What if your high school coach did more than teach you how to run faster or play harder—but helped shape your character, guided your faith, and even made you pancakes?
In Episode 5 of The Open Booth, we sit down with Robert N. Hoskins, Jr., a man whose legacy reaches far beyond the track or classroom. From 1977 to 1993, Coach Hoskins wore many hats at Tucker High School—coach, teacher, mentor, and friend. But as you’ll see in this moving conversation, his most powerful title might just be servant-leader.
🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube
🏫 Coaching That Transformed Lives, Not Just Scores
Hoskins coached five sports (yes, five!) while teaching subjects from health to driver’s ed. But what made his impact lasting was how he used sports as a vessel for life lessons. More than 2,000 students passed through his classes and teams—each one leaving with more than just athletic improvement. They left with purpose, encouragement, and a deeper sense of identity.
🌍 Honoring Every Individual Created in the Image of God
At a time when Tucker High School hosted students from 37 different countries, Coach Hoskins made it his mission to honor every individual as someone created in the image of God. He built relationships that crossed cultural and language barriers—not out of obligation, but out of genuine love and respect. His teams and classrooms were living examples of what it means to truly see people.
🛐 Faith in Action, Not Just Words
Hoskins' journey with Young Life marked a spiritual deepening that shaped how he mentored others. For 20 years, he led Bible studies, shared meals, and offered guidance to students seeking more than just academic success. His life became a living testimony—faith expressed through friendship and action.
🍳 Pancakes, Patience, and Purpose
From feeding his cross-country team chocolate chip pancakes to welcoming foster students into his home, Coach Hoskins’ hospitality was legendary. He gave without fanfare. He served without seeking attention. His story reminds us that small acts of kindness often leave the deepest impact.
⛪ A New Chapter: From Classroom to Pulpit
Eventually, he traded chalkboards for the pulpit, pastoring churches for 26 years and even mastering Biblical Greek to better understand scripture. Whether he was teaching, coaching, or preaching, his mission stayed the same: to serve humbly and love deeply.
🏃 Stories That Stick
From hilarious on-field mishaps to emotional moments of inclusion—like helping a JV player with Down syndrome score a basket—Hoskins' stories are filled with grace, humor, and humanity. His cross-country team of 54 boys from all over the world? That’s not just a sports stat—that’s a snapshot of unity.
🍽️ Still Serving Today
Even in retirement, Coach Hoskins is still making an impact. Now in North Carolina, he’s active in a local church and helps lead a food ministry that feeds 50 people weekly. His life remains rooted in one philosophy: serve with humility and joy.
💬 Your Turn: Be Part of the Story
Know someone whose story should be heard? Someone who’s made a quiet, powerful impact in their community? We want to feature them on The Open Booth.
📩 Nominate a guest by reaching out directly—or drop a comment on the episode!
🎥 Watch, like, and subscribe to The Open Booth to support more conversations like this:
👉 https://youtu.be/AD57PoW7Vvw
#TheOpenBooth #CreatedPhotography #CoachHoskins #ServantLeadership #MoreThanACoach
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What if you were created for more than just going through the motions?
At Created Photography, I believe every person was made in the image of God—uniquely designed with purpose, creativity, and a calling. That belief fuels my photography, my video work, and now… The Open Booth Podcast.
The Open Booth isn’t just another podcast. It’s a place where stories breathe, where real people share real struggles, real faith, and real victories. It’s a platform for the voices that usually don’t get mic time—but have the power to inspire transformation.
Why Subscribe?
Because you want more than noise. You want:
- Authentic stories from people who have overcome.
- Reflections that challenge and inspire you to live with purpose.
- Practical takeaways that help you show up differently—at work, at home, and in your own heart.
If you’re feeling stuck… like you’re existing but not living—this podcast was made with you in mind.
Every episode is a chance to pause, reflect, and re-engage with your own God-given identity.
New episodes drop regularly, featuring:
- Coaches, entrepreneurs, and everyday people with powerful testimonies
- Mentor moments rooted in faith and purpose
- A call to rise above the routine and embrace the life you were created to live
Ready to listen in?
Subscribe now on YouTube:
The Open Booth Podcast on YouTube
And while you’re there, leave a comment, share an episode with a friend, or message me with a story worth telling.
Because life isn’t a dress rehearsal.
Step into the booth. Speak life. Live on purpose.
