The kinds of photography I enjoy most are people and animals. In particular, I am drawn to the eyes. I find so much joy in capturing mood or personality in the eyes. Before this month's assignment, I had never walked up to a complete stranger, complimented them and asked if I could take their picture. The concept scared me to death, but I knew I wanted to give it a try. I am now addicted to photographing total strangers!

I have taken pictures since I was a little girl in about the 5th grade. My first camera was an Kodak Instamatic 10, and I loved it. I felt like I had special power or something … I couldn't wait to get my pictures developed! I would usually have three copies of each shot made so I could share with my friends. I've always been the one with the camera who was ready and willing to record life's events - whether big or small.

I am inspired by "good light". I'll see something or someone and think, "Wow, that would make a great shot! " I don't really enjoy post-production, so when it looks like I can get it right in camera, I'm inspired.

My photography goals are simple: Keep learning and never give up! I want to learn to take shots that make people "feel". I want to be able to approach a situation, person or place, and be able to capture (with correct exposure, of course) what I see and what I feel. Also, because I get paid occasionally for my work at events and for portraits, I want to be confident that they received images beyond their expectations that are worthy of their money.

So far, I've taken two classes and have learned so much. When I signed up for MM, I was very nervous - how could I possibly enter any of my work for all to see? Because of the kindness and generous spirit I experienced, I stayed with it. I can spend hours looking at others’ images and reading critiques and feedback. The people who make up BetterPhoto and Masterpiece Membership have and continue to inspire me and cause me to constantly strive to do better.