Photographers can wear many hats. Content creators, writers, marketers, directors. We’re searching for that perfect angle or the best light. When neither exists we create it. Add more production, strobes, makeup or a ladder and our subjects can be transformed. There is an incredible amount of work that goes into each photo, or sentence, scene and portfolio. Then of course, there’s that inner force that seems to hold it’s hand flat against our back, and push. I think that’s called inspiration. In this case, it arrived in moving pictures. No make up and a beautiful sunrise. The setting: a coffee shop with simple, clean design.

Cafe Volan’s owners Paul and Doug have cultivated the perfect blend of beach and brew on Bangs Ave in Asbury Park. They’re a small business with a passion for coffee and penchant for art. Aside from entrepreneurs, Paul is a still photographer shooting exclusively 35 and 120mm film, while Doug channels his energy into woodworking. It only felt right to film and interview this duo in a way that would resonate with Cafe Volan’s following, as well as spark an interest in those who’ve yet to experience the shop. Please have a look at the short piece we created. Much thanks for the perfect music vibe Brian Parnagian!