I wouldn’t be a photographer if it wasn’t for my husband. Not because he gave me the ‘bug’. But because he is the one who encouraged me to follow my passion.

I got the photography bug for the first time when I was 13. It was long before the digital era and we only had film cameras. I learned to develop film first. This piqued my interest, so I wanted to learn to take photos so I could develop more film. Naturally, I then wanted to learn how to print my images. Over time, I accumulated all the equipment necessary to set up a darkroom in the bathroom I shared with my brother. And enjoyed every moment creating photos.

Pursuing this after high school and college wasn’t encouraged. It’s hard to make a living as a photographer. Well, it’s hard for any type of artist to be successful. We get inspired by having huge fan crushes on actors and actresses, singers and band members and even authors. But the reality is, it’s a lot of work with no guarantees.

Two years after we got married we took a trip to the west coast and visited some national parks in California.

Instead, I started a pet sitting business. I had only intended to do it for a couple of years, and move on to something else. Not photography. But within 3 years, my business who exceeded every goal I had hoped to achieve. I knew I was onto something, so I decided to focus on making this a successful venture.

When I met my now husband, I shared with him my interest in photography. He was the one who insisted I buy a camera. I dragged my feet, but eventually, I did. Immediately, I signed up for a photography class. I joined a photography club and began spending time regularly learning as much as I could about my newly rediscovered hobby.

Every step of the way, from submitting homework assignments for classes I took, writing a blog, experimenting with different equipment, he not only supported me, but also encouraged me. He has always been my biggest cheerleader.

When I first started my photography business, I made a lot of mis-steps. He was there to help me pick myself up and try again. When I let my doubts take control, he was there to shoo away my fears. And when I get nervous before shooting a session, he is there to calm me down.

Many of my clients have met Steve. If you ask him what his role is working with me, he’ll tell you he’s a “gear schlepper.” He is that and so much more. He’s also my dog wrangler, helping to get the dogs attention so I can focus on capturing that “perfect” shot. He offers me emotional support when I get stressed out and anxious during a session. And he’ll act as a test subject when I need to tweak my camera or lighting settings. He’s my right hand man who makes me better at what I do.

Steve standing in for me while I test my lighting equipment and settings.

Steve wrangling a dog being photographed.

Today is our anniversary. My life is better because of him. And I’m a better person because of all of the support he has given me. I can’t imagine not being a photographer now. Because of him, I re-discovered a passion that lights my soul on fire. And I will always be grateful for him. Happy anniversary my love! Thanks for always being there for me and making me laugh!

Happy anniversary to my better half!