GREETINGS FROM THE 2ND PHOTOGRAPHER!

Good morning, everyone. We've received wonderful responses to Jim's blog over the last few months and people have inquired about Phyllis, the other member of the team. Jim and I both thought this might be a good time for me to guest blog about how I came to be the '2nd photographer'.

I was always interested in photography growing up, but in those early days (the 60's), the images were mainly of family and friends. When I'd go on vacation or have special events, I always had my camera ready to document. I have albums full of early printed images that help me remember many of the cherished memories I had forgotten.

When I graduated college, I became a teacher and for the next few years, I concentrated on that craft. Even though I was busy, I managed to add to my collection of images with faces of students and school projects that I felt were compelling. During one of those years, the local library held a photography contest and I submitted a few images. I received recognition for two of my images which helped fuel my desire to learn more about what makes a good image.

As my experiences in education grew, so did my interest in photography. One of the highlights of this interest surfaced in 1986. Jim's and my family had been friends growing up but he was then married and living in Arizona.  When I found out his marriage had ended, I wrote him a letter. We began talking on the phone and writing each other and from the beginning, shared a loved of photography. We married in 1987 and immediately selected places to visit based on areas to photograph. We traveled to the west coast, Canada and the Islands and talked about our images constantly. I learned a great deal from Jim about exposure and lighting and I believe, he learned about patience and consistency, from me.

A few years ago, Jim retired and I encouraged him to go into the photography business. He is extremely creative and has a keen eye for imagery and I was convinced others would appreciate his talent, as I have. We have received many expressions of gratitude from brides, grooms, families and friends and I am pleased that our followers have enjoyed Jim's unique perspective.

For the past twenty-four years, we have worked together in developing our styles for telling a story so here are a few of mine.