My Grandmom

While Corey was in medical school I had no choice but to be the bread winner. All the while I dreamt of (and spent hours researching!) being a professional photographer. I took a class in Memphis and I loved it! I was hooked. I loved how there was so much to photography - not just pushing a button - there was math (lots of it), and technique, and science (how your eyes move around a picture and what's most appealing) and of course art. I started studying and meeting with other photographers and thinking I would most likely live vicariously through someone else - never fully live out my dream. But, then came the birthday call.

In July I was at the beach with my husband's family and I called my Grandmom for her birthday. She was asking me about Cincinnati and what I planned on doing for a job. I told her that I really wanted to pursue photography and that it would be a leap of faith for sure. Education, equipment....it's expensive! She did not understand why I needed to take classes (why couldn't I just call myself a professional and start making money). I explained to her that I didn't want to be one of those who had all the gear, but little technique. I knew I had natural talent, but when it came to shutter speeds and ISO's and f-stops I was close to clueless.

Then, she made my day.

She said, "Well, you know your Grandmom believes in education and if you want to go to school, your Granmom (I love how she talked about herself in 3rd person) will help you. " "Really!?", I asked. "Really", she replied. So, that is why I'm here today. Pursuing my dream for real. My Grandmom purchased me my very first Digital SLR camera - Canon's 5D. And, it is amazing. She has also paid for all of my photography classes. With her, I can now say that I am not just a photographer with all the gear. I know and understand so much more the incredibly complex techniques of photography. But, don't get me wrong. I have a lot to learn and a long road ahead. But, at least I'm on it. Thank you, Grandmom. I will forever be indebted.