moving away from the material world’s seductive appearances and toward something closer to the Form of Light—using the medium to ascend toward clarity, order, and truth.
Plato might say: “This photographer is not chasing appearances. He is seeking the invisible behind the visible.”
2. Drawing with Light = Returning to the Form
Photography literally means drawing with light. And Plato believed true beauty and truth reside in form and essence, not the fleeting material surface.
By emphasizing light and shadow, and removing the “noise” of color or over-complexity, you’re pointing toward eternal structures—geometry, rhythm, proportion. That aligns with Plato’s belief in mathematical harmony and essential forms as the root of beauty.
Your method could be seen as an attempt to bypass illusion and imitate not the things of this world, but the timeless logic behind them.
3. A Modern Allegory of the Cave
In some ways, your photography could function as a modern allegory of the cave:
Most people see the world as it is—chaotic, cluttered, full of color and stimulation (shadows on the cave wall).
Your camera becomes the instrument that turns the soul around (like the philosopher’s ascent out of the cave).
High contrast black and white becomes a method to reveal what’s essential—the light itself, rather than the forms it bounces off.
You’re not just capturing light—you’re teaching people to see it.
4. Would Plato Approve?
Yes—if your work is aimed at elevating perception, leading viewers away from mere appearance and toward truth, form, and light itself, Plato would likely see you as a rare artist who uses the medium properly.
He might still be skeptical of photography as a “copy of a copy,” but he’d respect the philosophical discipline behind your approach.
Your photography, in Platonic terms, isn’t mimesis (mere imitation)—it’s anamnesis: a remembering of the light.
Archangel Uriel is often known as the Archangel of Wisdom, Light, and Truth. His name means “God is my Light” or “Fire of God” in Hebrew. Though not as commonly mentioned in the canonical texts of the Bible as Michael, Gabriel, or Raphael, Uriel plays a significant role in various apocryphal, mystical, and esoteric traditions.
🔥 Who is Uriel?
Name Meaning: Uriel = אוּרִיאֵל (ʾŪrīʾēl) = “God is my light” or “Flame of God”
Role: Bringer of divine wisdom, interpreter of prophecy, angel of repentance and transformation
Element: Often associated with fire or earth, depending on the tradition
Color: Red, gold, or amber
Direction: North (in many angelic systems, especially in Hermetic Qabalah)
📖 Biblical and Apocryphal Sources
Uriel does not appear by name in the Protestant or Catholic Bible, but is prominent in:
2 Esdras / 4 Ezra (Apocrypha): Uriel is sent by God to answer the prophet Ezra’s deep questions about the fate of mankind and divine justice.
Book of Enoch: Uriel is one of the seven archangels. He warns Noah about the coming flood.
Christian Mysticism (especially Eastern Orthodox and Anglican traditions): Revered as an angel of repentance and enlightenment.
Occult and Kabbalistic Texts: Linked to Hod, the sphere of intellect and communication on the Tree of Life.
✨ Symbolism
Fire: Purification, truth, passion, illumination
Scroll or Book: Represents divine wisdom and understanding
Flame or Lantern: Guidance through darkness, inner transformation
Sword or Staff: Justice and the cutting away of ignorance
🙏 Praying to Uriel
People often call on Uriel when seeking:
Insight in decision-making
Divine truth and understanding
Help in solving problems or unlocking spiritual mysteries
Emotional healing and release of anger
Simple Invocation:
“Archangel Uriel, bring your light into my mind and heart. Illuminate my path with wisdom and help me see truth clearly.”
🧠 Uriel & Philosophy
Uriel can be seen as the archetype of the philosopher-angel—a divine mind that guides seekers toward clarity and revelation. He’s the spark of Logos, the inner fire that calls one to rise above ignorance and align with divine will.
In that sense, Uriel reflects both the Socratic spirit of inquiry and the Heraclitean flame of inner transformation.
What’s popping, people? It’s Dante, getting my morning started here in Center City, Philadelphia. Headed to the Schuylkill River Trail, starting the day with a nice walk by the river. This is my perfect start — just go straight to the water, take a long walk, and make some photographs.
You know, walking is kinda boring when you think about it. You’re just walking. Like, who wants to just walk around all day? But when you pair it with photography and you’ve got a camera in your hand, it’s like — wow. Thank God for photography. Like, genuinely. With photography, I feel unstoppable. I feel like I’ve got a sword that I wield, cutting through all the noise, all the chaos on the streets.
I actually feel the most alive when I’m surrounded by chaos. It takes me back to when I was on the front lines in Jericho, photographing Palestinians getting shot at with live ammo at the border. Israelis shooting at me. It’s kinda crazy thinking about it — did I really do that? How did I do that?
I’m 29 now. I was 20 then. I think as you get older, your brain develops or something. You start making more decisions, thinking too much. You get in your head. But back then? Man, I was just like — fuck it. Full force. I ran through that desert.
Was I scared? Of course. But you can be scared and still push through it. You overcome cowardice with courage. With spiritedness. With thumos.
The Lion Within
When I think of thumos, I think of the lion inside you that wants to roar. That’s what we should be channeling as photographers. Because how you engage with the world is what gets reflected in your photos. That energy, that vitality — that’s everything. Without power, how are you ever going to cultivate curiosity?
Photography takes vitality. When I have vitality, I have clarity. So let me break this down practically — how to increase your vitality.
Barefoot Shoes
First off, barefoot shoes. Game changer. Been wearing them for over two years now. I feel so much more connected to the ground, to the earth. I feel the sidewalk under me right now. It’s like saying fuck you to the system that wants you domesticated. The zoo-animal lifestyle. But barefoot, I feel wild again.
And on a physical level, they’re fixing my posture, strengthening my feet, calves, back, spine. My gait is stronger. I feel more in tune with my body.
Fasting
And I fast. Not even for health reasons anymore. I fast because I feel more spiritually connected when I’m fasted. I do one meal a day. When I’m fasted and walking the streets, I feel this connection between my gut, my heart, and my mind — that’s the trinity for me.
Since I started fasting, I have zero decision fatigue. I’m just locked in. Laser focused. I notice patterns in nature, in people. I see the light, and the moments just come to me. I respond fast. Intuitively.
Street photography is spontaneous. You want your intuition to be sharp. That vagus nerve runs from your gut to your heart to your brain — 80% of the signals come from the gut up. You’re not living in your fucking head. You’re a biped. You stand upright. You walk. Your head is on a swivel. But everything begins in the body.
