About Me

I'm a Minneapolis based photographer focused on weddings, portraits, and urban cityscapes. I pride myself on being a bit of an eclectic who takes an interest in all manner of people and places and travel a fair bit, so I try to include other elements of my work into my blog. My work tends to use a modern style with a mind toward drawing out the edges in life. I draw inspiration in my portraiture from Greg Gorman, Herb Ritts, Platon, and a handful of other masters of the art.

Whether your a new fan or an old friend, please be sure to leave a comment or drop me a line, I appreciate the feedback or just knowing who I'm reaching on the web. Thanks for checking out my work!

Thanks!,

Greg Benz
greg@carbonsilver.com

Romantica at the Basilica Block Party

Jul 11, 2009 Posted in Events

I first saw local band Romantica play at Cafe Barbette in Uptown, and got the chance to photograph them last night at the Basilica Block Party. The pedal Steel guitar, harmonica and the unique voice of lead singer Ben Kyle (who grew up in Belfast before Mineapolis) draw you right into the music. Check out their “America” album – My favorite songs: Fiona, I Need You Tonight, Queen of Hearts, and The National Side.

This was my 4th year in a row shooting the Block Party. Coming back to the same event several times is sort of an interesting experience because you want to keep changing things and up and try some new ideas. This year the Basilica added a 3rd stage in response to concerns that the early hours of the event can be pretty hot in July – so they set up the “happy hour” stage on the shaded side of the Basilica, which set up a great opportunity to actually shoot the bands with the church.