I get asked alot how I got into doing photography and if it's always been something I wanted to do or just something I fell into one day. I've loved photography since I took a photography class in high school. As a child I would look at old photos and it always intrigued me. There's just something about a photograph. To be honest, never in my wildest dreams did I think it would be something I would do for a living. Even now I'm not doing it full time, although that is a goal I am steady working towards. I'm a working mother and wife like most of you; doing the 8-5 thing during the week and my true passion on the side until I get more experience in the business aspect and more clientele to keep me busy enough during the week to be able to help support my family. I have managed to set up a mini studio in my home to cater to clients that prefer an indoor setting , newborn shoots and when the weather isn't cooperating (which happens often living in Florida).

I've had quite a few people ask me if I've gone to school to learn photography and the answer is no. I am self taught all the way. I am still learning and will always be learning new things as new and improved cameras & equipment come out. Alot of people don't know the stresses of being a photographer and think it's the easiest job in the world and I am here to tell you that couldn't be further from the truth! Getting started for me was rocky. I had been told that I had an eye for it and always got compliments on my photos but looking back at my work from my first year I can see the difference and how far my style and photos have come and I hope to continue to advance in my work and skill. I still have my insecurities and concerns. I do my research before every session, wedding or event for new fresh ideas and that seems to help me feel more prepared and feel more confident but no matter how prepared you are it won't always go as planned and you have to improvise which sometimes end up being the best shoots.

When I first started I knew nothing about how to use a professional camera. I just picked it up and starting shooting. I googled different camera settings to use for each situation and tested them out to see what I was comfortable with and if it worked for my style of shooting. Some worked and some I am still trying to figure out. The more comfortable I get behind my camera the better my work turns out and the happier I am with the end results.

Connecting with fellow photographers has made a huge impact in my experience as a photographer. It's always nice to know someone is going through the same thing you are and have had the same struggles and can give you some helpful tips. I've made a few friends along my way and I do believe they each have contributed in their own way to how I've grown as a photographer. We may not all have the same style but we all have the same passion.

I've hit a few road blocks over the years, mostly financially, but I have not given up on my dream and refused to let anything or anyone get in the way of making it come true. Luckily I have the support of my husband, family and friends to get me through the rough patches that come with owning your own business and it means so much to me that they believe in me.

I will continue to push and work towards being a better photographer than I was yesterday....