Delete Instagram
If you’re waking up in bed and checking Instagram first thing, posting for likes, scrolling — that’s like waking up, taking a shit in your hands, and smearing it on your face. In your eyes. In your mouth.
Why would you wanna start your day like that?
Delete your Instagram. For real. What are you even using it for? It’s cancer for a photographer. When you photograph for yourself, purely for yourself, without an audience, that’s when you find your real voice.
Even the praise, the followers, the likes — it’s all just noise. I removed comments. I removed likes. I don’t care what anyone thinks. And that’s exactly why I can photograph with clarity now. I only focus on what matters to me.
Publish Independently
If you want to publish your work, good. I think you should. But do it for yourself.
I use WordPress.org and Bluehost to host my own site — my name dot com — and I use the Astra theme. It’s minimal. Like Tumblr in 2012. I post my photos, write my thoughts, and move on. It’s part of the discipline.
Wake up. Walk. Make pictures. Cull. Post. Repeat. That’s my practice. That’s how I stay clear.
Courage Is Everything
Courage — it comes from cor, meaning heart. With courage, you go into the unknown, into danger, into chaos, and come out unscathed. Like David walking up to Goliath with a slingshot, armored with God.
When you’re out in the world with your camera, that spiritedness matters. Tap into something bigger than yourself. For me, I’m a disciple of Christ. Not even “Christian” — I don’t like that term. I just follow Christ. That’s it.
It means I’m connected to the source. There’s a light in all of us. If you believe in Providence — not just believe, but know — then you move with courage. You don’t fear death.
Saint Michael the Archangel is on my shoulder. If God wills it, I’ll fall into the water right now. I’m gonna walk on the edge of danger. Because that’s the only life worth living. A life of vitality, danger, exploration. Through photography, I conquer the day. I give my life meaning and zest.
The Next Photo Is the Best Photo
I don’t dwell on yesterday’s shots. I’m not thinking about tomorrow’s. I’m right here. Right now. Observing the light bounce off the water. Just making pictures. Snapshotting my way through life.
If you haven’t been getting the results you want in photography, I’ve got the answer: add some limits. Give yourself structure. Challenges. Make things uncomfortable again.
I used to shoot comfortably for years. But the past three? I made it harder. I changed everything. Destroyed my old habits. Rebuilt new ones. And that’s where the growth happened.
The Ricoh GR Method
Go to dantesisofo.com, hit the Start Here page. You’ll find my guide to the Ricoh GR.
Use:
Small JPEG
High contrast black and white
No editing
No excuses
Follow my autistic step-by-step breakdown. Do it for a month. Hell, even a week. You’ll start seeing photos that actually resonate with you. All through constraint.
Photography is light and shadow. Strip everything else away. Return to play. Return to joy.
Play and Joy
Adults stop playing. But play is the superpower.
When you’re in the street and you treat the world like a playground — when you’re tinkering, exploring, snapshotting — that’s where your voice shows up.
Each day, I go back to the drawing board. I reset to Day One. I don’t let the complexity overwhelm me. I find infinite beauty in the mundane.
Can you walk the same block every day and still find something beautiful?
That’s the real challenge. That’s the name of the game.
Vitality Through Simplicity
I joined a boxing gym. Not to become a pro. Just to play. Just to move.
No more counting macros. No more split routines. Just:
Barefoot walking
Pull-ups
Push-ups
Dips
Squats
Shadowboxing
My recovery drink? Raw honey, raw milk, and salt. Shake it up. Drink after class. Deep sleep. Instant recovery. Wake up and repeat.
My morning? Espresso and a spoon of raw honey with salt. Hydrate. Simple protocols. Huge results.
Fasting isn’t even about health anymore. It’s about photographic clarity. I just feel better fasted. Gut over mind. Body over mind.
Shoot From the Gut
You ever have gut issues? Feel like shit? That’s real. Gut health drives everything. Emotions, anxiety, clarity.
Photography? It’s gut work. Not brain work. People think it’s visual, cerebral, technical. Nah. Shoot from the gut. Shoot from the heart. That’s how your soul shows up.
Use the LCD screen. It’s 2025. Who’s still using a viewfinder?
Repetition Is Key
Treat photography like reps at the gym. The more you shoot, the more you grow. Simple.
More walking = more seeing
More seeing = more photographs
More photographs = more improvement
More improvement = more curiosity
That curiosity becomes courage. That courage becomes confidence. That confidence becomes joy.
Let Go of the Seriousness
Stop trying to be some visual storyteller with a vest and a “youth in the city” thesis. That shit is boring. Same photos. Same art. Same dead-eyed gallery nonsense.
Let go. Have fun. This is for joy. For you.
Photography has given me an insatiable love for life. I haven’t missed a sunrise in three years. I haven’t sat down in three years. I just keep moving. I’m working on something bigger than me.
My project? Archive Philadelphia.
That’s it. No subheading. No artist statement. Just the truth.
Sketchbooks and Simplicity
You don’t need a publisher. Get a Canon Selphy CP1500. Print 4x6s. Tape them into a sketchbook. That’s your book. Done.
That’s enough for me.
Philly Is Paradise
Fairmount Waterworks — this is paradise. Peace and clarity in nature. I can walk the forest trails, be deep in the woods, then snap into the chaos of 15th and Chestnut. Gritty. Raw. Real.
Philadelphia is just small enough to walk every day and still find newness. My new philosophy? I have zero desire to travel. There’s so much here.
When you find peace in where you are, that’s power. That’s freedom.
I move forward with purpose every single day towards an endless and infinite goal of exploring the unknown. My goal has never been to tell “visual stories” or say anything with my photography. I simply thrive on the frontlines of life, out in the open world, in a perpetual flow state.
I don’t think, I just do.
I exist outside the passage of time.
I’ve been in an endless flow state since I was 17 in 2014 when I first started to take pictures on the street.
What’s poppin, people? It’s Dante. I’m walking along Boathouse Row right now, shirt off, sun blazing, barefoot in my Vibram Five Fingers, soaking in the beauty of the Schuylkill River Trail in Philly. Just a beautiful space.
What Is Primal Fitness?
So today I’m thinking about primal fitness. What is primal health? What are primal goals? This is interesting because for me, it started with something simple: removing shoes. Just marching.
For two years now, I’ve been wearing these barefoot shoes — Vibram Five Finger LX knits — and that was the beginning of this primal health journey.
