Archive 2025 · Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
p.1 #1Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Congratulations to DanielScott for winning Feature Thread of the Week with 5 votes - View Previous Winners
I recently visited the Chicago area, and while I was there I set up a photo session with a guy that I follow on instagram that I've wanted to photograph for a while now. He goes by Bareknuckle Sweets, and aspires to be a professional wrestler. He's a super nice guy and definitely someone I consider a new friend now. After the shoot we went to a dive bar where he bought me my first (and last) "Chicago Handshake", which was absolutely disgusting. He was at least kind enough to have one with me as well though.
Canon 5D MKIII, Canon EF 35mm f/2, Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II, lit using natural light and a reflector.
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And a bonus one taken at the bar after the session, post Chicago Handshake.
Edited on Oct 01, 2025 at 03:39 AM · View previous versions
Sep 29, 2025 at 10:19 PM
p.1 #2Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
These images are absolutely amazing. True mastership of model photography. I like the B&W ones in particular.
-Charles
-Charles
Sep 30, 2025 at 02:52 AM
p.1 #3Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
These are outstanding. Love the added grain and vintage look to the shoot. Great locations BTW
Joel
Joel
Sep 30, 2025 at 06:30 AM
p.1 #4Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
charley5 wrote:
These images are absolutely amazing. True mastership of model photography. I like the B&W ones in particular.
-Charles
Thank you so much Charles!
These images are absolutely amazing. True mastership of model photography. I like the B&W ones in particular.
-Charles
Thank you so much Charles!
Sep 30, 2025 at 10:12 PM
p.1 #5Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Again stellar compositions Daniel!
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
Oct 01, 2025 at 10:02 AM
p.1 #6Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
J. Pow wrote:
These are outstanding. Love the added grain and vintage look to the shoot. Great locations BTW
Joel
Thank you Joel. I'm glad you pointed out the grain - it was an intentional added element that I particularly like in this shots. I'm finding that it's something I appreciate and am adding more frequently to my photos lately. I really like the effect.
These are outstanding. Love the added grain and vintage look to the shoot. Great locations BTW
Joel
Thank you Joel. I'm glad you pointed out the grain - it was an intentional added element that I particularly like in this shots. I'm finding that it's something I appreciate and am adding more frequently to my photos lately. I really like the effect.
Oct 02, 2025 at 03:00 AM
p.1 #7Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Danpbphoto wrote:
Again stellar compositions Daniel!
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
Thanks Dan!
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.
Again stellar compositions Daniel!
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
Thanks Dan!
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.
Oct 02, 2025 at 03:03 AM
p.1 #8Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
DanielScott wrote:
JoelThank you Joel. I'm glad you pointed out the grain - it was an intentional added element that I particularly like in this shots. I'm finding that it's something I appreciate and am adding more frequently to my photos lately. I really like the effect.
Yes, The grain add for the intensity of the subject himself is brilliant. You have posted some amazing sets here, however this might be my favorite. These are over the top good. Well done bro!
Joel
J. Pow wrote
These are outstanding. Love the added grain and vintage look to the shoot. Great locations BTWJoel
Yes, The grain add for the intensity of the subject himself is brilliant. You have posted some amazing sets here, however this might be my favorite. These are over the top good. Well done bro!
Joel
Oct 02, 2025 at 05:33 AM
p.1 #9Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
DanielScott wrote:
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
DanThanks Dan!
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.
Thanks brother. Was just inquiring..."Love it when a plan comes together..." Col Hannibal Smith-"The A-Team"!
Dan
Danpbphoto wrote
Again stellar compositions Daniel!Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.
Thanks brother. Was just inquiring..."Love it when a plan comes together..." Col Hannibal Smith-"The A-Team"!
