As I start this blog, I would like you to know about an amazing opportunity I have to develop my passion by studying with a photographer who I truly admire. Amy Wenzel has developed her craft and creates amazing images that truly capture a moment in time. Currently she is offering an opportunity to particpate in one of her workshops that will be awarded to a deserving person. Amy asked us to write in 600 words or less how we have inspired, loved and served others along with how this would help us personally in our photography journey. I'm not the best of writers, but I can not tell you how much I would love to win this chance to study with Amy, so here I go....
I have been blessed in life.
God gave me 15 years to share with my father before he passed away from a brain tumor. My father had a love for flying and photography and I have followed in both.
God gave me a mother who then showed me how to continue thru life and follow my dreams. I've been a flight attendant, a job I dreamed of as a child, for 20 years. I still enjoy going to work with a smile in hopes that it can make a difference in someone's life. I always say "A day goes by much better with a smile than it does with a frown."
God gave me a wonderful man to call my husband and best friend. He blessed us with a beautiful daughter who in her 4 years has taught me more than I could ever imagine. Meghan was born with a rare medical condition and after being told that she may not survive, we cried and as my husband held me he said "We are in it to win it!" and we are still in it. Meg's first day of life included surgery and she's had 26 more with another scheduled this fall. God has given us ALL the strength to get thru this, from her little body struggling to survive to the faith that has carried us thru the toughest of times. We have vowed that we will leave no stone unturned to providing her as normal a life as possible. So, despite the need to be vigilant... daily treatments, double sized diaper bags to account for medical necessaties, emergency trips to the hospital, we revel in the little things that most people take for granted.
This now brings me to my camera. I've always had a camera in hand though my SLR didn't come until going into pre-term labor. The doctor told my husband I deserved diamond earrings and I said "No! I deserve a Canon Rebel." My camera brought incredible joy! My passion for photography was always there though only shared with a few. After Meg was born I wanted to take advantage of every smile, silly face and precious moment she gives to me and share with family and friends. I then started doing sports photography to document my nephews and there love for sports. The smiles when they saw the pictures meant the world and with this, I inspired my mom to take an interest in photography as well. I've taught her what I know and gave her my Rebel after I purchased my 50D. She's now the high school and junior league photographer and loves it! This has also made our relationship stronger as we share this interest and learn together.
I'm now working to expand my knowledge and skills with photography to help others capture those special moments in life. I've been inspired by Amy's photography and would love to study with her. I feel her workshop would truly take me to the level I need personally and professionally to start my business. My husband made my website and supports my endeavors, but I need this workshop to give me full confidence in my work. I long to photograph those with special needs and illnesses. I want to be able to give my very best to all when capturing those moments as I know all too well how precious they really are.
Here is a link to iheartfaces to check out the contest and read others stories -
http://www.bit.ly/95o58E