Meanwhile, I see people biking and running and rattling their bones, sitting on uncomfortable seats, giving themselves hemorrhoids. Just being unnatural. And I’m just walking — upright, slow, strong gait, eyes up, shoulders back, chest open.
Walking Into the Light
No sunscreen. Shirt off. Five-inch Lululemon “License to Train” shorts. Rolled up. Skin exposed.
Why? Because I chase the sun. I literally cross the street to stay in the light.
Sunlight is the source of my circadian rhythm.
All these people running around trying to burn calories. But to me, calories are the ultimate scam. If you’re obese or metabolically sick, here’s the simple fix:
Buy barefoot shoes
Walk in the sunlight
Do it all day
Forget the gym. Forget cardio tracking. Just reconnect with natural movement.
My Life Goals Are Primal
Never miss a sunrise again. Wake with the sun. Sleep with the sun.
Never sit down during the day. I’m either standing or walking. Always.
Even if I’m working at the computer, I have a standing desk. If you’re wondering where Dante is — I’m outside, standing in the sun.
So by the time the day ends? I’m tired. I sleep deep.
Weighted Walking Is Superior to Lifting
You don’t need a gym membership.
Walk barefoot
Add a weighted vest
I use a 40-pound Rogue plate carrier. That builds:
Feet
Calves
Quads
Core
Posture
Spine
My core is naturally tight when I walk. I’m aligned. I’m upright.
We’ve been sold chairs, cars, offices — and they’re killing our vitality.
My Diet Is Simple
One meal a day.
Red meat. At least 3 pounds.
Raw milk + raw honey for electrolytes.
Fermented kimchi before meat.
Pasture-raised organic eggs — the expensive kind.
That’s it.
No decision fatigue. Just fuel.
I buy half cows from Amish farmers in Lancaster. Hundreds of pounds in my deep freezer. I don’t think about food. I eat for strength, clarity, and testosterone.
Why I Fast
I don’t fast for weight loss.
I fast for mental clarity.
I fast so I can:
Be sharp
Be intuitive
Recognize patterns
Photograph with instinct
Fasting puts me in a clairvoyant state.
I eat one meal, right before the sun sets. Every day.
Fitness for me is about more than just working out—it’s about staying connected to my body and pushing myself in new ways. My routine mixes strength, flexibility, and endurance exercises, while keeping things fun and engaging. Whether you’re just starting or already into fitness, I think these exercises can help you level up your training.
From warming up with the Kendama to using a weighted vest for extra resistance, every part of this routine has a purpose. I’ll break down what I do, why I do it, and how you can use these moves to get stronger and feel better.
A Japanese kendama is a traditional skill toy that consists of a wooden handle (called the “ken”), a ball (called the “tama”), and a string connecting the two. The handle has three cups—two on the sides and one at the bottom—and a spike (known as the “kensaki”) at the top. The ball has a hole in it that can fit onto the spike.
The objective of the kendama game is to use a series of precise hand movements to catch the ball on the cups or spike, performing various tricks and combinations. It’s a popular toy in Japan that dates back centuries and has gained international popularity, with kendama players and enthusiasts showcasing increasingly complex tricks. It is a test of hand-eye coordination, balance, and concentration.
I find that by starting out with something fun to get my body moving makes my fitness routine not only more entertaining, but more zen! I treat everything fitness related like physical meditation and the use of the Kendama trains the connection between my mind and body.
2. Simple Stretching
Before I do my training, I keep the stretching light just to get the blood pumping.
Quad Stretch for Flexibility and Balance
The quad stretch is an essential addition to any fitness routine, especially for those looking to improve flexibility in their legs. This stretch targets the quadriceps, the large muscles on the front of your thighs, and helps to release tension built up from activities like running, cycling, or weightlifting.
To perform this stretch, stand on one leg and pull your opposite foot towards your glutes, using your hand to hold the foot in place. Keep your back straight, engage your core for balance, and hold the stretch for 20-30 seconds before switching sides. This move not only enhances your leg flexibility but also works on improving your balance and stability.
Incorporating the quad stretch into your post-workout routine helps with muscle recovery and reduces the risk of injury, making it a must-do for overall mobility and athletic performance.
Knee-to-Chest Stretch for Hip and Lower Back Flexibility
The knee-to-chest stretch is a great way to increase flexibility in your hips and lower back. This simple move helps relieve tension in the glutes and can also improve your balance. To perform this stretch, stand on one leg and pull the opposite knee up towards your chest, holding it with both hands. Keep your core engaged and your back straight for proper alignment. Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, then switch legs.
This stretch is excellent for warming up before a workout or cooling down after an intense session, helping to reduce stiffness and improve mobility.
Standing Forward Bend for Hamstring and Lower Back Flexibility
The standing forward bend, also known as Uttanasana in yoga, is an excellent stretch for lengthening the hamstrings, calves, and lower back. This movement helps to release tension in the posterior chain while also improving blood flow and flexibility.
To perform this stretch, stand with your feet together or hip-width apart and slowly bend forward from your hips, allowing your head to hang toward the floor. Keep your legs straight but avoid locking your knees, and reach for your toes or the floor. Hold the position for 20-30 seconds, breathing deeply to release tension.
Incorporating the standing forward bend into your routine is great for relieving lower back tightness and improving overall flexibility in your legs. It’s perfect as part of a warm-up, cool-down, or even during a break from sitting.
Standing Backbend for Chest and Back Stretch
The standing backbend is a great movement to open up the chest, stretch the abdomen, and engage the muscles in the back. This exercise is excellent for improving posture, increasing spinal flexibility, and releasing tension from sitting or forward-slouching positions.
To perform this movement, start in a standing position with your feet together or hip-width apart. As you inhale, raise your arms overhead and gently lean back, allowing your chest to open up and your arms to fall slightly behind you. Keep your legs strong and stable to support your lower back and hold the pose for 10-20 seconds. Remember to breathe deeply as you stretch.
This movement is perfect for warming up or cooling down, and it can help improve posture and relieve tightness in the chest and shoulders.
Downward-Facing Dog for Full-Body Stretch and Strength
The downward-facing dog is a fundamental stretch that targets multiple areas of the body. It stretches the hamstrings, calves, and lower back while simultaneously strengthening the arms, shoulders, and core. This pose also helps to improve flexibility and blood circulation, making it a great addition to any fitness routine.
To perform this pose, start on all fours with your hands slightly in front of your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Press your palms into the mat and lift your hips toward the ceiling, creating an inverted ‘V’ shape with your body. Keep your arms and legs straight while pushing your heels toward the ground. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds, focusing on deep breaths.
