My approach is simple: respect the animal and its space. No baiting, no crowding, no staged behavior — just honest moments in natural light. I keep a respectful distance, avoid sensitive areas, and pass on any shot that risks stress or harm.

The more time I spend outdoors, the more aware I become of the places these animals depend on. I’m still learning how to move thoughtfully through these spaces, and I share that learning as part of photographing wildlife in a way that feels responsible and intentional.

I love learning through workshops, and over time I’ve found that not every experience is the same. Choosing the right workshop can be difficult, especially when you’re early in the learning process — and I’ve often struggled to find reliable, participant‑level insight when deciding which ones to attend.

I started sharing workshop reviews to offer an honest look at what the experience was actually like. My goal is simple: to share practical observations so others can decide whether a workshop feels like a good use of their time, energy, and resources.

In my journal, I write from a participant’s perspective, reflecting on things that mattered once I was in the field — how instruction was delivered, how groups operated around wildlife, how the pace and logistics felt, and whether the overall experience matched expectations.

Life outside photography is full and busy in the best ways. I’m a wife to my wonderful husband, Trevor, and a proud Mimi to our grandson, Bear. Trevor and I share a family with four incredible adults, Kolbi, Lexi, CJ, and Kate, each of whom has shaped our lives in different ways.

Most days are a mix of work, family time, and getting outside with my dog, Muphey, along with quieter moments spent reading or simply slowing down. I work full‑time in product management within the fast-paced telecommunications industry, and photography has become my pause button, a way to step out of the noise, reconnect with nature, and pay attention in a different way.