Capturing the Essence of David “Dave” Boeck for Cleveland County Lifestyle Magazine

Jul 23

"A captivating photoshoot reveals his unique world!”

Wide shot of David Boeck’s eco-friendly home in Oklahoma City, showcasing the sustainable design and natural surroundings

Meet Dave Boeck: His Unique Story Behind the Lens

Some people just have that magnetic energy, you know? David “Dave” Boeck is one of those people. From the moment we met, I knew photographing him would be an absolute joy. He’s not just a retiring professor of Architecture from the University of Oklahoma in Norman, OK; he’s also a master of creativity and sustainability.

Dave designed and built his own jaw-dropping eco-friendly home, which perfectly reflects his passion for innovative design. Oh, and did I mention he’s a phenomenal colored pencil artist? He’s currently working on stunning drawings of some of OU’s most iconic buildings. (Meanwhile, I’m over here struggling with stick figures.)

When Cleveland County Lifestyle Magazine reached out to feature both Dave and his architectural masterpiece, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough.

As a passionate lifestyle photographer in Oklahoma City, I thrive on capturing the essence of extraordinary individuals, and Dave’s story is one I’ll never forget.

Dave’s Vision for His Perfect Photo Session

Dave had a clear vision for his photo session. He wanted to highlight his laid-back lifestyle, creative passions, and deep commitment to sustainability. His home and its surrounding environment set the perfect foundation to showcase all of these elements effortlessly.

And how can we forget the hair! When I asked Dave what feature he loved most about himself, he shamelessly gave his shoulder-length white hair a playful shake and replied, “My hair!” He wasn’t kidding, either. His glorious mane definitely stole the spotlight.

For me, as a professional lifestyle photographer in Oklahoma City, this was a chance to do what I love most: telling a vibrant, authentic story through my lens.

Behind the Scenes: Capturing Dave’s Lifestyle Session

Every assignment I take on is a mini adventure, especially when Cleveland County Lifestyle Magazine sends me on location. There’s no time for pre-shoot planning or lighting setups; I arrive ready to work with what I’ve got. Thankfully, Oklahoma blessed me with one of those perfectly overcast mornings where the light basically does all the magic for you.

Dave’s house sits at the center of an untamed but beautiful front yard overflowing with native grasses, wildflowers, and personality. His environmental consciousness was evident everywhere—from his sustainable landscaping to his hybrid Honda Fit parked in the driveway.

The scene couldn’t have been more perfect for capturing Dave’s vibe as well as the natural beauty surrounding him. This was Oklahoma City lifestyle photography gold!

Portrait of David “Dave” Boeck with his iconic hair and laid-back vibe, taken by Mel Drake, a lifestyle photographer in Oklahoma City.

Scene 1: A Masterpiece in Its Element

We started the shoot in front of Dave’s self-designed home. Its thoughtful, unique lines provided the best backdrops for wide-angle shots, while closer portraits captured his pride and humility. His home held so much personality, and framing it alongside Dave felt like capturing two sides of the same story.

Blooming garden at David Boeck’s Oklahoma City home, showcasing sustainable gardening techniques and vibrant greenery

Scene 2: Wildflower Wonder

Next, we wandered into his lush front yard. Think fields of wildflowers swaying in the breeze, balanced with native greenery thriving unattended. It was vibrant and natural, a perfectly unfiltered reflection of who Dave is. Honestly, he blended into his surroundings so well it felt like they were an extension of his personality.

David Boeck standing proudly beside his eco-friendly Honda Fit in Oklahoma City, emphasizing his unique approach to sustainable living.

Scene 3: Wheels With a Purpose

Dave’s eco-friendly Honda Fit isn’t just a car; it’s a statement about how he lives intentionally and sustainably. I crouched low to capture compelling wide-angle shots of him leaning casually on his car as it stood nestled into the greenery. These dynamic images effortlessly linked his love for design and sustainability.

