My Story
A Journey of Passion, Family, and Connection
Long before I ever purchased my own camera, fresh out of high school and armed with my parent's trusty 35mm film camera (yep, that long ago but hey, I hear they are making a come back!), I embarked on a life-changing adventure with my best friend. Little did I know that this journey would ignite a travel bug in me that has refused to let go. My story is one of wanderlust, passion, and the enduring love for photography.
The moment I stepped off that plane, I found myself captivated by the beauty of the world around me. The landscapes and architecture I encountered were unlike anything I had ever seen. It was as if I had stumbled upon a hidden world of enchanting scenes waiting to be captured. The camera quickly became an extension of myself, a tool to encapsulate the world's beauty and share it with others.
As the years passed and my travels continued, my love for both photography and exploration deepened. It was during this time that I realized my passion for photography could be more than just a side hobby—it could become a central part of my life. Even while working full-time for a large hospital system in Houston, my heart was yearning for the click of the shutter and the thrill of capturing moments that would last a lifetime.
The Seed of a Business
Photographing only family and close friends was where it all began. Every snapshot was an opportunity to freeze time, to capture the essence of a moment and turn it into something that could be cherished forever. It was this devotion to preserving memories that nurtured the seeds of what would later become a full-blown photography business.
The transition from enthusiast to professional was not a quick one. It took time, dedication, and countless clicks of the camera to hone my skills. But with each photograph, I grew both as a photographer and as an entrepreneur. As my portfolio expanded, so did my confidence, and I was ready to share my passion with the world.
Why "Twenty-Three Photography"?
The name "Twenty-Three Photography" holds a special place in my heart. It’s a tribute to my father, who profoundly shaped my life. After his passing, I began creating a scrapbook to honor his memory. During this time, I realized there were so few pictures of us together from my older years. This stirred a deep sense of sadness and planted the seed for what would become my passion—capturing the fleeting moments of this life.
I resolved I wanted to not only do things differently when I started my own family but also to help others avoid that same regret. I wanted to be a small part in preserving these memories for others. My father’s birthday, February 3rd (2/3), and the number 23, which he wore proudly on his high school football jersey, became a symbol of this mission.
His unwavering encouragement and ability to connect with others, especially in his last 10 years after he lost his sight, have always been my inspiration. Despite his blindness, he never let it stop him from living life to the fullest and did more than most sighted people would do - from cooking to laundry, teaching his grandchildren to fish and wood working among many other things. He had an incredibly positive outlook on life. He turned his life over to Jesus and while never physically healed of his blindness, he many times said "now that I am blind, I can see" -- what was truly important. . . .faith and family.
"Twenty-Three Photography" is not just a business name. It’s a tribute to my father’s legacy and a reflection of my passion for helping others create lasting memories with the ones they love to be cherished for generations to come.
I don't know where the quote originated but it resonates with me every day. "If you don’t think photos are important now, wait until they are all you have left."
Behind the Lens: A Glimpse into My Life and My Passions
While my life's focus has been on capturing the beautiful moments of others, it's also enriched by the love and passions that define me. Allow me to share a little about the things that fill my heart and inspire me.
My Faith, My Family, My Love
At the core of my being is my love for Jesus, a guiding light in my life. His grace and teachings shape the way I view the world and the people I meet. I am eternally grateful for the strength and love that my faith provides. My husband, and our beautiful daughter are my greatest treasures. They are the ones who fill my days with love, laughter, and inspiration. They are my constant reminder of why preserving memories is so important.
Photography and Traveling: My Dual Passions
Photography and traveling are two sides of the same coin for me. When I'm not capturing moments behind the camera, I'm often exploring new places with the same sense of wonder and curiosity that initially drew me to photography. There's something truly magical about seeing the world through a viewfinder. It allows me to freeze time, preserve beauty, and share it with others. Traveling, on the other hand, feeds my soul with the diversity and grandeur of our world. It broadens my horizons and deepens my appreciation for the art of photography.
Alright, enough about me! My photography journey is not just about me; it's about YOU. I'm eager to learn more about your story, your passions, and your moments waiting to be captured. Let's embark on this journey together and create memories that will last a lifetime. I'm here to capture your unique story, to freeze your cherished moments in time, and to celebrate the beauty of life.