Dan
Oct 02, 2025 at 09:28 AM
p.1 #10Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
J. Pow wrote:
JoelThank you Joel. I'm glad you pointed out the grain - it was an intentional added element that I particularly like in this shots. I'm finding that it's something I appreciate and am adding more frequently to my photos lately. I really like the effect.Yes, The grain add for the intensity of the subject himself is brilliant. You have posted some amazing sets here, however this might be my favorite. These are over the top good. Well done bro!
Joel
Thank you so much Joel!
DanielScott wrote
J. Pow wrote
These are outstanding. Love the added grain and vintage look to the shoot. Great locations BTWJoel
Joel
Thank you so much Joel!
Oct 03, 2025 at 02:27 PM
p.1 #11Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Danpbphoto wrote:
Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
DanThanks Dan!
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.Thanks brother. Was just inquiring..."Love it when a plan comes together..." Col Hannibal Smith-"The A-Team"!
Dan
Thanks Dan.
Definitely a fitting quote for this session.
DanielScott wrote
Danpbphoto wrote
Again stellar compositions Daniel!Your pick of shooting locations is fabulous!!!!
Did you scout out the structure prior to the shoot? Might seem like a dumb question but some photographer's just go.
Dan
I actually didn't get a chance to scout this location before using it. The model and I had discussions online leading up to the shoot in which we came to an agreement on our vision, and then he got in contact with a friend who gave us access to that abandoned location. I took a few photos of him as well, but they're worth sharing in their own thread another time. The location ended up being perfect.
Dan
Thanks Dan.
Definitely a fitting quote for this session.
Oct 03, 2025 at 10:27 PM
p.1 #12Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Wonderful work!!! Love the location too.
Oct 04, 2025 at 05:51 AM
p.1 #13Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
newyork wrote:
Wonderful work!!! Love the location too.
Thank you! As someone who really loves doing photo shoots in abandoned and decayed settings, it was a dream location. There's something about finding or creating beauty in decay that really inspires me.
Wonderful work!!! Love the location too.
Thank you! As someone who really loves doing photo shoots in abandoned and decayed settings, it was a dream location. There's something about finding or creating beauty in decay that really inspires me.
Oct 05, 2025 at 01:22 AM
p.1 #14Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
It really worked well. Looks fantastic.
DanielScott wrote:
Thank you! As someone who really loves doing photo shoots in abandoned and decayed settings, it was a dream location. There's something about finding or creating beauty in decay that really inspires me.
DanielScott wrote:
newyork wrote
Wonderful work!!! Love the location too.Oct 05, 2025 at 07:50 AM
p.1 #15Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
newyork wrote:
It really worked well. Looks fantastic.
Thank you! As someone who really loves doing photo shoots in abandoned and decayed settings, it was a dream location. There's something about finding or creating beauty in decay that really inspires me.
Thank you so much.
It really worked well. Looks fantastic.
DanielScott wrote
newyork wrote
Wonderful work!!! Love the location too.Thank you so much.
Oct 06, 2025 at 04:15 AM
p.1 #16Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
DanielScott wrote:
I recently visited the Chicago area, and while I was there I set up a photo session with a guy that I follow on instagram that I've wanted to photograph for a while now. He goes by Bareknuckle Sweets, and aspires to be a professional wrestler. He's a super nice guy and definitely someone I consider a new friend now. After the shoot we went to a dive bar where he bought me my first (and last) "Chicago Handshake", which was absolutely disgusting. He was at least kind enough to have one with me as well though.
Canon 5D MKIII,...Show more →
These are all great portraits Daniel. I especially like the stairway photo of him lighting the cigarette, and the one where's he's sitting precariously on the railing on the roof. And the fourth photo where he's looking directly at the viewer with a no nonsense look. Most of the photos look very serious/intense, so I assume that's what he was going for. Does he have a sweeter side too?
The dilapidated building is a wonderful setting for these photos. Great work!