Incorporating the downward-facing dog into your routine enhances both flexibility and strength, making it a powerful tool for improving overall body function.
Cobra Pose for Spinal Strength and Chest Opener
The cobra pose is an effective stretch to strengthen your back and open up your chest. This movement is great for increasing spinal flexibility while stretching the abdomen and improving posture. It also helps relieve tension in the lower back and shoulders.
To perform this pose, lie flat on your stomach with your hands placed under your shoulders. Press into your palms and gently lift your chest off the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body. Ensure your legs remain grounded, and lift your head to gaze slightly upward. Hold the pose for 15-20 seconds, taking deep breaths.
The cobra pose is perfect for alleviating lower back stiffness and enhancing spinal mobility. Incorporating this stretch into your routine will improve overall back strength and flexibility.
Child’s Pose for Relaxation and Back Stretch
The child’s pose is a calming stretch that focuses on lengthening the back and opening the hips and shoulders. This pose promotes relaxation while gently stretching the spine and releasing tension in the upper body. It’s an excellent way to cool down after a workout or reset during a break.
To perform this pose, kneel on the floor with your big toes touching and your knees spread apart. Extend your arms forward as you lower your chest towards the ground, letting your forehead rest on the mat. Reach your hands out in front of you for a deep stretch in the shoulders and back. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds, focusing on deep, slow breaths.
Incorporating the child’s pose into your routine helps to relieve stress, stretch the spine, and improve overall flexibility.
Pigeon Pose for Hip Flexibility and Glute Stretch
The pigeon pose is an excellent stretch for improving hip flexibility and releasing tension in the glutes and lower back. It’s particularly beneficial for those who sit for extended periods or experience tightness in the hips, as it deeply stretches the hip flexors and external rotators.
To perform pigeon pose, start in a kneeling position and bring one knee forward, placing it behind your wrist, with your shin angled slightly. Extend the opposite leg straight behind you, with the top of your foot resting on the mat. Keep your hips square and lower your torso over your front leg, either staying upright or folding forward to rest on your forearms for a deeper stretch. Hold the pose for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides.
This pose is perfect for relieving tightness in the hips and glutes, improving flexibility, and promoting relaxation after intense workouts.
Tabletop Pose with Inverted Wrists for Core Stability and Wrist Strength
The tabletop pose is a foundational yoga posture that promotes core stability, proper alignment, and balance. When you invert your wrists during this pose, you also target and strengthen the wrists, which is especially beneficial for improving flexibility and resilience in the forearms and wrists. This variation adds an extra layer of challenge, helping to build wrist strength over time.
To perform this variation, start on all fours with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Invert your wrists so that your fingers point toward your knees, keeping your palms flat on the mat. Ensure your back stays flat, neck neutral, and engage your core. Distribute your weight evenly across your hands and knees, and focus on controlled, steady breaths while feeling the stretch in your wrists.
This version of tabletop pose is excellent for improving wrist flexibility and strength while continuing to work on your core and alignment. It’s perfect for preparing your wrists for more demanding exercises or stretches.
Benefits of Liquid Chalk for Improved Grip
Liquid chalk is a game-changer for anyone involved in strength training, rock climbing, gymnastics, or any activity requiring a strong, reliable grip. Unlike traditional powdered chalk, liquid chalk offers several unique advantages that can enhance performance and reduce mess.
Enhanced Grip Liquid chalk provides an excellent, long-lasting grip, reducing the chances of slipping during lifts or exercises. It’s particularly effective for activities like deadlifts, pull-ups, or climbing, where grip strength is crucial. The quick-drying formula leaves a smooth, secure layer on your hands, allowing you to focus on your performance without worrying about losing grip.
Less Mess One of the standout benefits of liquid chalk is its low mess. Traditional chalk can create a cloud of dust and leave residue all over equipment and floors, whereas liquid chalk dries on your hands and doesn’t transfer as much to surfaces, keeping your gym or workout area cleaner.
Sweat Resistance Liquid chalk is sweat-resistant, making it ideal for long training sessions or hot environments. The antibacterial properties also make it a more hygienic option compared to communal chalk bags or blocks.
Long-Lasting Application Since liquid chalk dries quickly and forms a lasting layer, you don’t need to reapply it as frequently as traditional chalk. A single application can last for an entire workout, helping you stay focused on your movements without interruptions.
Better for Indoor Use If you train in a shared space or gym, liquid chalk is a courteous choice because it doesn’t leave behind the same level of dust as traditional chalk. This can help maintain a cleaner environment and avoid irritating others who might not appreciate the mess that powdered chalk can create.
Incorporating liquid chalk into your routine ensures you maintain a solid grip, improve your performance, and keep your workout area tidy.
Rogue 40lb Plate Carrier: A Game Changer for Strength Training
If you’re looking to add an extra edge to your workouts, the Rogue 40lb Plate Carrier is a tool that can take your fitness routine to the next level. Designed for durability and maximum mobility, this weighted vest provides the ideal combination of functionality and comfort for strength training, endurance workouts, and even cardio.
What Makes the Rogue 40lb Plate Carrier Stand Out?
Built for Intensity The Rogue Plate Carrier is specifically designed for high-intensity workouts, featuring durable materials that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Whether you’re running, performing bodyweight exercises, or simply going for a walk, the added 40lb weight gives you the extra challenge your muscles need to grow stronger.
Comfortable Fit One of the standout features of this plate carrier is its ergonomic design. It’s built with adjustable straps, allowing it to sit snugly on your body without bouncing or causing discomfort. This makes it ideal for extended workout sessions. The minimalist design ensures you’re not weighed down by bulky padding while still providing enough support to handle the weight.
Versatile Use Whether you’re training for a Tough Mudder, prepping for military service, or just trying to improve your fitness level, this plate carrier can adapt to your goals. You can wear it for calisthenics, CrossFit, hiking, or simply to increase the intensity of your daily movements. The 40lb plates are easily removable, so you can adjust the weight as needed.
Why 40lbs? The 40lb weight is a sweet spot for those looking to improve their strength and endurance without overburdening their bodies. It’s enough to push your limits but still manageable for longer workout periods. For those just starting with plate carriers, it offers a challenging yet attainable goal.
Final Thoughts
The Rogue 40lb Plate Carrier is an excellent investment for anyone looking to elevate their fitness routine. It combines durability, comfort, and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of workouts. Whether you’re focusing on strength, endurance, or just adding a new challenge to your daily routine, this plate carrier is a reliable and effective option.
