A lot of people have asked me how I’ve gotten into photography, to be honest it just kind of happened. I never really had any hopes of becoming a photographer and making a career out of it– rather I just shoot for fun and enjoy the process involved with photography.

I had my first introduction when I was at a STEM summer camp at Alverno College (WI) when I was starting high school and we learned some very basic photoshop. I wasn’t hooked on the idea of it however, until I studied abroad at Mullsjö Folkhögskola in Mullsjö, Sweden (2008). I took a photography class that focused on basics and darkroom photography in Swedish and I also took a photoshop class in Swedish too. I think it’s a beautiful language, but when you don’t know a language and you try to prosper in your classes without a full understanding it can be– well rather difficult to learn anything. Don’t feel bad for me!

In reality this experience of trying to figure out what people were talking about enhanced my observation skills, my curiosity and my creative thinking/problem solving skills. Also it pushed me to get out of my super secure bubble of space and to challenge myself as an introvert to be more outgoing. Of course this took time, but overall as I look back at that semester and everything that has happened since I am super proud of myself for rising to the challenge.

So, you would probably like to know if I learned anything that semester? Answer is yes, I learned a lot– not just about photography, photoshop and textile design things; but I also learned more about myself and about how and when to ask for help. As well as about the culture, language and people.

2015. Today– I love photography and have taught a few courses to organizations and groups such as the Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts of America, and some youth groups; as well as helping out friends with some tips and tricks that I have picked up along the way. I am inspired by the things I see and do, and also by what other people are accomplishing in the world of photography. I carry my camera and extra batteries with me everywhere, because you never know when it’s going to be an opportune moment to capture that perfect shot.

I do a lot of free-lance photography assignments and I challenge myself when I am shooting in the field. For the latter reason I photograph people/pets in two different settings: one that is posed and the other as a natural photo shoot. Case in point check out the difference in the shots of my brother that I will post in a follow up posting to this one; for a natural versus posed shot. I think that both turned out great, but I love how natural shots turn out– they can be borderline magical and genius to some degree.

For other photography subjects it’s all about perspective.

If you would be interested in supporting my work and investing in some photography my prices are listed below and if you have any questions– I would love to answer them for you.