Steve
I recently visited the Chicago area, and while I was there I set up a photo session with a guy that I follow on instagram that I've wanted to photograph for a while now. He goes by Bareknuckle Sweets, and aspires to be a professional wrestler. He's a super nice guy and definitely someone I consider a new friend now. After the shoot we went to a dive bar where he bought me my first (and last) "Chicago Handshake", which was absolutely disgusting. He was at least kind enough to have one with me as well though.
Canon 5D MKIII,...Show more →
These are all great portraits Daniel. I especially like the stairway photo of him lighting the cigarette, and the one where's he's sitting precariously on the railing on the roof. And the fourth photo where he's looking directly at the viewer with a no nonsense look. Most of the photos look very serious/intense, so I assume that's what he was going for. Does he have a sweeter side too?
The dilapidated building is a wonderful setting for these photos. Great work!Steve
Oct 11, 2025 at 08:47 AM
p.1 #17Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
eeneryma wrote:
Canon 5D MKIII, Canon EF 35mm f/2, Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II, lit using natural light and a reflector.
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911340_db23fb6257_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54820728747_b284bee33b_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821574836_5a9a28f75f_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821819664_ac40aa8670_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821819669_a8a6d0e631_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911350_6bf119834d_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54820728682_20b178a045_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911450_a62a89e855_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821574816_4589af2f43_o.jpg
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https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821979810_260287521e_o.jpg
And a bonus one taken at the bar after the session, post Chicago Handshake.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911355_12e8c5f349_o.jpgThese are all great portraits Daniel. I especially like the stairway photo of him lighting the cigarette, and the one where's he's sitting precariously on the railing on the roof. And the fourth photo where he's looking directly at the viewer with a no nonsense look. Most of the photos look very serious/intense, so I assume that's what he was going for. Does he have a sweeter side too? The dilapidated building is a wonderful setting for these photos. Great work!
Steve
Thank you Steve!
Yes, the toughness was something he very much wanted to portray, though in spending the day with him and becoming friends, I find him to be very sweet. Doesn't seem to have a mean bone in his body.
DanielScott wrote
I recently visited the Chicago area, and while I was there I set up a photo session with a guy that I follow on instagram that I've wanted to photograph for a while now. He goes by Bareknuckle Sweets, and aspires to be a professional wrestler. He's a super nice guy and definitely someone I consider a new friend now. After the shoot we went to a dive bar where he bought me my first (and last) "Chicago Handshake", which was absolutely disgusting. He was at least kind enough to have one with me as well though.Canon 5D MKIII, Canon EF 35mm f/2, Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II, lit using natural light and a reflector.
1
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911340_db23fb6257_o.jpg
2
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54820728747_b284bee33b_o.jpg
3
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821574836_5a9a28f75f_o.jpg
4
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821819664_ac40aa8670_o.jpg
5
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821819669_a8a6d0e631_o.jpg
6
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911350_6bf119834d_o.jpg
7
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54820728682_20b178a045_o.jpg
8
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911450_a62a89e855_o.jpg
9
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821574816_4589af2f43_o.jpg
10
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821979810_260287521e_o.jpg
And a bonus one taken at the bar after the session, post Chicago Handshake.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54821911355_12e8c5f349_o.jpg
The dilapidated building is a wonderful setting for these photos. Great work!Steve
Thank you Steve!
Yes, the toughness was something he very much wanted to portray, though in spending the day with him and becoming friends, I find him to be very sweet. Doesn't seem to have a mean bone in his body.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:19 AM
p.1 #18Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Congrats on another "FT" Win brother!
Well done!
Dan
Well done!
Dan
Oct 14, 2025 at 08:46 AM
p.1 #19Bareknuckle Sweets - Uptown Chicago
Danpbphoto wrote:
Congrats on another "FT" Win brother!
Well done!
Dan
Thanks Dan! Honestly I never thought I'd get up to 50.
Congrats on another "FT" Win brother!
Well done!
Dan
Thanks Dan! Honestly I never thought I'd get up to 50.
Oct 19, 2025 at 06:54 PM