Today, as we mourn the passing of the talented American actor, Mark Margolis, I find myself reflecting on the moments I had the privilege of spending with him during our portrait sessions. Mark's career spanned decades, and he starred in numerous films, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. Most notably, his portrayal of Hector Salamanca in "Breaking Bad" and "Better Call Saul" earned him critical acclaim and an Emmy Award nomination in 2012.

Our journey began in 2015 when fate brought us together in the lobby of a Los Angeles hotel. There, I spotted Mark enjoying a quiet cigarette break, and with a sense of admiration for his work, I introduced myself. To my delight, Mark proved to be approachable and eager to chat. We spoke about his extensive filmography, but I was particularly intrigued by his role as Hector Salamanca. Our conversation sparked an idea, and I proposed photographing him for a portrait during my time in LA.

Delighted by the offer, Mark and his wife, Jacqueline Margolis, graciously agreed to sit for portraits. In that spontaneous moment, I captured the warmth and charisma that radiated from Mark, as well as the love shared between him and his wife. The resulting images were a testament to the magic that can happen when artists come together, seizing opportunities presented by fate.

Fast forward to February 14th, 2019, when I had the honor of photographing Mark for the second and final time during a visit to New York. This session was part of my Selah portrait project, where I sought to portray a man of faith immersed in contemplation and reflection. Mark's talent shone through as he embraced the character I directed him to portray, allowing me to freeze moments of profound introspection through my lens.

As a photographer inspired by Renaissance Italian painters, I meticulously crafted the lighting, atmosphere, and tones, aiming to recreate the timeless beauty of classical portrait paintings. These elements added depth to the images, capturing the soul and spirit of Mark, just as the Old Masters did with their brushstrokes.

Today, we bid farewell to Mark Margolis, celebrating the legacy he leaves behind. Through my portraits, I hope to honor his memory and the profound impact he had on the entertainment industry and the lives of those he touched. His performances as Hector Salamanca and his numerous other roles will forever resonate in the hearts of fans and fellow artists.

Mark's passing reminds us of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we share with others. In capturing his essence through photography, I have been reminded of the power of art to transcend time and preserve the beauty of the human spirit.

Rest in peace, Mark Margolis. Your talent, kindness, and professionalism will be deeply missed, but your artistry will live on forever. May your family, friends, and fans find solace in the joy and inspiration you brought to the world.