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In recent months, TikTok has dominated headlines—not just for viral dances or trending sounds, but for serious concerns about data privacy and international influence. At the center of it all? TikTok’s connection to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
As the founder of Created Photography, I care deeply about how individuals and businesses show up online. Whether you’re using TikTok, LinkedIn, or Instagram, your online presence matters—and so does your awareness of the platforms you use to build it.
So let’s break it down:
What’s the Concern with TikTok?
TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is based in China. While TikTok has stated repeatedly that it stores U.S. data outside of China and maintains operational independence, concerns persist—especially about:
• User data being accessed by the Chinese government
• The platform’s potential to influence public opinion or suppress content
• How business and personal data may be used in ways that users don’t fully understand
Why It Matters for Professionals
If you’re a business owner, content creator, or professional using TikTok, your digital presence is part of your brand. But using a platform without fully understanding its policies or risks could damage your credibility—or worse, your security.
That doesn’t mean everyone should abandon TikTok. But it does mean you should:
• Know where your content lives and who can access it.
• Understand how data is stored and shared.
• Evaluate whether the platform aligns with your brand’s values and goals.
What You Can Do
1. Stay Informed: Follow reliable news outlets that cover digital security and global tech trends.
2. Use a Mix of Platforms: Don’t rely on just one social media app to build your brand.
3. Take Ownership of Your Image: Make sure your brand visuals—your headshot, your videos, your posts—exist outside of a single app.
Why This Matters to Me as a Photographer
You don’t have to be a political analyst to care about where your brand lives online. As a visual storyteller, I help people and businesses create professional, authentic imagery that lives across all platforms. Whether you’re on TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn—or pivoting away from certain apps—your content should be professional, evergreen, and yours to control.
Let’s Talk About Your Online Image
Need help building a strong, secure, and stunning visual identity across platforms? I’d love to help.
Book a call with me:
https://calendly.com/createdphotography/30-minute-introductory-call-or-zoom
Learn more about my services:
https://www.createdphotography.com
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How AI Helps Me Write Songs and Fuel Creativity in My Photography Business
In recent months, I’ve embarked on a new creative venture—writing songs with the help of AI. While my core passion remains photography, the power of AI in various creative fields has been a journey I couldn’t ignore. From quirky songs about National Days to deeply personal projects, AI has allowed me to push my creative limits.
AI: A Creative Companion
AI is no longer just a technical tool—it’s becoming an assistant for creative minds like me. While most of the songs I’ve been creating are lighthearted and humorous, every once in a while, a project comes along that has deep emotional significance.
Recently, I had the privilege of writing a song called “All of the Above”, which was inspired by a very personal story. A friend of mine, who is currently battling cancer, took to social media to write a heartfelt post about the unwavering support of his wife. His words about her being “All of the Above” became the core of the song I wrote, as a tribute not only to her but to all the wives, partners, and caregivers who stand by their loved ones through life’s most challenging times.
“All of the Above” - A Tribute to Supportive Wives
This song holds a special place in my heart, not only because of the touching story behind it but also because of how it connects with the theme of support and love. Crafting the lyrics using AI helped me quickly turn my friend's powerful words into a beautiful tribute.
Check out more of my recent AI-assisted songs, each inspired by a different national day:
- Tech Support Surprise: Written for National Techie Day, this humorous song highlights the everyday struggles of tech support... but with a fun twist where the “techie” turns out to be a grandchild offering advice!
- Walk to School Prep: Inspired by National Walk to School Day, this playful song pokes fun at all the preparation parents go through the day before—only to reveal that the kids are homeschooled!
- What’s That Gesture Mean?: Created for National Body Language Day, this lighthearted song explores the quirky and sometimes confusing world of non-verbal communication, where gestures can mean a thousand different things.
Stay Connected!
If you're following along with my creative journey, be sure to connect with me on social media for more content:
How AI Helps My Creativity
AI’s ability to assist in the song-making process has been invaluable. With AI tools, I’m able to focus more on storytelling and creative flow while letting the technology handle the structure and initial ideas. This collaboration between human creativity and AI is where the magic happens.
Even though my photography work isn’t directly featured in these songs, this creative process influences every part of my business. Storytelling, after all, is at the core of everything I do—whether it’s crafting an image through the lens or composing a song for a friend. The ability to create something deeply emotional, like “All of the Above”, keeps my creative mind sharp and open to new possibilities in my photography work as well.
