As a nature photographer specializing in flower photography, my greatest passion lies in seeing and capturing the beauty of flowers and botanicals up close. It is the small, often unnoticed details that draw me to my subjects - the lines, patterns, textures, curves, and unique personality of each subject. It is my belief that if we slow down and look at nature in a more contemplative way, we will find subjects that convey impact, and emotion and elicit stories. It is the process of creating an image, that intimate dance between the photographer and subject where stories and emotions emerge that is most important.With a lifelong involvement in the arts and a deep love of nature that started in childhood, photography became a perfect way for me to share my vision of the natural world with others. I have been photographing since I was given my first camera at age ten. My first career as an art therapist has shaped the way I view art and has reinforced my belief in the healing power of both art and nature. My goal as an educator is to help others see in new ways, unleash their creativity, and bring their heart into their work.   On any given day you will find me at my favorite place to photograph, the Chicago Botanic Garden. The Garden's 385 acres give me a constantly changing palette of color and light and bountiful subjects to capture. I was commissioned by the Garden to do a solo exhibition of her orchid photography, displayed in 20 larger-than-life panels during the Orchid Show, 2015-2017. My flower photographs are in private collections around the country. I am a team member and presenter for Out of Chicago Photography. I love sharing my passion for flower photography at conferences and workshops across the country, and I do private mentoring and small workshops at the Chicago Botanic Garden. As a Lensbaby Ambassador, I am passionate about using Lensbaby lenses in my own work and I love teaching others how to enhance artistry and bring emotion into their work with these unique lenses. My ebook Creative Flower Photography: An Illustrated Guide to the Magic of Lensbaby Lenses is sold on my website. I am firmly committed to the idea that we should never stop learning, growing, experimenting, and, most of all, having fun with photography.

Professional roles: Author, Photographer, Teacher

Location: United States