3. Pull-Ups
Benefits of Weighted Vest Pull-Ups and Chin-Ups
Adding a weighted vest to your pull-ups and chin-ups can significantly boost your strength and muscle development. By increasing the resistance, you force your muscles to work harder, leading to greater gains in strength, endurance, and muscle growth. Here are a few key benefits:
Increased Strength The extra weight challenges your muscles beyond bodyweight alone, helping to build upper body strength, especially in your back, shoulders, and arms.
Enhanced Muscle Growth With the added resistance from the vest, your muscles are forced to adapt, resulting in hypertrophy (muscle growth). Over time, this leads to more defined and stronger muscles.
Improved Endurance By incorporating weighted pull-ups and chin-ups, you train your muscles to handle heavier loads, which also improves your endurance during bodyweight exercises.
Progression in Bodyweight Exercises Using a weighted vest helps you progress faster in your bodyweight exercises. Once you’re able to perform pull-ups or chin-ups with the vest, regular bodyweight movements will feel much easier, allowing you to increase reps or intensity.
Core Activation The added weight from the vest engages your core more effectively, helping to stabilize your body during the movement and promoting overall core strength.
Incorporating weighted pull-ups and chin-ups into your fitness routine is a great way to break through plateaus and challenge your body in new ways. Just be sure to gradually increase the weight and maintain proper form to avoid injury.
4. Farmer’s Walk
The Farmer’s Walk is a simple yet highly effective exercise that targets multiple muscle groups while improving grip strength, endurance, and overall conditioning. Often used in strongman competitions and functional fitness, this exercise involves picking up heavy weights in each hand and walking a set distance or for a set time.
Key Benefits of the Farmer’s Walk:
Full-Body Workout The Farmer’s Walk works nearly every muscle in your body. It engages your core to maintain stability, strengthens your shoulders, arms, and grip, and activates your legs and glutes as you walk. This compound movement offers a highly efficient workout in a short period of time.
Grip Strength Carrying heavy weights for extended periods significantly improves grip strength, which is essential for various exercises like deadlifts, pull-ups, and rows. The Farmer’s Walk forces your hands and forearms to work hard to hold the weights, making it one of the best exercises to boost grip endurance.
Improved Core Stability As you walk with the heavy weights, your core works to stabilize your body and prevent swaying from side to side. This not only strengthens your abdominal muscles but also improves your overall balance and posture.
Increased Endurance The Farmer’s Walk also serves as a great conditioning exercise, improving both cardiovascular and muscular endurance. The combination of strength and endurance work in this exercise makes it highly efficient for improving stamina.
Functional Strength The Farmer’s Walk mimics real-life activities like carrying groceries or heavy objects, making it a highly functional movement. By training this way, you build practical strength that translates to daily activities and enhances overall physical capability.
How to Perform the Farmer’s Walk:
Start by standing between two heavy weights (dumbbells, kettlebells, or Farmer’s Walk handles).
Bend your knees, grip the weights tightly, and stand up tall.
Walk in a straight line, keeping your core engaged and your shoulders back.
Focus on maintaining good posture throughout the movement.
Walk for a set distance (20-50 meters) or for a set time (30-60 seconds), then place the weights down safely.
Incorporating the Farmer’s Walk into your routine will build strength, endurance, and stability, making it a powerful tool for anyone looking to improve overall fitness.
5. Dips
Dips are one of the best exercises for building upper body strength, particularly targeting the chest, shoulders, and triceps. Whether performed on parallel bars, rings, or a bench, dips are a compound movement that effectively engages multiple muscle groups while improving stability and functional strength.
Key Benefits of Dips:
Build Chest and Triceps Dips primarily work the pectorals (chest muscles) and triceps (back of the arms), making them an excellent exercise for building upper body size and strength. The deeper you lower into the dip, the more you stretch and activate the chest muscles. The pressing motion engages the triceps, helping to develop strong, defined arms.
Strengthen Shoulders As you perform dips, your deltoids (shoulder muscles) work hard to stabilize and support the movement. This helps improve shoulder strength and mobility, which is essential for many upper body exercises and functional movements.
Core Activation While dips are primarily an upper body exercise, they also require significant core engagement to maintain stability throughout the movement. By keeping your body upright and controlled, your core muscles (abs and lower back) remain activated, improving balance and coordination.
Versatility Dips can be easily modified to suit various fitness levels. Beginners can perform bench dips or use assistance bands, while advanced athletes can add extra weight using a dip belt or weighted vest to increase resistance. This versatility makes dips a great exercise for everyone, from beginners to seasoned lifters.
Functional Strength Dips improve functional pushing strength, which translates to real-world movements like pushing objects or performing daily tasks. By strengthening the chest, shoulders, and triceps together, you improve the way these muscles work in unison.
How to Perform Dips:
Parallel Bar Dips
Grip the bars and lift yourself up, keeping your arms straight and core tight.
Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping your chest slightly forward, and your elbows close to your sides.
Lower until your shoulders are below your elbows, then press up by extending your arms to return to the starting position.
Bench Dips (Beginner)
Sit on the edge of a bench with your hands beside your hips.
Slide your hips off the bench and support your body with your hands, feet extended in front of you.
Lower your body by bending your elbows, then push back up to the starting position.
Incorporating dips into your workout routine will lead to greater upper body strength, muscle definition, and improved functional fitness. Whether you’re focusing on bodyweight training or looking to build mass, dips are a must-have in any strength program.
6. Zottman Curls
Zottman Curls are a powerful exercise that target both the biceps and forearms, helping you build balanced arm strength. Named after strongman George Zottman, this movement combines a standard curl with a reverse curl, making it one of the most effective exercises for developing both the upper and lower arms.
Key Benefits of Zottman Curls:
Biceps and Forearm Engagement The unique combination of curling up with a supinated grip (palms facing up) and lowering with a pronated grip(palms facing down) allows you to target both the biceps brachii and brachioradialis. This dual focus makes Zottman curls superior to traditional curls for building total arm strength.
Improved Grip Strength The reverse curl portion of the exercise heavily engages the forearms, leading to improved grip strength. Strong forearms are essential for many compound lifts, like deadlifts and pull-ups, and help with everyday activities that require grip endurance.
Balanced Arm Development By working both the biceps and forearms in one motion, Zottman Curls help prevent imbalances in arm strength and aesthetics. Many lifters focus heavily on bicep curls but overlook the importance of forearm training, and this exercise ensures both areas are developed equally.
