My Story

Amy Wenzel, a fabulous photographer and Christian woman, is generously offering a seat at her workshop.  The entry requirement?  Amy wants to hear my story…how I inspire others and what the workshop would mean in my photography journey.

So here ya go…my story…

I've been told that I inspire others not thru my confidence and wonderfulness, but thru my relentless efforts to forge ahead in the midst of turmoil and uncertainty.  

In 2009 my husband and I had to close our business of 11 years which was also our sole source of income.  With 4 kids and all the financial responsibilities that come along with it, every day was a test of faith.  Many days, I failed the test.  My very weak, non-inspirational prayer would be "God, I see no light at the end of this tunnel.  You'll have to make a way."  

I would have never imagined that my obsession for photography would be the opportunity for me to help keep our family going.   I had turned down doing "real" photo session requests for years but when they started coming more and more often I decided to start saying "Yes."   At first I just did one for a friend…then another friend…then the email requests started coming…and I started enjoying myself…and the turmoil didn't end…but day…after day…I forged ahead…not knowing what the next day would bring.

I didn't go searching to start a business. I'm all too familiar with the unglamorous side of business ownership.  Reality states that I don't have the resources ~ time ~ equipment ~ knowledge ~  or on-call babysitters to make this business thing really work.  But I have to believe that since I didn't seek this opportunity, it was provided, that the means will be provided as well.  

The ironic part of my recent photography adventure is that I've discovered that children's photography is truly my specialty.

I say this is ironic because, having 4 kids myself, I used to think "Anyone would have to be crazy to try and photograph kids all day!"  Seriously…they're awful!  You know exactly what I'm talking about…the crying…the attitudes…the expressionless faces for two entire hours…I didn't know that was even possible!

But then I'd catch a moment like this between brothers...

…and this one of a lovely little girl that will never, ever, never pose…

…and these sisters, who thought it was cool to hang out with an old lady for the day and hike into the muddy woods...

…and this one, of the reasons I exist…

Since Amy's workshop is primarily focused on the art of children's portraits along with girls seniors {how cool!}, the opportunity to learn hands-on from someone who's been there already would be unmatched.  I'm pretty confident in my editing style, fully realizing that my look is not for everyone.  But I want to be able to achieve the best possible shot to work with…technically…beautifully…wonderfully.  I have soooo much to learn~  

The business aspect of the workshop would be invaluable…I've struggled with my pricing…asking myself "Am I worth that amount?  Can I confidently produce results that are worth the price I'm charging?  As much as I love this job, I have bills to pay!  Is it worth my time how I'm operating now?"  I need advice and instruction and will gladly follow it~  And…if I'm completely honest…the opportunity for 2 whole days of nothing but photo talk sounds like a dream come true!!!

So there's my story, in 600 words or less, and yet there's so much more to be said...