# California Cool Photography Photographer RJ Shaughnessy Captures Moments of Calm Serenity By Jordan Sowunmi | Published 2011-05-27 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/rj-shaughnessy References: [photodonuts](http://photodonuts.com/rj-shaughnessy) & [rjshaughnessy](http://www.rjshaughnessy.com/portfolio/summary/) Los Angeles-based photographer RJ Shaughnessy is an expert at capturing moments of quiet, smooth serenity in the hustle and bustle of the fast-paced California environment. A cursory glance at the RJ Shaughnessy portfolio leaves the viewer with deep impact -- his versatility is evident as he moves effortlessly from celebrity editorials (his stunning collection of pictures of Odd Future) to his relaxing (and at times, sensual) photographs of his friends playing basketball in bikinis or enjoying the [California sun](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/golden-hour-getaway-collection) while lying on the hood of a car. Part of RJ Shaughnessy's skill lies in his ability to [manipulate lighting](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paper-curves) to accurately represent the mood of his photoshoots. His best photos come when he is shooting at twilight or in black and white. His photographs have the ability to make his pictures seem truly carefree and timeless. One look through his gallery is like being transported to the [City of Angels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cm-g1). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.9/10 - Popularity: 100% | Activity: 100% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) > [Photography](https://www.trendhunter.com/stylephotography) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Versatility in Photography:** Photographers can explore new niches and expand their portfolio by showcasing their versatility in capturing a range of subjects and moods. - **Manipulation of Lighting:** Artists can experiment with different lighting techniques to evoke specific moods and enhance the impact of their photographs. - **Transportive Photography:** Photographers can create images that transport viewers to different places, immersing them in a unique visual experience. ### Who This Affects Most - **Photography:** Aspiring photographers can find opportunities to learn and incorporate different techniques to stand out in a competitive industry. - **Art and Design:** Artists can explore innovative ways to manipulate lighting and create captivating visual experiences in various artistic mediums. - **Editorial and Fashion:** Photographers can apply their versatility and expertise in capturing different subjects and moods to excel in editorial and fashion photography. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Cali Modernism-Inspired Outdoor Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/la-cool.md) - [Summer-Inspired Photo Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/summer-dreaming-collection.md) - [Photography Project Series](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/still-life-1.md) - [California-Inspired Apparel Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/california-holiday.md) - [California-Inspired Ranch Hotels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sun-ranch.md) - [Californian Modern Office Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/day-job.md) - [Color Photography Exhibitions](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/profiles-in-color.md) - [State-Honoring Furniture Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/statehonoring-furniture-collections.md) - [Public Art Displays](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/paul-anthony-smith.md)