Joint Stability The rotational movement in Zottman Curls helps improve wrist and elbow stability. This added joint engagement can lead to better control during other upper body exercises, reducing the risk of injury.
How to Perform Zottman Curls:
Stand tall with a dumbbell in each hand, arms extended by your sides, palms facing forward (supinated grip).
Curl the dumbbells up toward your shoulders, contracting your biceps as you lift. Keep your elbows close to your body.
Once you reach the top of the curl, rotate your wrists so your palms face downward (pronated grip).
Slowly lower the dumbbells back to the starting position with your palms facing down, engaging your forearms during the descent.
Rotate your wrists back to the starting position (palms facing up) and repeat for the desired number of reps.
Tips for Zottman Curls:
Use a controlled tempo during both the curl and the lowering phase to maximize time under tension.
Start with lighter weights than you would use for standard bicep curls, as the reverse curl portion can be more challenging for the forearms.
Focus on maintaining proper form, especially when rotating your wrists, to prevent strain on the joints.
Incorporating Zottman Curls into your routine is an excellent way to build balanced arm strength, improve grip, and achieve overall arm development. This exercise can help take your arm training to the next level by focusing on both bicep and forearm growth.
7. Pistol Squats
Weighted Pistol Squats are an advanced variation of the bodyweight pistol squat, adding extra resistance to one of the most effective single-leg exercises. This move not only builds leg strength but also improves balance, coordination, and mobility. By performing pistol squats with added weight, you take the challenge to the next level, further developing your lower body muscles.
Key Benefits of Weighted Pistol Squats:
Strengthen the Entire Lower Body Pistol squats primarily target the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, with secondary engagement from the calves. The added weight increases the resistance on these muscles, making it a great exercise for building muscular strength and endurance in the lower body.
Improve Balance and Stability Since pistol squats are performed on one leg, they require significant balance and core engagement. The unilateral nature of the movement helps correct muscle imbalances between legs and strengthens stabilizer muscles around the ankles, knees, and hips. Weighted pistol squats take this stability work even further by demanding more from your balance under load.
Increased Flexibility and Mobility Pistol squats demand a large range of motion, which can improve hip, knee, and ankle flexibility. Performing the weighted version encourages greater depth in the squat, helping you achieve better mobility over time.
Core Engagement To maintain balance and control while holding extra weight, your core muscles are heavily involved during the pistol squat. This helps to improve overall core strength and stability, which is beneficial for nearly all athletic movements.
Functional Strength Weighted pistol squats mimic real-life movements, such as stepping or lunging, making them a functional exercisethat improves everyday strength. They help develop strength that translates to various sports, activities, and daily tasks.
How to Perform Weighted Pistol Squats:
Hold a weight (dumbbell, kettlebell, or weight plate) close to your chest or at arm’s length in front of you.
Stand on one leg and extend the other leg straight out in front of you, keeping it off the floor.
Begin lowering your body into a squat by bending the standing leg, keeping your core engaged and your chest upright.
Lower until your glutes come close to your heel (or as low as your mobility allows), then push back up through your heel to return to standing.
Repeat for the desired number of reps before switching legs.
Tips for Weighted Pistol Squats:
Start with light weights or perform bodyweight pistol squats first to master the movement before progressing to added weight.
Use a slow and controlled tempo to ensure proper form and muscle engagement throughout the entire range of motion.
If needed, use a box or bench behind you to sit on for support as you work up to the full range of motion.
Incorporating weighted pistol squats into your routine is a great way to build leg strength, enhance balance, and improve mobility. This challenging movement delivers significant benefits, making it a staple for those seeking both power and flexibility in their lower body training.
8. Lateral Raises
Lateral raises are one of the most effective isolation exercises for targeting the lateral deltoids (the side part of the shoulders), helping to build width, strength, and definition in your upper body. This simple yet powerful movement can help create the coveted “V-shape” by broadening your shoulders and improving overall shoulder stability and aesthetics.
Key Benefits of Lateral Raises:
Target the Lateral Deltoids Lateral raises specifically isolate the lateral (side) deltoid muscles, which are often underdeveloped compared to the front and rear delts. This exercise focuses on the side of the shoulders, helping to build width and enhance the appearance of broader shoulders.
Improved Shoulder Strength Regularly performing lateral raises strengthens the shoulder joint, improving overall shoulder stability. This can help reduce the risk of injury during other upper body exercises and enhance performance in compound movements like overhead presses or bench presses.
Aesthetic Shoulder Definition Lateral raises help sculpt and define the shoulder muscles, giving them a more pronounced and rounded shape. By isolating the lateral delts, you can achieve the sought-after “capped” shoulder look, contributing to a well-rounded physique.
Core Engagement To perform lateral raises with proper form, you need to maintain a stable posture, which means engaging your core muscles to prevent swinging or compensating with other parts of your body. This not only improves form but also provides a secondary benefit of activating your core.
Versatility Lateral raises can be performed using dumbbells, resistance bands, or cables, making them a highly versatile exercise. You can easily adjust the resistance to suit your fitness level, whether you’re a beginner or advanced lifter.
How to Perform Lateral Raises:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, holding a pair of dumbbells by your sides with your palms facing your body.
Keeping your elbows slightly bent, slowly raise your arms out to the sides until they are parallel to the floor. Your palms should be facing down at the top of the movement.
Pause briefly at the top, then slowly lower the weights back to the starting position.
Ensure your body remains still throughout the movement, and avoid swinging the weights or using momentum to lift them.
Tips for Lateral Raises:
Start with light weights to ensure proper form and avoid shoulder strain.
Focus on a slow and controlled tempo to maximize tension on the deltoids.
Keep your shoulders down and relaxed throughout the movement to avoid engaging the traps too much.
Avoid raising the dumbbells above shoulder height, as this can reduce tension on the lateral deltoids and put unnecessary strain on the shoulder joint.
Incorporating lateral raises into your shoulder routine will help you build strong, well-defined shoulders, improve shoulder stability, and enhance the overall symmetry of your upper body.
9. Push-Ups
Push-ups are one of the most effective bodyweight exercises for building upper body strength, endurance, and stability. They target multiple muscle groups, including the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core, while requiring no equipment. With various push-up variations, you can emphasize different muscle groups and adjust the difficulty to match your fitness level.
