I was thrilled to be accepted as a photographer for the independent student newspaper at my university; I still remember how it felt to walk around campus with the roll of film I was being "tested" with for the job, and even more, how it felt to be taking pictures with a purpose.

I had begun to think about shooting weddings on the side around the time I got married myself, in 2003, but it was a slow process. I shot my first two weddings professionally in 2005, on my film camera. I didn't move to digital until after my son was born in 2006, but once I was home with him full-time, I finally started to think about taking my hobby truly professionally. So, although I had been shooting completely from my own experience - the only influence being my work as a photojournalist - I buckled down and returned to the basics, studying not only light, composition, technical skills and capturing moments, but also business skills.

Delving into the creative and technical aspects of my photography business has created the best balance for my life at home with my son. I keep my business limited - 10-12 weddings a year, alongside portraits - to maximize both my time with him and the time I can give to my clients. I'm constantly working on improving my skills, and each wedding is a joy for me to work through, because I get to rise to the challenge by creating something truly beautiful that brings others joy.