My journey in portrait photography began at age 21 at one of the most prestigious technical photography schools in the world - Brooks Institute, located in Santa Barbara, California. While many photographers are self-taught, I chose to build my foundation through formal education, earning my Bachelor of Arts in Portraiture. I want to share how this technical background shapes the way I create your family's legacy portraits.
The Brooks Institute Difference
Brooks Institute was known for its rigorous technical training and uncompromising standards. Unlike today's digital-first approach, my education began with understanding the fundamentals:
- Mastering light in all forms
- Understanding the chemistry and physics of photography
- Learning classical portraiture techniques
- Developing a deep appreciation for the technical precision required in professional portraiture
This foundation wasn't just about learning to take pictures - it was about learning to create art that stands the test of time.
Technical Excellence Meets Artistic Vision
My training at Brooks taught me that exceptional portraiture requires both technical mastery and artistic vision. Today, I bring this dual approach to every portrait session:
Technical Mastery:
- Precise control of both natural and studio lighting
- Expert understanding of color theory and skin tones
- Mastery of professional equipment including Hasselblad and Canon systems
- Advanced knowledge of archival printing and presentation methods
Artistic Elements:
- Classical composition principles
- Emotional storytelling through imagery
- Understanding of form and dimension
- Creation of timeless aesthetic appeal
From Film to Digital: A Solid Foundation
Starting with film photography at Brooks Institute instilled disciplines that remain crucial even in today's digital age:
- Getting things right in-camera rather than relying on post-processing
- Understanding the subtleties of light and shadow
- Paying attention to every detail before pressing the shutter
- Appreciating the value of a carefully crafted final print
This background is why I focus on creating finished artwork rather than just providing digital files. I understand that a true portrait is more than just an image - it's a piece of art that should be properly crafted, printed, and displayed.
Why Technical Excellence Matters for Your Portraits
The technical foundation I received at Brooks Institute directly benefits your family portraits in several ways:
- Consistency: Every image is created with proven techniques that ensure beautiful results regardless of conditions
- Quality: Understanding the technical aspects means your portraits will meet museum-quality standards
- Longevity: Knowledge of archival processes ensures your portraits will last for generations
- Artistry: Technical mastery frees me to focus on capturing genuine expressions and connections
Creating Your Legacy
While my journey began in the technical halls of Brooks Institute, it continues today in creating lasting legacies for families like yours. Every portrait I create combines technical excellence with artistic vision to produce something truly special - artwork that will tell your family's story for generations to come.
Ready to Create Your Family's Legacy?
If you're interested in portraits that combine technical excellence with artistic vision, I invite you to reach out for a consultation. Let's discuss how we can create artwork that your family will treasure for generations.
