My Story into Photography...

I have always enjoyed taking photos. Though it wasn’t until 2014, that I starting taking photography seriously. A good friend and photographer (Star Newman, Acts of Beauty Photography) saw the photos I was taking with a cheap camera, liking what she saw, she decided that I needed a “real” camera. In September of that year, we had an appointment for me to trim her horses feet, (as I am also a Barefoot Hoof Trimmer), Star had a surprise for me. Placing a few in depth photography books on the table, I graciously thanked her for the generous gifts. She smiled and said that, that wasn’t all. She then placed a package in front of me. Opening the parcel I was shocked, to say the least, for there inside was a brand new Nikon D3200. With tears streaming down my face, I was completely speechless. Star has helped me to truly understand photography and what it means to be a good photographer. For that I will be eternally grateful…Thank you Star, from the very depths of my soul.

Life’s Hiccups

This was to be a year that I will never forget. I was diagnosed in March 2018 with breast cancer. There was no questioning the decision to have a mastectomy and my right breast was removed. I was assured that I would not have to go through any type of treatment, no chemotherapy or radiation.

Everything was going great and I went back to photographing nature, wild animals and the occasional family photos, as well as trimming horses within three weeks of the surgery. The blow came when I went in for my checkup at the six week mark.

Thinking I had rocked this latest challenge in my life and everything was going great, I entered the Dr.’s office happy and smiling. I left distraught and on the verge of breaking down. For there had been more than one tumor and I was informed that I needed chemotherapy treatments.

For anyone that has gone through these treatments or know someone that is/has, to put it bluntly… it’s hell. The worst part is that it creeps up on you with every treatment. You start feeling a little tired and with each session you lose more energy, strength, stamina and yes… hair.

Does one ever truly regain their strength, stamina and energy after this? Yes, though it takes years to get back and the older you are the less likely you will ever be where you were.

If you are going through something like this and ever need someone to talk to, that will “get it”, please don’t hesitate to reach out to myself or someone who has been in your place. It’s a tough road with sharp shoulders, that staying between the lines can sometimes be really difficult.

One of my goals is to help those going through and/or recovering from cancer. For you and you only we will set up your fantasy shoot. All you have to do is contact me and tell me what it is… We will make it happen, together.

I want to thank my Family and Friends, that stood by me and helped where ever they were able, I owe you all so much.

My fun times:

Camping is a fabulous way to just leave everyday life behind for a weekend or a week. Our favorite places to do this are… pretty much anywhere that there is no cell service. What’s the point of getting away if you bring the stress with you? Having camped in a multitude of places, I’ve found hidden gems along the way. There are so many wonderful little places to take photos that most would just walk by. The most fun I have while camping is going for walks in the forest and looking for something that doesn’t look like anything special and making it shine (This is also a great way to find amazing places for portraits or family photos). Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t, though it has made me better at my craft for trying.

During spring, summer and autumn, we spend as much time as possible horseback riding in the Alberta Rocky Mountains. The diverse scenery, as well as wildlife, inspired me to learn how to envision and tell a story with a single photo or a succession of photos.

My passion has always been horses and I got my first horse when I was 13. He set the wheels in motion. Joe was a wildie from B.C., that taught me so much, had it not been for him I know I would not be where I am today. Joe taught me how to read a horses mood, which assists me when I’m photographing wild horses, as well as other critters. I would never get as close to these beautiful animals had it not have been for the teachings of my wild boy. Reading an animal is the hardest part of photographing them safely. If you are unable to do so, then please stay back. They are, after all, WILD.

Many of my photos have been seen in a multitude of calendars, newspaper articles and have won photography contests.

I hope to see you through my viewfinder on your next adventure.

Sharon