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In life, many of us face challenges that seem insurmountable. The struggles may come from broken homes, difficult childhoods, or feeling like we don’t belong. This theme rings true in the latest episode of *The Open Booth* titled **"Hope for Homecoming."**
This episode follows the powerful story of a young woman I met through church—a woman who grew up in unimaginable circumstances. Raised by a single mother battling drug addiction and alcoholism, she navigated a childhood devoid of stability, safety, or the warmth of home. Yet, through resilience, faith, and a desire to create a better life, she overcame the odds.
When I first heard her speak at a church event called "Nerd Night," where she talked about her time as both a beauty pageant contestant and a CSI, I was captivated. Over time, we became friends, and I had the privilege of capturing her wedding through my photography. It was then that I learned the depth of her story and the incredible work she does through her charity, **Teens Without 2.** Her journey wasn’t just about surviving; it was about finding purpose and giving back.
We sat down in front of **Thomas Jefferson High School**, a symbolic backdrop for our interview, to explore what “home” meant to her. Her first response was a pause-filled, emotional reflection: "I didn’t have a home." That moment hit hard, not just for her but for anyone who has ever felt lost or without a sense of belonging.
As we delved deeper, she spoke of her determination to build a home, not just for herself, but for her children—a home filled with the love, safety, and opportunities she never had. And in that vulnerability, she shared how her faith in God was the anchor that brought her through her darkest days, allowing her to create a place of hope and healing.
**The Open Booth** was created to tell real stories like hers—stories that remind us that even when someone looks like they have it all together, there may be deep struggles we can’t see. More importantly, it’s a reminder that God has created each one of us with purpose, and through faith, we can find light in the midst of life’s toughest challenges.
I invite you to watch this touching episode and see how faith and courage can transform lives.
**[Watch the full episode of "Hope for Homecoming" here](https://youtu.be/2h8QnW3ZylE?si=cxi-cyR0lF07rMYK).**
If her story resonates with you, please consider supporting the charity she founded, **Teens Without 2,** which provides scholarships and support to teens growing up without two parents. Your donation could change a life.
**[Learn more and donate to Teens Without 2](https://www.teenswithout2.org/).**
Let’s continue sharing stories of hope, healing, and resilience.
**Like, comment, and share** this blog post with those who might find strength in these words. You never know who might need this message today.
**Connect with me:**
- **Facebook:** [Created Photography](https://www.facebook.com/createdphotography)
- **Instagram:** [@createdphotography.us](https://www.instagram.com/createdphotography.us)
- **LinkedIn:** [Matthew R. O. Brown](https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewrobrown/)
- **Pinterest:** [Matthew R. O. Brown](https://www.pinterest.com/MatthewROBrown)
- **YouTube:** [Created Photography](https://www.youtube.com/@createdphotography)
The Inspiration: A Space for Open Conversations
The idea for The Open Booth came from the simple yet profound experience we all share: the joy of finding an open booth in a restaurant. It’s that perfect spot where laughter, deep conversations, and meaningful connections happen. I wanted to recreate that feeling—only this time, with a twist. Instead of sharing a meal, we’re sharing stories, delving into the lives of remarkable individuals in settings that resonate with their journeys.
But there’s more to the story. During a time when I was considering starting a podcast, I was working part-time at a local Chick-fil-A. As luck would have it, they were closing for renovations. I seized the moment and asked if I could take one of the booths home. They agreed, and that’s how The Open Booth was born. While Chick-fil-A doesn’t have any involvement in the content, their booth now travels with me, serving as the centerpiece for conversations that matter.
Locations That Speak Volumes
Each episode of The Open Booth isn’t just about who’s sitting in the booth—it’s also about where that booth is set up. As a photographer and storyteller, I know that context is everything. The locations I choose are carefully selected to align with the story being told. Whether it’s a peaceful park, a historic site, or a place with personal significance to my guest, every setting adds depth and meaning to the conversation.
Take Episode 1 - The Way Home, for example. In this episode, I had the privilege of interviewing a friend who shared his harrowing experience in Afghanistan. His story of survival during a suicide bombing attack is one of the most powerful narratives I’ve ever had the honor of capturing. The setting, the booth, and the story all came together to create a moment that’s both raw and inspiring.
