Check out Melissa Jill and a little me

Melissa is a professional photographer getting ready to teach a class in Ireland(I think). She has been traveling
all over Europe taking some awesome pictures. Check these out at her blog. I have to admit, after hearing her story about getting into photography, it really inspired me to start my own business.

In a way my story is similar. I did take some photography classes in High school. But I also took a couple in College. Though, my career took off in programming (My current day job:). I continue to take lots of pictures (just ask my wife). My mom started her photography career a few years ago. I never thought I could do it as a business. I always dream of owning my own business. Shoot, back in 2000, my wife and I put together a business plan for a online video service. It wasn't until this year that I was able to see that it could work. Subscribing to photogs and seeing all the other start up photographers, I realize I could (especially finding Melissa's blog). Also, the encouragement from my wife (thank you so much Bonny), my mom, and praying about it help give me the push. I am no where near able to quit my day job. But I do believe, one day my day job will be switched.

The next step for me is to find my Jedi Photography Master. I have read and heard that each starting out photographer needs one. So I am looking...anyone :).

So, for me I will keep taking pictures. It is something that I love. The joy of looking back at those images and remembering. They say that smell is the best memory of all. I don't disagree. But to look at the image and then close your eyes, and see all the other memories that link to it. It is like feeling the first drop of rain and then the down pour. Even looking at images where I was not there. My mind can still imagine. What a wonderful thing God has given us.

If you are in the Conway, AR area (I can travel a little), feel free to send me an email at reflectionsbythehill@gmail.com.