Photography offers me a means to shape how viewers perceive objects, people, and landscapes by framing and coloring specific scenes with intention. What drives me artistically is the prospect of being seen more clearly, or the opportunity for someone else, perhaps some stranger, to get a glimpse of how I’ve always seen the world. I shot the few pieces represented in this portfolio over the course of years, both in and out of provided class time. I enjoy using my time in photography class to sharpen my technical skills, and then I take what I’ve learned into real, unrestricted situations. Through this process of learning and applying, I’ve grown artistically and personally, stepping into my own style with every shoot. I’ve met new people, including the man pictured in “Holy Man From Foodbank” (top right). During that shoot, the subject shared a story about a large Virgin Mary tattoo on his upper right arm—an impulsive decision from his youth. Although the tattoo isn’t visible in the image, this detail influenced my decision to photograph him in front of a church. While the meeting occurred at a food bank and our primary interaction involved serving food and conversation, those circumstances did not define his identity, which I aimed to capture in his portrait. This image is one of many that reflect the stories I’ve gathered over years of practice. While my initial motivation for taking photographs centered on shaping how the self is seen, my enduring commitment to photography stems from the opportunity to shape the stories of others. I believe that viewers—often unfamiliar with photographic techniques or processes—can still sense story and emotion behind an image. That connection, felt from the other side of the glass, remains the ultimate goal of my work.
The Arch - Film
Most Important Meal of the Day - Digital Photograph
Holy Man From Food Bank - Film
Someplace to be - Digital Photograph
I Have That Rest Too! - Digital Photograph
Hill - Film
Flamingo Fandango - Digital Photograph
In the Zone - Film
Family Farm - Digital Photograph
Bright Citrus - Digital Photograph