In Episode 2 - From the Grave, I took the booth to Hollywood Cemetery in Richmond, a location that perfectly complemented the conversation. There, with the city skyline as our backdrop, I interviewed a "Death Doula" who shared profound insights into the end-of-life process. The setting was more than just a backdrop; it was an integral part of the story, bringing a unique depth to the conversation.
Behind the Scenes: The Journey of Production
Creating The Open Booth has been a labor of love, but it hasn’t been without its challenges. Producing high-quality, engaging content on a limited budget is no easy task. From transporting the booth in a 12-passenger van (originally bought for my growing family) to scouting and securing unique locations, every episode requires meticulous planning and execution.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that sound quality is crucial—maybe even more so than the visuals. It’s those little details that can make or break the viewer’s experience. And while the production process can be daunting, the feedback from my audience has made it all worthwhile. People are not only watching but engaging, asking about new episodes and even suggesting future guests.
Expanding Horizons: What’s Next for The Open Booth
As I continue to grow The Open Booth, my goal is to bring in a wider variety of guests. From everyday heroes to the occasional celebrity, I want to keep the content grounded in real stories of hope and perseverance. My dream guests? The Governor of Virginia, maybe even Donald Trump—but always with an emphasis on the stories that connect us all.
Visibility is key to this project’s success. I’m working hard to expand the reach of The Open Booth through increased publicity and, hopefully, sponsorships in the future. The more people who tune in, the more lives we can touch with these powerful narratives.
Why The Open Booth Matters
This project has been a window into the lives of those around me, revealing their struggles, hopes, and dreams. My role is not just to listen but to help them find clarity and hope through our conversations. I want The Open Booth to be more than just a podcast—I want it to be a platform that brings people into my ecosystem, where they can discover what I offer through both relationships and business.
Photography has always been my passion, and now, through moving images and compelling stories, I’m exploring new ways to inspire and connect. It’s challenging, yes, but it’s also deeply rewarding.
Call to Action: Join the Conversation!
I’m inviting you to be part of this journey. Watch the latest episodes, Episode 1 - The Way Home and Episode 2 - From the Grave, and subscribe to The Open Booth on YouTube. Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook for behind-the-scenes content, updates on new episodes, and more.
Let’s keep the conversation going—one booth, one story at a time.
As a photographer, I love attending events and capturing the unique moments that unfold in front of my camera. I was on assignment for Virginia Business Magazine shooting a small startup company that focuses on natural snack “Absurd Snacks”.
Absurd snacks was started as a class project by two University of Richmond friends. Their snacks are made with simple and clean ingredients, pack a burst of flavor, and are completely free of the top-9 allergens. Check out Grace and Eli’s creation here: Absurd Snacks
After I finished my assignment I strolled through the rows of vendors and one booth in particular caught my attention. It was filled with beautifully crafted knives, each one unique and handmade. I was immediately drawn to the intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship.
I struck up a conversation with the knife maker behind the booth, and was immediately struck by his passion and dedication to his craft. He eagerly shared his knowledge and experience with me, detailing the intricate process of creating each custom knife.
I was fascinated as he described his selection of materials, and the precision required to shape and hone each blade. I was amazed at the level of skill and artistry involved in the process.
couldn't help but feel a newfound appreciation for the art of knife making. It was clear that this knife maker was truly a master of his craft, and his passion and dedication shone through in every blade.
One particular knife caught my eye, with its unique blade shape and intricate handle design. It was clear that this knife was a true work of art, and I knew I had to capture its beauty in my photos.
As I said goodbye to the knife maker and thanked him for his time and expertise, I walked away with a new appreciation for the art of knife making. It was clear that this was more than just a hobby or a profession for him - it was a true passion and a labor of love.
If you're interested in the art of knife making or simply appreciate exquisite craftsmanship, I highly recommend checking out this talented artisan. His custom, handmade knives are truly works of art, and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to meet him and learn more about his craft. Check out Billy and his knives here: Eleven Knives
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As a professional photographer, I have spent years honing my craft and perfecting my eye for the perfect shot. Whether it's capturing a special moment, a stunning landscape, or showcasing a product for business purposes, my expertise shines through in every photograph. But my skills don't just stop there. I am also highly experienced in editing, post-processing, and creating breathtaking prints.
