Hi, I’m Charles McL.Taggart II, a visual artist and photographer based in Ithaca, New York. I specialize in cannabis product photography and photojournalism, bringing artful imagery to brands, publications, and industry coverage. I also work as a graphic designer and illustrator, stitching visuals together to tell compelling stories. Over the years I’ve built a mobile studio that travels with me on the road, allowing me to shoot on-site and deliver polished imagery even far from home. I’ve covered dispensary openings, interviewed influential figures in the Northeast cannabis scene, and produced monthly product reviews, blending documentary storytelling with clean product photography to help clients tell their story.

Charles Taggart

Hi, I’m Charles McL.Taggart II, a visual artist and photographer based in Ithaca, New York. I specialize in cannabis product photography and photojournalism, bringing artful imagery to brands, publications, and industry coverage. I also work as a graphic designer and illustrator, stitching visuals together to tell compelling stories. Over the years I’ve built a mobile studio that travels with me on the road, allowing me to shoot on-site and deliver polished imagery even far from home. I’ve covered dispensary openings, interviewed influential figures in the Northeast cannabis scene, and produced monthly product reviews, blending documentary storytelling with clean product photography to help clients tell their story.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Charles McL.Taggart II, a visual artist and photographer based in Ithaca, New York. I specialize in cannabis product photography and photojournalism, bringing artful imagery to brands, publications, and industry coverage. I also work as a graphic designer and illustrator, stitching visuals together to tell compelling stories.

Over the years I’ve built a mobile studio that travels with me on the road, allowing me to shoot on-site and deliver polished imagery even far from home. I’ve covered dispensary openings, interviewed influential figures in the Northeast cannabis scene, and produced monthly product reviews, blending documentary storytelling with clean product photography to help clients tell their story.

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Experience Level

Expert
Intermediate

Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Lead Contributing Photojournalist and Cover Photographer at Northeast Leaf Magazine
October 1, 2023 - October 1, 2023
Lead photojournalist and cover photographer for a cannabis-focused publication distributed in 8 states; produced 46 published cannabis articles and 3 cover photos; conducted interviews with glass-blowing artists and influential figures in Maine's craft cannabis industry; covered dispensary openings and monthly product reviews; developed mobile studio capabilities for onsite photography.
Owner at ArtWork of Candor Studio
January 1, 1994 - October 31, 2025
Owner providing product photography, graphic design and illustration services.
Owner at iMobilePhoto
January 1, 2011 - October 31, 2025
Owner of a mobile product photography and photojournalism service; began as a photo enlargement service and expanded into mobile photography.
Freelance Carpenter at Self-Employed (Central NY and northern PA)
August 1, 2003 - October 31, 2025
Renovation of antique houses and barns; project management and hands-on carpentry work.
Owner at CandorHosting
January 1, 2004 - January 1, 2004
Owner of CandorHosting, the first small business website hosting service in Tioga County, NY, using secure WebStar5 hosting software.
Webmaster, Director, Vice President at Candor Chamber of Commerce
January 1, 2004 - January 1, 2004
Webmaster and leadership roles; won website design awards and contributed to tripling chamber memberships through targeted online initiatives.
Idea Person and Vice President at Candor Business Development Committee
January 1, 2004 - January 1, 2004
Led efforts to create a nonprofit for small business development and pursued a county business incubator with support from congressman Hinchey.
Art Director at College Games Company
January 1, 1993 - January 1, 1993
Art Director overseeing 50 college interns; designed 25 custom college games, including pre-branding for Otto the Orangeman, Syracuse University’s mascot.

Education

Bachelor of Visual Arts in Illustration at Syracuse University
January 1, 1989 - January 1, 1994
Bachelor of Education K-12 Art at Syracuse University
January 1, 1989 - January 1, 1994

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Professional Services, Retail, Other