David Boeck relaxing on the porch of his eco-friendly home in Oklahoma City, captured in a candid moment of his laid-back lifestyle

Scene 4: Porch Coffee and Peaceful Vibes

One of my favorite moments was photographing Dave relaxing on his porch with a warm cup of coffee. The morning light fell perfectly soft against the backdrop of his wooden Adirondack chair. It wasn’t staged; it was pure authenticity. These intimate photos felt so personal, capturing what I imagine are Dave’s most peaceful, reflective moments.

A glimpse into David Boeck’s creative workspace in Oklahoma City, featuring architectural sketches and tools that highlight his artistic side

Scene 5: Creative Chaos

For our grand finale, we moved indoors into Dave’s creative workspace. Picture a kitchen table overflowing with pencils, markers, rulers, and sketches of intricate architectural designs. The warm natural light pouring through the windows added a golden softness to the moments captured here—this was Dave in his natural habitat.

A Personal Note from Mel Drake | Why I Loved This Shoot

This is the kind of session that makes me fall even more in love with my work. Dave’s energy made it so easy to tell his story through my camera. And that hair flip?! Iconic.

It’s clients like Dave who remind me why being a lifestyle photographer isn’t just about creating pretty pictures. It’s about freezing moments of real connection and storytelling for others to share and treasure forever.

The Gear That Helped Me Bring Dave’s Vision to Life

Now, for my fellow photographers and tech-curious friends, here’s the lineup of gear that helped me bring Dave’s shoot to life:

Camera Body: Canon RP Mirrorless
Lens: Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 Lens
Lighting: Natural lighting outdoors; minimal flash indoors for subtle highlights
Settings: ISO 160, f/4 aperture, shutter speed 1/320
Shooting in Manual mode allowed me to adjust quickly for the outdoor light and bring a warm glow into the indoor scenes. Flexibility is always the secret weapon in Oklahoma City lifestyle photography!

The Final Frames | Dave’s Brilliant Photo Gallery

The results? An incredible series of photos organically blends Dave’s personality, passion, and lifestyle. Wide-angle shots showcased his thoughtful designs, while close-ups captured the intricate details of his artistry. Every image felt full of life and authenticity, piecing together a story that’s uniquely his.

These are the photos I live to take. They’re more than just pictures; they’re memories bottled up to be shared for years to come.

Over-the-shoulder view of Dave drawing an architectural design of an OU campus building at his kitchen table in Norman, OK.

David Boeck’s eco-friendly home in Norman, Ok showcasing the sustainable design and natural surroundings

Dave sitting on a tree stump surrounded by wildflowers and eco-friendly landscaping, smiling in his front yard in Norman, OK

3/4 close-up of Dave smiling with hands in pockets, standing by a tree in his yard with his house in the background in Norman, OK

David Boeck seated in his creative workspace, flipping through a sketchbook filled with architectural ideas in his Oklahoma City home

Want Photos Like These? Here’s How You Can Work With Me

Working with Dave was one of those experiences that reminded me why I love being a Black female lifestyle photographer in Oklahoma City. His warmth and authenticity made it one of the most rewarding sessions I’ve done.

Dreaming of a photoshoot that’s as vibrant and authentic as you are? Visit Mel Drake Photography to learn how we can bring your story to life. Whether it’s a lifestyle portrait, a family story, or creative branding for your business—we’ll make magic together.

Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram @MelDrakePhotography and Facebook @MelDrakePhotography for more behind-the-scenes fun, tips, and sneak peeks of upcoming shoots.

XOXO, Melissa "Mel" Drake

#LetsMakeMagicTogether #MelDrakePhotography

QUICK REFERENCES:

Photography:
- Melissa “Mel” Drake (Mel Drake Photography)
Clients:
- David “Dave” Boeck
Locations:
- Norman, OK
Equipment:
- Canon RP Mirrorless Camera | Canon RF 24-105mm f/4 Lens )

TIME TO MAKE MAGIC: BOOK YOUR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY SESSION TODAY

Interested in capturing your own unique story through stunning photos? Together we'll tell your story and bring your vision to life. Let's make some magic together! Contact Mel Drake Photography today.

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