It was a little over 4 years ago when I told Paul that I wanted camera that could catch the continuous movement of Aaron & Karina. Both were getting into sports that required more than a point and shoot. I made sure to add that since our family is in Texas and the Army takes us all over the U.S., it would be a great way to keep everyone informed. dido as given a 35mm film camera back in the 90’s but it had died a slow death and could no longer do its job. Paul told me that when our point & shoot died we would get a new and better camera. Well, that came about sooner than he expected thanks to a Cub Scout beach cleanup, Paul’s slippery fingers, and a puddle in the sand.
Of course I had already been looking at cameras and studying up when my dad came to visit us in Virginia and told me that he would buy me the camera for my birthday. 🙂 We headed out and I came home with my new Canon Rebel XTI, 430EX flash, and an extra zoom lens. I would love to say that this was the start of my obsession but, like most photographers, mine began when I was in elementary.
I used to take my mother’s 110 film camera to school and take as many photos as I could of my friends. She would get the film developed and ask me if I had taken the camera without permission, again. Like most kids I quickly said no. The problem with this answer is that I am an only child. Yeah, I didn’t really think it through.
Jump back to 2008, my new toy, a neighbor with her new Nikon and we had a recipe for all kinds of wants and needs camera gear related. Beth and I went on many “camera play dates” to practice and learn. This is how I ended up at the Hampton Roads Digital Photography Club where my obsession grew.
I was soon asked to shoot a wedding for a couple at our church and I went into a panic. They knew that I was learning but they liked the photos I had taken at different church events. I found a mentor at the club and he had about 4 weeks to teach me the basics to get the best images on the camera’s manual setting. He helped me as my second shooter at the wedding and the bride and groom were very happy with their images. Whew!
Since then I have been shooting and learning. I am a loyal Canon shooter and have since added the 50D which was followed by the 7D and several lenses, flashes, camera bags…you get the idea. I love, love, love what I do and sometimes wonder why it took me so long to figure it out. I’m just very thankful for everyone who helped me along the way and continues to help me learn and grow in this beautiful field.
My Family
Paul, who no longer has an office area at home since I have taken over the computer and area for my editing and gear, continues to encourage me.
Aaron and Karina are my favorite models and help me when I want to try something new with lighting or locations. They aren’t always willing but they humor me.
Thanks to my mom who unknowingly introduced me to photography by not successfully hiding her camera when I was young. She is always a willing model.
Thanks to my dad who bought me my first DSLR and lenses so that I could take pictures of his grandkids.
My in-laws have also been very supportive of me and my endeavors.
Scott Quier
My first mentor who introduced me to the Exposure Triangle, Manual, RAW, etc… He also helped me build my first web site 4 years ago. I am forever grateful!
Beth Shaw
My photography loving buddy and camera play-date while we were learning and just having fun. You were generous in including me in some sessions and helping me build my portfolio.
Hampton Roads Digital Photography Club
(Virginia)
Your generosity and willingness to help those with a love for photography is invaluable. I am so thankful to have met all of you and am glad that I can continue to watch and learn from a distance. I do miss the meet-ups.
Will King
I was fortunate to learn lighting and gear from you by watching and paying close attention.
Rachel Brenke
You helped me to realize that I can do this as a business. Thank you for all of your mentorship and assistance. Your workshops have been wonderful and have helped me to grow. We aren’t done yet!
Tiffany
(On the Spot Studio)
Thank you for your patience as you tried to sift through my cluttered mind and figure out just what I was looking for in a logo. You helped me find who I am as a photographer and created a beautiful brand. I have loved our morning chats and will miss them…until I think of a new project.
