I’m a photographer from Waterford, MI and recently earned a Bachelors of Fine Arts from the University of Michigan – Flint, where my studies were in Visual Communications with a concentration in Photography.

Camera choice?
I shoot with various kinds of cameras; anything from my Holga toy camera, to my 35mm Minolta and my Canon DSLR. However, when I’m on the go, my Canon goes with me.

How long have you been practicing photography?
My love of photography started when I was in my teens with my silly little 110 camera with the square flash bulbs. Most people keep the things they truly love around as hobbies. My love of photography meant so much more than that. I found that my true happiness included having photography in my life full-time and in 2011, I took that leap when I entered in to the University of Michigan – Flint’s Visual Communication program.

Who got you into photography?
There wasn’t any one person, as it’s always been a hobby of mine. However, I love all forms of art. You name it, I love it and respect it immensely. Where photography is concerned though, my idols are Jerry Uelsmann, Sally Mann, Edward Burtynsky, Dan Burkholder, Michael Kenna and Art Wolfe.

What does photography mean to you?
For me, photography is about catching moments that are significant… or moments that can be seen as significant later on. There was a time for me when working in a darkroom was the only way, but I have found that expanding into other mediums has been just as rewarding.

Anything you would like to say to starting photographers out there?
Yes, two things. First, photography is more than pointing your camera at something and pushing a button. And second, if it makes you happy, do it. If the first thing you think about when you wake up is photography and the last thing you think about before bed is photography, it’s time for you to go for it.