The short answer is “no,” I did not go to school for photography. In fact, I’ve never taken a formal photography class. That’s not to say I advise against taking classes–in fact, I would have enjoyed taking some classes–which is why I’m so excited to be attending the WPPI convention and trade show in just a few short weeks! I’m looking forward to learning from some of the best photographers in the industry, and I can’t wait to use the inspiration to grow my business.
But, the long answer (should you care to read it) is that my interest and passion for photography began and flourished while I was a student at Texas A&M University. At the time, I was really interested in international affairs, history, and politics–specifically all things Russian (I still am). I envisioned myself graduating and working for some NGO or the government, probably saving the world by the time I was 25. Simultaneously, I was also pursuing my love for horses by competing on my school’s equestrian team. I began to take photos of our events and found that I really enjoyed capturing the excitement, story, and moments of the day (the truth is, I was and am a much better photographer than rider).
Heh. I can laugh about it now, but I was a very serious and ambitious student with grandiose, albeit unrealistic, visions for myself. I think you have to be in order to apply (yes, apply) for a class called “The Academy for Future International Leaders.” Ironically, during the course of that class, I began to doubt my desires for world politics. When we had luncheons with “influential” people and had to stand up and describe what we planned on doing with our lives, I felt like saying “I want to be a really good photographer” instead of “I plan on working for the state department.” Don’t get me wrong–that class was one of my favorite experiences, and I am so grateful for everything I learned. I would not trade it for any photography class. After I graduated and moved to Pittsburgh with my husband, I slowly began to pursue my dream of being a wedding photographer, and I absolutely love my job!
So, while I never took a photography class at A&M, my college experience as a whole is what really helped me start my photography business. That’s the long answer to the question!
Here I am, short girl standing way on the left with President H.W. Bush during my international leaders class. I was going places.
Some of my old work from equestrian team days.
Western riding was a whole other game.
I definitely learned how to anticipate “the moment.”
But one of my favorite things was to capture the emotion and story of the day. Parents were definitely an important support for us girls.
Sometimes it would all come down to one rider to grab the winning points.
It was awesome when they pulled it off.
Gig ’em Ags.
by mary