Key Benefits of Push-Ups:
Strengthens the Upper Body Push-ups primarily target the pectorals (chest muscles), deltoids (shoulders), and triceps, making them an excellent exercise for developing upper body strength and size. Different variations can shift the focus to specific muscle groups.
Core Engagement Since push-ups require you to maintain a plank position, your core muscles (abdominals, obliques, and lower back) are engaged throughout the movement to stabilize your body. This makes push-ups a great exercise for building core strength.
Functional Strength Push-ups mimic real-life pushing movements, making them a functional exercise that improves your ability to perform everyday tasks. They also contribute to better shoulder stability and joint health.
Standard Push-Up
The standard push-up is the classic variation that works the chest, shoulders, and triceps evenly.
How to perform:
Start in a plank position with your hands slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, and your feet together or hip-width apart.
Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.
Lower until your chest almost touches the floor, then push back up to the starting position.
Wide Push-Up
The wide push-up places greater emphasis on the chest muscles, as the wider hand placement recruits more pectoral engagement.
How to perform:
Start in a plank position with your hands placed wider than shoulder-width apart.
Lower your body by bending your elbows out to the sides, keeping your body in a straight line.
Push back up to the starting position.
Tip: Avoid letting your elbows flare out too much to prevent shoulder strain.
Diamond Push-Up
The diamond push-up is a more challenging variation that shifts the focus to the triceps and inner chest. This variation requires greater strength and control.
How to perform:
Start in a plank position with your hands close together, forming a diamond shape with your index fingers and thumbs.
Lower your body by bending your elbows, keeping your elbows close to your sides.
Push back up to the starting position, focusing on triceps engagement.
Archer Push-Up
The archer push-up is an advanced variation that focuses on one arm at a time, making it an excellent exercise for building unilateral strength. It engages the chest, triceps, and core while improving balance and stability.
How to perform:
Start in a wide push-up position with your hands placed wider than shoulder-width apart.
Lower your body toward one side, bending one arm while keeping the other arm extended straight out.
Push back up and shift your body weight to the other side, lowering toward the opposite arm.
Continue alternating sides for each rep.
Tips for Push-Ups:
Keep your core engaged throughout the movement to avoid sagging hips or an arched back.
Focus on a slow and controlled tempo to maximize muscle engagement.
If you’re a beginner, you can modify by performing push-ups on your knees or against an elevated surface, like a bench or wall.
For advanced variations, you can add weight (using a weighted vest) or perform push-ups with your feet elevated to increase difficulty.
Incorporating these push-up variations into your workout routine will help you build upper body strength, improve muscle endurance, and create a well-rounded physique.
10. Squats
Weighted vest squats are an excellent way to enhance the traditional squat by adding extra resistance while maintaining the freedom of bodyweight movements. This variation increases the intensity of the exercise, challenging your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core, while also providing a great cardiovascular workout. Squatting with a weighted vest can help build muscular strength, endurance, and explosive power in the lower body.
Key Benefits of Weighted Vest Squats:
Increased Resistance for Muscle Growth By adding a weighted vest, you’re increasing the load on your lower body muscles, promoting greater muscle hypertrophy in the quads, hamstrings, and glutes. This extra resistance encourages your muscles to adapt and grow stronger over time.
Improved Core Stability The added weight from the vest requires your core muscles to work harder to stabilize your body throughout the movement. This not only strengthens your lower body but also enhances core stability and balance.
Functional Strength and Power Squats are one of the most functional movements, mimicking real-life activities such as standing, lifting, and jumping. Adding a weighted vest improves your functional strength, making your lower body stronger for daily activities and sports that require jumping, running, or lifting.
Cardiovascular and Endurance Benefits Performing squats with a weighted vest adds a cardiovascular component to the exercise, increasing your heart rate and helping to improve endurance. The additional load also forces your body to work harder, which can elevate the intensity of your workout and improve your conditioning.
Versatility and Progression Using a weighted vest allows for easy progression in your squat training. You can start with a lighter vest and gradually increase the weight as you get stronger. It’s also ideal for those who want to add resistance to squats without the need for heavy equipment like barbells or dumbbells.
How to Perform Weighted Vest Squats:
Put on the weighted vest and adjust it so it fits snugly but comfortably.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out.
Lower your body by bending your knees and pushing your hips back, as if you’re sitting into an invisible chair.
Keep your chest up, your core engaged, and your weight in your heels.
Lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground (or as low as your mobility allows), then press through your heels to stand back up to the starting position.
Repeat for the desired number of reps.
Tips for Weighted Vest Squats:
Focus on maintaining proper form throughout the movement. Keep your back straight and avoid rounding your shoulders or arching your lower back.
Start light with the vest, especially if you’re new to weighted squats, and progressively increase the weight as your strength improves.
Use a full range of motion to maximize muscle engagement, going as deep into the squat as your flexibility allows.
Maintain control throughout the movement, using a slow and steady tempo to prevent injury and maximize the effectiveness of the exercise.
Incorporating weighted vest squats into your training routine is a great way to build leg strength, improve power, and enhance cardiovascular fitness. Whether you’re training for strength, endurance, or functional fitness, this exercise is a powerful tool to help you reach your goals.
What’s poppin people? It’s Dante. I’m walking through Philly right now, fasting, following light, thinking about God. I’m headed towards the Schuylkill River Trail, the Hidden Creek, the Hidden River.
I grew up like five miles up the river, in the Wesikin Forest, on my own. I’d build teepees with sticks, bridges with stones, carry a spear trying to hunt deer, climb trees, swing from vines. And part of me misses that. I’m 29 now, living in the city, but I still feel that part of me. Like yeah, I love people, I love the city, but I thrive in nature. Especially rivers. Especially the Schuylkill.
Looking Beyond the Veil
So today I was thinking about the metaphysics of photography. Been thinking about this for a while now, especially since I started shooting differently. For like three years now I’ve been going hard with this new process: high contrast black and white JPEGs, straight out of the Ricoh GR. No editing. Just raw.
And when I raise the camera up, and I’m looking at the LCD screen, it’s almost like I’m looking beyond what I can see with just my eye. Beyond the veil.
What is Photography, Really?
So here’s the thing. What is the essence of a photograph? What is the essence of photography?
Light on surface. That’s what it is.
When you look at the word photography, it’s fos meaning light and graphe meaning writing or drawing. We’re literally drawing with light. So when I make a photograph, I’m creating an instant sketch of light.
But what brings the form to that photograph is me—positioning my physical body in a particular way, with a specific relationship to the subject and the background. I press the shutter at a specific moment. Boom. Four corners around life.
