Whether it is graduation or the love of a couple joining each other in the sanctity of marriage, it gives me great joy to be connected to these special moments. This gives me tremendous joy to experience and photograph. When I was about twelve years old, my father gave me my first 35mm film camera for Christmas. I had a lot of fun with it and enjoyed learning to develop photos with my father, a pr
ofessional studio photographer in Lewiston, NY. However, I did not follow the same career as my father. For twenty years, I worked as a counselor, art therapist, and in ministry. Helping others to see their own worth and beauty would become the most important component of my photography. It wasn't until returning to college that I became aware of my passion for photography and my early influence. Dealing with people’s emotions is a great honor that as a counselor that people entrust to me. Because I am deeply connected to emotions, I realized that being behind the camera for the most joyous occasions, such as weddings and special events were equally rewarding and a privilege. For twenty years, I counseled with people from all walks in their difficulties helping to see their own beauty and worth because I can see it even when they don't. I see people with my spirit, and the camera is only another tool I can use to bring that inner beauty out of everyone. Happiness and joy, sorrow and despair, these are some of the emotions that are universally felt. When I am making images, I am always seeking to “feel” something. When I feel it, I know I have a great image. Sometimes I am not sure what it is I feel, but it is genuine.
