I have a natural talent with animals to set them at ease. So many of my clients have expressed amazement that their shy pet will come to me. I've also studied dog, cat and bird behavior through years of observation, books and my local SPCA classes. There are some simple tricks that I use with hyperactive dogs that I'm going to keep as my secret for now.
Working from life is the best way to create a painting since I experience personality and the true appearance. However, sometimes this is not possible if your loved one has grown up or passed on. The more high-quality photos I am given, the better to adequately capture the spirit of the person or animal.
Currently my studio is mobile. I come to your location and quickly set up a studio that features lights, props and backdrops. For pet photography, this is ideal, as most pets remain calm in their home territory. Outdoor photography is another great option with nearby natural backdrops like rivers, mountains, forests and the ocean.
My mother and aunts were artists, so I began painting and doing photography by age 7. I worked as commercial and fashion photographer as well as a graphic artist in the 80's and 90's. When I moved to California in 1993, I began working for a portrait photography company. In 2001, a health scare led me to become more serious about breaking out as an artist on my own instead of working for someone. So I started my business, Progressive Portraits in 2004 after taking the course, "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron.
Portrait Photography
50Oil Paintings
40Other Photography
10Creativity
100