Welcome to the Ascent Photo & Video Blog!
Using a Super 8 camera in Colorado, photo taken by my brother
Capturing ice forming on a snowy river in my Massachusetts hometown.
Introduction
Welcome to the inaugural chapter of my photography blog! Here, I invite you to delve into the multifaceted world of visual storytelling. This digital canvas is not only a showcase of my portfolio but also a window into the ethos and passion that underpin my work. As you navigate through these pages, anticipate discovering more than just a collection of images or updates on my business. You'll uncover insights into the artistry and craftsmanship that define my approach to photography. From the technical nuances of composition to the delicate dance of light and shadow, each post offers a glimpse into the art and science behind capturing timeless moments. Beyond the technical realm, this blog serves as a sanctuary for folks planning their wedding or elopement, parents worried about arranging a photoshoot with a toddler, or young couples hoping to capture their wild and free love. Whether you're planning a grand wedding extravaganza or a cozy family portrait session, consider this space your haven for inspiration and guidance.
on a trip to Israel with one film camera ad one digital camera around my neck
Before we dive into the intricacies of photoshoot preparation, allow me to extend a warm introduction. My journey in photography is not merely a profession but a lifelong love affair with the art of visual storytelling. From the moment I held my first camera, I was entranced by the power it held to freeze fleeting moments in time. Over the years, this passion has evolved from a personal hobby to a full-fledged vocation. Through endless hours spent refining my skills, I've honed my craft with determination and dedication. Yet, amidst the hustle and bustle of photo shoots and editing sessions, one thing remains constant: my unwavering love for what I do. So, whether you're a fellow photography enthusiast seeking inspiration or a prospective client in search of the perfect image-maker for your special day, or just a fly-on-the-wall fan of my work, I invite you to keep an eye on what's going on in this blog. There's a little something for everyone here! Together, let's explore the possibilities of documentary-style photography and celebrate the magic of moments frozen in time.
Photographing a Color Run at UVM
I'll start by telling you a bit more about who I am, how I got here, and why I absolutely love my job.
How it started
Hiking through Zion National Park's Narrows
When I was fifteen, my dad - a photographer himself - gifted me a Nikon Coolpix. Little did he know, this simple point-and-shoot camera would be the launching pad to what would eventually become my vibrant, enduring, and, dare I say, obsessive passion. From that point on, I carried my camera everywhere, from friends' birthday parties and concerts, to walks with my dog in my Massachusetts hometown, or one the ski mountains of Maine. I even took two years of film photography classes at my high school and fell in love with processing and printing my photos in the darkroom. Above all else, I especially loved photographing people. The intricate details of their faces, the way they interacted with one another, or the subtle and fleeting expressions all drew me and my camera in. The best part? Showing people how good they looked. Photographing someone's essence - what an incredible way to show love.
I graduated high school in 2014, then moved to Vermont to attend UVM that summer. By college, photography was in my bones. It was clear to me that this deep-seated passion was here to stay. My camera accompanied me to campus events and activities, UVM Equestrian Team competitions, hikes in the Green Mountains, and even on a boat or two on Lake Champlain. Wherever I was, my camera was with me. It was during college that I got paid to take photos for the first time. I absorbed every opportunity I could, flying by the seat of my pants, entirely winging it, not knowing then that I would turn photography into my career. Once I got my first paid job, more inquiries lined up from there, and things just kind of took off. Around the time I graduated from the University of Vermont, I dialed into the type of shoots I wanted to do more of, photographed my first wedding, and registered my business with the State of Vermont.
Brand session completed by Bestside Captures
How it's going
In May of 2020, I rebranded and officially launched Ascent Photo & Video! Vowing to utilize everything I knew about working a camera, combined with an innate ability to connect deeply and naturally with people, I embarked on this photography journey for real. From lifestyle family sessions to intimate backyard micro weddings, I found joy in helping my clients look and feel their best.
Fast forward to now, I have become a highly reviewed and recommended lifestyle and wedding photographer in Vermont. I shifted towards a documentary-style approach that enables clients to be authentically themselves, staying present in each moment and feeling comfortable during their photo sessions. Recently, I have been occupied with photographing backyard weddings, traveling to Massachusetts to capture some families there, conducting engagement sessions for my upcoming wedding clients, and promoting LGBTQIA+ photo sessions for Pride Month.
As I reflect on the exhilarating journey that has brought me to this moment, I'm filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the unwavering support and encouragement I've received along the way. Each click of the shutter, each frame captured, is a testament to the countless individuals who have believed in my vision and cheered me on from the sidelines. Whether you've been a loyal follower since the early days or have just stumbled upon my work, your presence in this community means the world to me. As I look ahead to the upcoming season, I'm filled with anticipation and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. From exploring new locations and pushing the boundaries of my creativity, to deepening connections with clients old and new, I can't wait to see where this journey takes us next.
Together, let's continue to celebrate the beauty of life's fleeting moments and the power of photography to preserve them for eternity. So, to each and every one of you who has played a part in shaping my story, thank you. Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your belief in the magic of photography. Here's to the next chapter, filled with endless possibilities and opportunities for growth. Let's make it a season to remember!