I have had a love for photography and anything having to do with photographs and imaging for as long as I can remember and have been pointing a camera at people, places and things for just as long.
Professionally, I am in the printing and reprographics business and currently run the color reproduction department at Knoxville Blue Print. Before that I worked in the offset printing business as a printing plate maker and scan technician. My entire adult life has been centered on making images or printing other people’s images.
I have been a part-time photographer since 2004 shooting weddings, portraits of people, kids, animals and events. As a younger photographer, I enjoyed taking pictures of animals and places and anything interesting to me, but never people.
I used to think that people “cluttered up” the scenic view that I was trying to show, but that all changed after taking a photojournalism course and a wedding photography course at a local community college. I now believe my pictures are missing something if there is not a person involved to add character and personality.
When Steve approached me with his idea for a “photo based” ministry that would benefit individuals that may not have the means or opportunity to have a family picture made, I thought it was a great idea and I was 100% in. Crosslight Photo Mission has allowed me to get to know my fellow photographers on our team better and meet new people.
The best part about the ministry though is the opportunity to display God’s love to the people we come in contact with. It has truly been a blessing to be a part of this team and show a love for them through Jesus!