I recalled my experience when I picked up my first camera, a Canon point and shoot in the 5th grade. I took this award-winning picture of jellyfishes at Monterey Bay Aquarium that awarded me $50 and was placed in exhibits. Because of that event in my life, it gave me the motivation to own my own camera. In the 7th grade, I took on a local paper route for The Potrero View which allowed me to save up $900 for my first DSLR, a Canon T2i. I spent 11 years of my life learning about Photography. I never considered photography as a career, since the arts were not seen as a stable choice.
After spending 4 years working in political affairs in San Francisco, I decided to leave my full-time job to pursue photography as a full-time career. I was fortunate for the unwavering support from my family and friends that pushed me to take it further. I can honestly say that its one of the best decisions I've ever made. Being able to have so much fun doing what I love is a blessing and I'm forever grateful.
