A bit about me…
I grew up in a small town in East-Central Indiana. From there, I learned a great deal about human nature, how we interact, and what makes us the people we are. I graduated from Ball State University with a Bachelor Degree in Social Work, and went on to Indiana University to attain my Master in Social Work degree. I am currently working as Associate Faculty at the Indiana
University School of Social Work. I know what you’re thinking…”WHY is this guy a photographer?” When I was trying to find myself at BSU, I attempted a year or so of photography training, thinking it would be the right fit. This is where my love of the art began. I realized some years later, I wanted to help people in other ways and therefore began a many-year career as a social worker. I have kept up my practice of photography as a fallback and an outlet to relieve stress. In 2011, I was given the blessing to begin a more formal career through volunteering at Footlite Musicals by way of taking head-shots for their incredible, all-volunteer productions. As a result, my want to create a part-time business was born.
I believe my insight into human nature through my career as a therapist, and my affinity and better understanding of the dramatic through my volunteering in the theater community, has given me more insight into what makes a beautiful image. Those who know me could attest to the following: I’m a friendly, good-natured, and laid back professional who will listen to your ideas and meld them with my creativity to produce quality likenesses of you that you will (hopefully!) treasure for years to come.
MY PHOTO PHILOSOPHY
You ARE beautiful.
As I began this venture, I realized it would be helpful to better define and report my philosophy of photography. Through the years, I have honed my craft and learned more about what makes a good photo. Because of that experience, I have learned that a good portrait isn’t about how good looking you are, how much or how little body fat you have, or whether or not you have a flawless complexion. I firmly believe in being true to ourselves in our lives, and that should be illustrated in our images we give to the world. One thing I am often told by those who are thinking about photos: “I don’t know if I have the look” or “I don’t have the body for that.” My reaction to that is generally the same. After I pick my jaw up off of the ground, I remind my new friend of a simple truth: we ALL have issues with our self esteem. We all have confidence that lacks. The only difference between people is that some are much better at hiding it. Why not live a happier life and embrace what makes you different? It has taken me many years to realize this, even for myself. However, within that philosophy also lies the truth: We want to feel good about ourselves, and our photos can portray that. That being said, I also want to be open to your ideas and suggestions in your photos as well. Have a pimple? No problem. Dark circles make you feel bad about your photos? No worries. I can fix that!
Now that you know a little about me, take a moment or two to look at the work I have created.