I have often been asked why I got into photography– what inspired me to start taking pictures in the first place?

It all began with my love of the outdoors. I found tranquility in the hardwood forests of Appalachia and spent countless hours hiking various trails. Lakes and streams brought me solace and filled me with yearning for more.

Passion Flows

Like the freestone streams that trickle down beautiful mountains to meander in valleys below, my heart was filled with joy. Passion welled up in me when I spent time in the wilderness.

Have you ever seen a bald eagle catch a trout as the first rays of sunlight break through trees to the east? That’s just one of the many scenes I have been fortunate to encounter and embrace in the mountains. I thrive when I am far from the bustle and confusion of urban America.

Water is Life

Water brings life to the woodlands. It winds its way to meadows and lowlands where it brings nutrients and blessings to what would be barren waste without it. And it stirs my soul.

Whether it is the sea, majestic rivers, or babbling brooks, water fills me with happiness. I love the sound of moving waters. I am moved by it, inspired by it, and want more.

Capture the Beauty

I began taking pictures in order to bring home images of what I found. Somewhere in the wilderness I found peace and joy. I wanted to share that.

My parents and brothers were home-bodies. They did not venture into those places I loved. My first thoughts were to show those places to them. I knew that they would never come with me to my mountain retreats.

If I could not bring them to the mountains, I would bring the mountains to them.

And so it was that I took my camera into the wild and brought home beautiful pictures for all my family and friends to enjoy. It was my way of sharing my passion for the outdoors.

Today, I can share the beauty of this world with the click of a button. When I travel and take pictures, I unplug. I disconnect from the world of computers and up-to-the-minute technology. I return to our interconnected world only after I have captured the light.

This is my world, and welcome to it.

Sit back, grab a cup o’ jo, and take a glimpse at my gallery. Perhaps it will motivate you to find your passion.