My journey into work started when I was just nine. A friend and I dreamed of owning a go-kart, and his father helped us get started by showing us how to fix up an old lawn mower. We pulled that mower all over town, mowing lawns to earn the money. After some hard work, we got that go-kart.
At twelve, I got my Social Security number and my first official job bussing tables. School kept me busy, and while I couldn’t diagram a sentence to save my life, I kept pushing forward.
Today, at 58 (2024), I’m embracing a new chapter. A back injury left me unable to continue my previous work, so I went back to college and earned two degrees—an AAS in Automation and another in Electronic Engineering—along with a certificate in Computer-Aided Design. Despite this, I’ve encountered unexpected age-related barriers in the job market. But, just like when I was nine, if there’s something I want, I’ll do the work to get there.
That brings me to photography. I’ve loved it for as long as I can remember. In the past, I worked with whatever camera I could afford—often an instant camera with a limited roll. Now, with professional equipment, I can take thousands of shots, but I’m striving to make every shot count, like I’m back to that 24-photo roll.
My focus now is on real estate photography, as I work toward self-reliance in this new career. I’m also in the process of getting my FAA Part 107 certification, so I can take my drone skills from hobby to a business asset.
I don’t know if success will come easily, but I’m certain that lack of effort won’t be the reason if it doesn’t. With a lifelong commitment to hard work and a passion for this craft, I’m ready to make every image count.