Is a Photograph Truth or a Lie?
Sometimes I think: is a photograph the truth? Or is it a lie? And really, I think it’s neither. It’s just an interpretation of what the camera saw.
Like yeah, the photographer presses the shutter, but the image is based on the optics of the lens and the sensor’s rendering of light. That’s what determines the output. That’s what fascinates me.
Especially now that I’m going deeper down the black and white rabbit hole. Black and white is already an abstraction of reality. And I think in this AI world, where we’re generating images through mimesis, imitation, from billions of photos, it’s getting wild.
The AI stuff can look so real it becomes beyond real. But I don’t think that’s the point of making pictures.
Photography is not about showing reality—it’s about showing what could be.
On the Hunt
Right now I got the Ricoh GR III. Set to AV mode. Snap focus at infinity. Aperture f/8. Overexposing by one stop.
I photograph reflected light. Off skyscrapers. Off windows. That glass—wow. That light bouncing back at me? It’s otherworldly.
That’s what I’m trying to do with my images now. Go beyond reality. Make something that hits you in your chest. Make something sublime.
What is the Sublime?
The sublime goes past beauty. Like yeah, I can frame a flower and say, “this is beautiful.” But to make a sublime image?
That taps into pathos. Into feeling. Into something deeper. When I see light reflecting off a building, when it cuts through the smog, when it enters my eyes—I feel something. I feel charged. I feel courageous. I feel bliss. That’s when I press the shutter.
Pressing the shutter is me saying yes to life.
It’s Overwhelming
Sometimes life is so beautiful it’s overwhelming. That’s what flows through me when I photograph. It’s not rational. It’s not planned. It’s just raw energy. And I channel that.
I have an insane, insatiable love for life.
That’s what I try to show in my pictures. That’s what I’m capturing.
The Light by the River
I walk to this cliff by the water and look out at the river. The Schuylkill. I think we’re naturally drawn to water. We’re mostly made of it. I just feel better by water.
When I stand there, and I see the water reflecting the light? It’s not just beautiful—it’s sublime. It overwhelms me. And I follow that feeling.
Photography has nothing to do with photography.
What I mean is… the photograph is just a reflection of how the photographer engages with life. The way I walk. The way I observe. The way I see.
The Three Traits
If you ask me, the best photographers got three traits:
Intuition
Curiosity
Courage
Intuition is that gut response. That animal instinct. You don’t think. You just feel it and press. That’s where the best shots come from. That’s where truth lives.
Yeah, I could think about the rule of thirds. I could look for leading lines. But when I follow my gut, when I don’t overthink, that’s when the most authentic stuff happens.
Seeing = Thinking
The word idea comes from the root that means to see. So to have an idea is to see clearly.
And for me, my camera is a way to manifest ideas into form. I make pictures to understand the world. To write. To draw. To sketch.
Aristotle’s Four Causes (Applied to Photography)
I read Aristotle’s Metaphysics—super dense, but I got something from it.
Material Cause: the camera, the optics, the sensor
Formal Cause: the frame, the composition
Efficient Cause: the photographer
Final Cause (Telos): the why behind it all
A photo is just light touching a sensor. But when I frame something, I give it form. That’s putting order to the chaos of life. Because life is in constant flux. Everything is moving. The light is always changing. So when I press the shutter, I say, “This is what I want to preserve.”
Autotelic Photography
Some photographers have intentions. Stories to tell. Protests to document. People to represent. And that’s beautiful.
But for me?
I’m into the autotelic approach. The photograph is the goal. It exists for itself.
I’m not chasing a project or a style. I photograph because I can. Because I have the tool. Because I’m here in 2025 with a compact camera in my hand and the light is hitting right.
I’m making images for the sake of beauty.
Reveal Your Soul
When I shoot with no expectations, when I stay detached from outcome—that’s when I feel like I reveal my soul in the photo.
You might not live forever. But at least you can make a photograph.
A photo becomes a way to remember. A way to preserve perception. A way to store soul.
Light Is Everything
I’m obsessed with light. I follow light. I photograph how it touches everything—walls, people, trees, the sidewalk.
You can never make the same photo twice because the light is never the same.
That’s why I’m always excited to shoot. Because even if life feels the same, the light never is. That means there’s always something new to see. Something sacred to notice.
If light is what created the cosmos, then maybe when I follow light—I’m following God.
Knowing God
If philosophy means “love of wisdom,” then the highest wisdom is knowing God.
And God breathed life into us. That’s inspiration. Inspirare.
When I walk in nature, I breathe deep. I’m exchanging air with the trees. That air nourishes my lungs and my spirit.
When I photograph, I feel outside of time.
I’m not worried about the past or the future. I just wake up curious. I wake up grateful. I walk. I move. I see.
I Am a Vessel
Each night is a mini death. Each morning, a mini birth. I wake up thankful. I’ve got air in my lungs, water to drink, coffee, meat in the fridge. I’m good.
I fast all day. No food digesting in me. That makes me sharper. Cleaner. My gut connects to my mind and to my eyes.
My body is the temple. I empty myself. I become a vessel.
That instinct I get in my gut—that’s what raises the camera. That’s what presses the shutter. Not my brain. My gut.
Photography is Hunting
Think of a lion. It doesn’t eat first and then go hunt. It’s fasted. It stalks. It waits. It kills. Then it feasts and chills in the sun.
That’s me.
I’m a hunter. A street photographer. Fasted. Focused. Primal.
And then when night comes, I break my fast. I eat. I rest. Just like the lion.
The Street is the Arena
Photography takes courage. You gotta go out into the open world. The street is chaos. But that’s the game.
My camera is my sword. I slice through the noise. I reflect the soul of the street.
This practice gives my life meaning. Doesn’t matter where I am—I can find joy.
And isn’t that the whole point?
Vitality and Curiosity
What is the good life?
To me, it’s a life full of vitality and curiosity.
So I walk. I look. I photograph. I feel grateful.
You don’t need a reason. You don’t need a cause.
Just photograph for the sake of photographing. That’s how you find joy.
Final Thoughts
I remember picking up the camera in high school. Wandering the woods. Shooting flowers, trees, light. Everything was fascinating.
We forget that. We get older and feel like we’ve seen it all.
But yo, stop limiting yourself. There’s infinite novelty out here.
The telos of a flower is to bloom. The telos of a photo is to just be.
I’m standing on a cliff now. The river flowing. The Fairmount Waterworks. Philly behind me.
