In today’s digital world, it’s never been easier to look like a professional photographer — even if you’ve barely picked up a camera. With a few keystrokes and some AI-generated copy, brand-new photographers can now launch polished websites, sleek bios, and marketing language that mimics the voice of seasoned professionals.

And while technology can be a helpful tool, it’s also creating a troubling trend: inexperienced photographers using AI branding to misrepresent their skill level — and devalue the work of true professionals.

Captured from above, a single tulip unfurls its rich pink petals against a backdrop softened by shadow and shade. The flower’s tender curves and subtle textures draw the eye inward, celebrating the quiet beauty of spring’s early bloom.

For years, I hesitated to call myself “award-winning.” I thought honorable mentions were handed out like participation trophies — something photographers tossed around without much meaning.

But this year, I took a hard look at what it really means to receive recognition from prestigious international competitions like PX3 and IPA — and I realized just how rare and significant those honors are.

Smooth Illumination features a newborn stud colt affectionately known as Lumi, resting peacefully not long after his entrance into the world. Bathed in soft, natural light, this intimate portrait reveals the tender vulnerability and gentle spirit of new life.

Every photographer has heard it at some point: “It will be great exposure for you.”

On the surface, that might sound like a compliment. But here’s the truth — exposure doesn’t pay the bills, put gas in the car, buy equipment, or cover the time and skill poured into making each image.

I wasn’t riding, just observing. Watching the quiet rhythm between horse and rider as they moved across the gravel and past the mill sheds. I had my camera with me and started taking snapshots — not posed, not planned, just the kind of images that tell their own story when you look back on them.

Captured in outdoors with a cell phone using the flash to provide light, Red Rose is a study in shadow and saturation — a moment where depth speaks louder than detail. There’s no clutter. No distractions. Just a single bloom in a quiet conversation with the dark.

Perched was captured in the quiet edge of morning — that soft, in-between light when the world hasn’t yet remembered to rush. I was sitting on a friends porch, watching a blur of motion flicker through the air, the unmistakable hum of wings moving faster than the eye can follow just wait, patiently for the photographs to present themselves to me.

On September 13th, 2025, I had the privilege of donating my fine art image The Call to the Veterans & First Responders Jamboree in Cadiz, Ohio.

This annual event, held on the second Saturday of September, brings together community members to honor and support the men and women who put their lives on the line every day — both at home and abroad.

Some of the best days with a camera are the ones you never planned on.
August 17th, 2025, was supposed to be just a regular day — no sessions, no shoots, just a quick trip to hang out with my sister and her friend while they made a brief appearance at a local horse show.