Nathaniel is one of my best friends. We have known each other for 18 years... yes, that makes me feel old. We met in high school marching band. I was the drum major (the "band leader"/ conductor) and he was the lead snare drummer. It was kind of our jobs to read each other's minds and stay on the same page because as any former band member knows, the band actually follows the lead snare.
Fun fact, Nathaniel and his parents bought me my first non-disposable camera because I was burning through disposables like they were going out of style (pun intended). He grew as a drummer and made a living out of his passion for music and I grew as a photographer and well, here we are. This is my #1 whiskey drinking buddy. We all need that friend who knows that bad moods are temporary and will push your through them... we are pretty lucky that goes both ways. 
Nathaniel had been telling me he needed a good photo for a while, now. I told him that if we were going to do this, we were going to do it my way. What represents him more than anything? His drums. So we found a spot where he could go to town and I got a free show. Not that you need to bring a drum set to have an awesome portrait session; but I think it's important to incorporate the things that are in your heart. Think about that the non-human loves of your life. What are they? If you don't know, what did you love as a child? Your inner child will remind you where your passion lies.