Armored: Medieval photo event with Portland's creative community at Cobalt Studios

Michael Ballard (Nilas)
Nov 12, 2025
1 min read

About this photography summit:

Hosted by Nilas Photography

Hosted by Nilas Photography, based out of Cobalt Studios PDX in SE Portland, Oregon.

Collaboration with James Armstrong

Michael and Rose partnered with a special collaborator, fellow photographer and armor supplier, and great friend, James Armstrong (@chromadreaming). His content focuses on dark fantasy and medieval themes, often featuring Pacific Northwest landscapes and a "Forest Dweller" aesthetic. Through his eyes, his audience is transported to another time or, perhaps, another plane of existence. We truly appreciate his collaboration and friendship.

Appreciation for Pro Photo Supply

Another supplier that we deeply appreciate is our friends at Pro Photo Supply (@prophotosupply, @reynhiskey, @emulsioninmotion) for always supplying additional equipment and jumping into the chaos.

Our Incredible Models

Our incredible models include @allisonn._.kelly, @mocha_goddness, and @avopocus. A huge thank you to the talent, all the photographers, and any attendees! We feel grateful to know so many talented creatives from all over Oregon and Washington!

Sets at Cobalt Studios PDX

Our sets were all inside of Cobalt Studios PDX, our professional photo studio in Portland, Oregon, where photographers can join events, crash community events, and rent our space and equipment.

Set Themes

Sets were meant to emulate a swampy or gloomy fantastical swamp or forest, as well as a starry night sky with backlit sky holes. The medieval armor makes it pretty insane. Enjoy my shots from this set and explore more in the shared accounts.