I grew up always making art, from coloring contests with the cousins, drawing on my Mom’s notes for dance, trying to get the most realistic sketch of a horse and so on. There was always a camera on every summer vacation to document the good times that we were having. I think this was when my love for photography started, especially the documentary style.

I went to art school from the 6th grade all the way through college. After I graduated from high school at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, I went to Florida School of the Arts for college. At that time I really began to focus on photography knowing that it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life! After graduating from Florida School of the Arts I continued on to University of Florida, majoring in photography. In 2002, I graduated on the Dean’s List with a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Photography and a minor in Fine Arts.

Shortly after college I packed up and moved out west to Los Angeles! College had prepared me for the art world and L.A. taught me about the real world. I learned and grew so much as a woman and especially as an artist. I started working as a photographer’s assistant, moving up to main photographer, and eventually as lead photographer. I gained a lot of experience with all aspects of photography. I was shooting weddings in Orange County, bands on the Sunset strip, head shots for up and coming actors and actresses, and family portraits. I was all over the place and loving it!

After meeting the man of my dreams and getting married, we decided to move back to my hometown in Jacksonville, Florida in 2008. Now, I am growing my business here. I have brought all of my experience from living and working in Los Angeles back home and I cannot wait to continue working and doing what I love most, making art!

Why I love making “Forever Memories” by documenting life…

Weddings

I love photographing weddings because it is such an exciting day with so much beauty. Being the one person to follow around two people so completely in love and documenting their every moment together is a one of a kind experience. Capturing those beautiful images that look posed but are actually a genuine moment in time is priceless. I love making this day unforgettable!

Portraits and Family

Every year my Mom had photos taken of me on my birthday and a family portrait. Looking back on those photos always makes me giggle because portraiture has changed so much over the years. Today, portraits are unique pieces of art. There is nothing like having artwork of your family hanging on your walls. It is a sure way to make a lasting impression on visitors and adds such a personal touch to interior decorating. Portraiture captures life as it is now and preserves it forever.

Bands and Head Shots In order to get noticed you have to be remembered! I love collaborating with other artists to create memorable artwork in order to advance their careers. The possibilities are endless. I also love documenting a performer while they are on stage. They are giving it everything they’ve got which always makes for amazing images.