Images here are pretty old, not always my best, but they are some of my favorties because these people are special to me. It is because of these wonderful people that I returned to the first love of my life.  I owe all of you a lot and I'll never forget you. - Especially a favorite model, MY David. -THANK YOU -

They are the reason I do what I do now.

The last couple of years since surviving pancreatic cancer and moving to Seattle to live my life on my own terms. I've had many experiences that distracted me from what I enjoyed doing most, but I've found my way back. I'm surrounded by some of the most interesting and unique people.  Together we have grown a fun, supportive and collaborative photographic community that I am very proud of called SPA Studio.

This last year I dedicated an inheritance from my grandmother, the person who gave me my first camera towards developing a place where photographers and models can grow. SPA Studio is a work of love dedicated to the memory of my grandmother. It feeds my passion to help others, it's my social outlet and reprieve from caring for my beautiful 17 yr old daughter Noi who is afflicted by a devistating neurological disorder, Rett syndrome. I dedicate a lot of my time to managing the 3300 sq ft studio north of Seattle. Mostly I help produce and act as a creative director and mentoring other photographers.  I like to work with people that take an active part in the process, I'm creative, but I can't think of everything - it's great to have brilliant minds to bounce off of.

Generally my personal work is probono and for myself. On a very rare occassion I will take on a project that appeals to my heart, that has a story, that comes from the inside of my subject. I have no desire to take a photograph of the exterior, I want to know the soul of my subject. I'm most drawn to photographing survivors, those who have had to overcome obsticles. I find them to be the most beautiful people.

I started out in photography when I was a teen. It was a love affair from the first moment I held a camera and developed my first print. I was a full sized model in my teens, mainly runway, so I have a good idea of what it is like in front of the camera and understanding of what it is like to not be The Ideal Type. I have a background in theatrical production, television commercials; and as producer and director of a local variety show as well as cameraman. I have also worked in radio and voice over. The days in front of the camera were pretty much done by 25 due to steroids for a back injury and surgery scars, but I have fond memories of being made to feel inadequate ; )

My own photography style is simple, up close and old school and sometimes I prefer primative over high tech. My lighting is generally dark, shadowy, moody and minimal. I'm not so much interested in glamor and high fashion, but in more every day natural models, male and female art nudes, personalities, entertainers and character portraits. What you will get from me in a shoot is someone that has the ability to take my time in a low key and personal session, someone that likes to get to know the people I work with, and sincerity. I don't give my opinion aside from saying if I like something when it comes to other people's work. Only ask if you really want my sincere view, I will then give it openly.

I believe in giving young people with ambition and vision breaks. I had many talented mentors that took me under the wing, and I'm grateful for them. I try to do the same in return. I'm more than happy to be a stepping stone for a new model trying to develop. If you are starting out, drop me a line. If you are in my area I'd love to hear from you. I'm looking for models TFCD, male, female, all shapes and sizes.

A thank you to the women who inspire me - Susan Sontag, Cindy Sherman, Elaine Wooden, Ernestine Ruben, Helen Cunniff, Debby Stabenow, Michaela Odone, Georgia O'Keeffe.

I'm also not known for breavity, SO If you got to this point and read all that in this short attention span world I'm really impressed.

Executive Director for the SEATTLE PHOTOGRAPHY ASSOCIATES
My Contact Info;

Phone: 360-363-4947

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