It all started during the COVID-19 pandemic, when I found myself with more free time than I knew what to do with. To pass the time, I started music, then drawing and cooking, but I got tired of them after a while. Looking for a creative outlet, I borrowed my sister’s old Nikon D3100, not knowing it would ignite a passion within me that would shape the course of my life.

Back then, photography was simply a way to pass the time. I started by capturing simple scenes around my house, from the antics of my family to the beauty of nature just beyond our doorstep. Every click of the shutter felt great: a moment frozen in time that I could revisit again.

As time went on, my skills improved and I found myself drawn deeper into the world of photography. I began experimenting with different techniques and styles, learning to play with light, composition and perspective to create more compelling images. Photography became my way of seeing the world — a means of capturing beauty hidden in the ordinary and finding joy in the everyday moments that often go unnoticed.

With encouragement from friends and family, I started sharing my photos online and nothing happened. Although I should not have been surprised as it was a random post, it didn’t really reach anyone. At first, I was a little disappointed, but as time went on, I realized that I didn’t care what people thought and continued posting.

I grew as a photographer along with my account. People began to connect with my images, seeing in them the same emotions and stories that had inspired me to capture them in the first place. It was a humbling experience, and it gave me the confidence to pursue photography more seriously.

Last December marked a turning point in my journey — I decided to consider and implement photography as a business opportunity. It was a daunting prospect, but I was determined to challenge myself and see where this newfound passion could take me. From photographing sports, community events and the automotive industry, I grew as a photographer and as a person.

I’m planning to keep up with photography during and after college. It’s a big reason I’m majoring in finance. I want to keep my photography business going and hopefully turn it into a full-time job some day. I hope to carve out my place in the photography industry, seizing every opportunity to grow and connect with others.

Photography has taught me patience — to wait for the perfect moment, to trust in the process and embrace the imperfections that make each image unique. It’s taught me perseverance – to keep striving for excellence, even when faced with setbacks or challenges.

Perhaps, most importantly, it’s taught me to see the world with fresh eyes – to find beauty in unexpected places. Photography has allowed me to appreciate the fleeting moments that make life worth living, and to cherish the memories that a camera allows us to preserve.