I am a native of West Virginia-living in the same small town and the same small community most of my life.I graduated from Fairmont State University with a B.S. in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work from West Virginia University.I am married to my best friend and soul mate,Christopher.He is the essence of being and my greatest support and encouragement - in every avenue of life.
I essentially grew up with a camera in my hands, a passion I inherited from my father.Graduating from the old instamatic to 35mm,I dabbled and experimented with nearly every format of photography including medium format and digital.For the most part I am a self taught photographer and recieved mentoring from some of the local portrait studio owners and photographers.I honed my craft for night photography by practicing shooting in the low light situations at concerts. I visualize a picture in my head and strive to successfully capture and recreate that vision on film and paper.
My expertise is derived from the 13 years I spent managing a photo lab.This gave me in-depth experiance in color balance,saturation,density and clean chemicals.Each of these elements are vital in attaining the perfect picture.My time spent in portrait studios taught me framing techniques and lighting.
My attraction for barns and broken down farm equiptment was my original favorite to shoot.I challenged myself with night photography and then I shot my first wedding as a favor for a friend in 1990.What started out as a hobby has evolved into a small business.To have a passion for photography and the opportunity to manipulate images and to see the emotions they evoke is very gratifying.I have been fortunate that much of my work began with clients and ended with friends.
As you prepare for your special day,it is important when hiring a photographer that you are comfortable with their personality and confident in the quality of work they will produce for you.
Thank you for researching a little about me in your search for a photographer.Please contact me should you have any additional questions.I look forward to capturing your special moments soon.
~Always~
Michelle