Who is Charles? Well, first and foremost I know this much... I am a family man. When you are in a family business, it's kind of hard not to be. I do my best to look out for my wife, mom, sister, and her boys. I love them all, and am thankful that they are part of my life and my business. They also look out for me, and I know I'm a lucky man. Oh yes, and I can't forget to mention our dog. She's huge, but a gentle giant and she is beautiful.

     I've lived in a lot of different places in my lifetime including Texas, Colorado, South Carolina, North Carolina, Kentucky, Virginia, New Jersey, Connecticut, and New York. My life experiences range from small town southern living on a farm, to Mountain towns in the west, to the largest of cities, so I tend to see the best in everyone and fit in anywhere I go. I am also sincerely interested in the stories of people of all walks of life, and comfortable in a tuxedo and fine suit, on the beach kicking it with friends, or in cowboy boots in the country. I just love it all, and have fun with all aspects of life.

     I am serious about my work and my mission, but equally serious about having fun and being playful. So, I guess I have a work hard, play hard attitude. I am told I like extremes. It's probably because these are the things that somehow come natural to me. I grew up skateboarding, surfing, racing road bikes and mountain bikes, motocross, snowboarding, and sailing. I love extreme sports, and extreme places. I guess that is why I am drawn to NYC as an artist, and yet have the complete opposite lifestyle at our home in CT, which is in a very country setting.

     I LOVE to travel because it influences both my art and my life. Sailing adventures and vacations are my favorite because it allows us to be among family and friends. I love being captain of the boat and to me, there is just no better feeling than being out on the open ocean and visiting remote destinations by boat. The wind fills the sails and my soul, and it is also an incredible way to photograph the world.

     I am a Renaissance Man no doubt because I love everything artistic. I am a professional photographer / film maker first, along with being an avid musician. I love all types of music from Rock and Roll to Country, Pop, and Jazz. While a lot of people prefer to label themselves to one genre, I personally prefer to reinvent on an ongoing basis. I capture life and love mostly, have an eye for beauty, and am crazy about romance and fashion. A recent article on us said it best "Maring's work showcases everything that is right with the world". I loved that quote because I love taking ordinary subjects and using our lighting skills and talents to make them extraordinary.

     My first love was photography, and it's been part of my dream since I was 7 years old give or take. My dad and brother had an interest, and built a darkroom in our house. They probably didn't realize the impact that it was having when I was seeing images appear on blank pieces of paper before my eyes. It was like magic, and I was forever hooked. As their interest grew, so did mine. I was reading photography books, or at least looking at the imagery and lighting diagrams for years. It was all sinking in and my father and mom both fostered this dream as it slowly became my reality. My dad was the best man I've ever known. Working alongside him and my family has been the ultimate gift.

     The love of my life is Jennifer. We are the best of friends, and we work together towards a common goal. Together now 16 years, we still have a lot of fun together and say "I Love You" everyday. People always ask "how can you work so closely with your wife and family"? I don't have the answer to that. I just know that somehow it has been a blessing for us all, and I know that it is a blessing for our clients as well.

     So that is a small glimpse into my life, the things I love, and how I think. I hope you'll explore the blog and our website.  You should friend me on Facebook and follow me on Twitter. We're always up to something, and love to share.