I started out as a birder and picked up photography just as a method of learning and documenting the birds I saw. Then I got the "bug"....I'd get some halfway decent shots with my point and shoot and wanted them to be better. I'm completely self taught, never have taken a photography class and I really need (and want) to. But I learn as I go along, and have met some kind folks along the way who offer their advice. There's nothing I love more than being out in nature, other than teaching others about it. There has yet to be a time when I'm out birding or shooting that I haven't said, "Man, I am lucky to have seen that!" I'm happy to say that my passion for nature and wildlife has rubbed off on those who know me or have seen some of my photos, and they now view nature differently than they did before. Every little bit helps!