I retired in March 2012 after 36.5 years as a chemical engineer for a large grain processing firm. My passion for photography has been growing and now I have more time to devote to it.

I've had a progression of digital cameras (Epson, then several Canon point and shoots) and I acquired my first DSLR October 2010 - the entry level Canon EOS Rebel T1i w/ a couple of lenses, bought as a kit through Best Buy. I treated myself to a Canon EOS 5D Mark III with a 24-105mm f/4.0L lens for a recent birthday and have since added a 50mm prime and a 100mm macro. Wow, what a camera!

I completed six BetterPhoto courses. The first was a 4-week course on how to better use the features on my Canon T1i (Charlotte Lowrie), the second/third were Jim Zuckerman courses, the fourth a Doug Steakley course, next a course with Lynn Eodice on architectural photography and, finally "Creative Light and Composition" with Kerry Drager. I am active in my local camera club, a group of Central Illinois clubs, and The Photo Group 101 (a Yahoo group of BetterPhoto enthusiasts). There is still so much to learn - and I need to find the time to shoot more regularly.

Both of our kids are adults - now out of the house. We have two grandsons: Wesley (born December 2011) and Collin (born November 2013) and they give me many photo opportunities. Another grandchild is on the way and due April 2016.

We live on a lake, so I have opportunities for lake-related photos and I especially enjoy those with reflections. My wife does watercolors - so sometimes she will paint what I shoot.

I strive to improve my ratio of keepers via BetterPhoto - and am pleased with my progress. I have a decent eye for what looks nice - now, to improve my creativity and use the camera to better capture what I'm seeing.

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Updated December 10, 2015