As your personal consultant, I can work with you to create a vision for your photography needs. Whether it's helping you choose the perfect camera, selecting the best lighting for your shoot, or offering advice on the ideal backgrounds and settings, I am here to make sure that every photograph you take is a masterpiece.
For those interested in learning the art of photography, I also offer customized teaching sessions that cater to individual needs and skill levels. From beginners to advanced photographers, I can help you master the techniques and tricks that I've developed throughout my career. These skills can be used to capture priceless family moments or to elevate your business's marketing materials.
So whether you're a past client who wants to continue working with me, or you know someone who is looking to improve their photography skills, I am here to help transform your vision into stunning photographs. Contact me today to learn more about my consulting and teaching services.
Send me a message, shoot me a text or give me a call. 804-370-1240
]]>First and foremost, a great headshot should showcase your personality, professionalism, and uniqueness. As a photographer, it's my job to create an environment where you can feel at ease and confident, allowing your true self to shine through. I want to capture the real you - not just a stiff, posed version of yourself that looks like everyone else's headshot.
But beyond the creative process, there's a whole science to headshot photography. For one, lighting is key. Not only should the lighting flatter your features, but it should also set the mood for the shot. A bright, airy look may work for one person, while a more dramatic, moody vibe would better suit another.
Another important factor to consider is the composition of the shot. The angle, the background, even the spacing between you and the camera - all of these elements can make or break a headshot. As a seasoned photographer, I know how to frame a shot in a way that draws the viewer's eye to the most important aspects of your image.
Now, I know what you're thinking - can't I just take a selfie and call it a day? Sure, you could. But if you want to compete in today's market, you need to stand out from the crowd. A professional headshot shows that you're serious about your brand and that you're willing to invest in yourself.
So, whether you're a business owner, real estate agent, actor, or anything in between, a great headshot can be a game-changer for your career. And as a headshot photographer in Richmond, Virginia, I'm here to help you achieve that success. Contact me today to book your session and let's make your personality and professionalism shine through a stunning headshot! Call or Text 804-370-1240 today.
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Here are some reasons why you should consider hiring a professional photographer:
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Expertise and Experience: Professional photographers have years of experience and knowledge in capturing stunning photos. They understand lighting, composition, and framing, and know how to make you look your best.
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High-Quality Equipment: Professional photographers use high-end cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment to capture crisp and clear images. They also have backup equipment to ensure that your photos are not lost in case of equipment failure.
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Attention to Detail: A professional photographer pays attention to even the smallest details to ensure that every photo is perfect. From the lighting to the pose, they will take the time to make sure that every aspect of the photo is just right.
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Time-Saving: Hiring a professional photographer can save you time and stress. They will handle everything from setting up the equipment to editing the photos, leaving you free to enjoy the moment.
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Long-Term Value: A professional photographer will provide you with high-quality photos that will last a lifetime. These photos can be passed down from generation to generation and will always hold their value.
Overall, hiring a professional photographer is an investment that you won't regret. They will provide you with stunning, high-quality photos that capture your memories in the best possible way.
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Well, actually, a whole lot is in a name.
My name is Matthew Richard Overton Brown. I was born in to a family of three, I’m the youngest. My first name, Matthew, is from the Bible. Matthew is the first book of the New Testament, which is named after the writer of this book, Matthew, the tax collector. Matthew, from Hebrew, means “gift of God”.
When I opened my photography business, I did what most photographers do, I called my business by my own name: Matthew R. O. Brown Photography. I let my name be my calling card and it was good.
A few years ago I wanted to acknowledge my God to my clients and to the world so “Created Photography” was born. I tag my photos with “Created Photography”. I was moved by these Bible verses: Genesis 1:1 says “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Ephesians 4:10 which says “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
The truth is this, I would not have life, new life and hope without Jesus Christ. Jesus, who saves by grace alone, through faith alone, will save any who repent and turn to him for salvation.
I know that there is no other name by which anyone can be saved than by the name of Jesus.
At Matthew R. O. Brown Photography each and every project that I work on as a Commercial Photographer is a personal project. I put myself into everything that I do. Each image that I create is “Created Photography”.
The Bible says that God created every person in the image of God. In any of my photography that includes people, I try to get images that show that unique characteristic in each individual. I try to make each client see their value. Maybe even see themselves differently, in a new light.
What’s in a name? A lot, a whole lot.
Matthew R. O. Brown
Personal - Commercial Photography
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