Elysian Images (TM)

My journey with photography began in high school, when I started shooting for the yearbook with a little old camera I "borrowed" from my mom. There began a passion that has lasted for more than 15 years, and will surely continue the rest of my life...

I actually have a degree in Electrical Engineering and Business. But my passion for photography followed me through college, so I also took time to study traditional film photography, darkroom printing, and digital imaging. Since I invested several years toward a career in Engineering, I'd always planned to pursue photography on the side until I was ready to 'retire' from the corporate world.

I began shooting professionally in 2006, specializing in lifestyle portraiture and wedding photography, and I've been lucky enough to manage my business on the side from my career in Engineering.

Since the inception of Elysian Images, I have chosen to operate as a Boutique Studio, accepting a limited amount of work so that I can remain true to my passion for the art. I'm fortunate enough to get all my work through referrals, and my awesome clients keep me plenty busy!

I may still eventually retire from Engineering to do photography full-time. But for now I'm kinda selfishly enjoying the best of both worlds. I get to work with people from all walks of life, and my work challenges both the right and left sides of my brain. Plus, the Engineering work affords me the stable lifestyle I wouldn't be able enjoy as just another starving artist. In a time when photographers are especially hard hit by the economy, it also provides my clients with the assurance that Elysian Images will remain in business to deliver upon its commitments. With the irreplaceable images of their wedding and children at stake, that is something that I offer my clients above and beyond the full-time photographer.

What motivates me?

My inspiration for photographing people stems from my fascination for all things life brings our way- the excitement, the unscripted moments, and all the unique details that make life beautiful. I enjoy meeting new and interesting people every day, and the lasting friendships that develop with my clients. I love the vicarious emotional experience I have with every happy couple, brand new baby, and loving family I am blessed to work with. The excitement and anticipation surrounding couples in love is absolutely intoxicating, and nothing melts my heart more than the tiny little wrinkly toes of a brand new baby. But the best part of my work is coming home from a long day of shooting feeling completely love-drunk!

I don't do it for the awards or celebrity status. I don't define/limit my abilities through terms like "Master Photographer" or base my worth on how many clubs I [pay to] join or contests I enter. I am devoted to constantly evolving my techniques, and I hope to never become stagnant or arrogant enough to think I have mastered all there is to learn.

Though there definitely are technical skills involved, Photography to me is the humble art of capturing the unscripted songs of life. I feel that my art sings for itself, a tune that people will either hear or they won't. Hopefully, they'll find themselves tapping their feet to a beat that resonate in their heart.

So please take a look at my work and if you have any questions or comments, I'd love to hear from you!