Hello...thanks for taking the time to learn more about me!

I wouldn't claim to be a very sophisticated photographer at this point...but I appreciate the art form. I hope to learn more about equipment, technique, processing and composition as I strive to become more proficient and creative.

I purchased a Canon xsi and a few very nice lenses in May of 2008. This was a real upgrade from my point and shoot! That was the beginning of my efforts to develop some real skill. While I like many of the shots I've composed...there is much more I want to be able to create. I want to my work to be more intentional rather than lucky...and I am eager to begin learning about photo processing and manipulation in order to create more profound pieces of art.

Most importantly...art stirs my soul. I grew up exposed to art on a regular basis...primarily drawing, painting, sculpture....and my heart has always been freed through music. My house is full of art I've collected from artist I've gotten to know from around the world. But I have to admit...I have never purchased a piece of photography...I was never moved by it. However, I decided to indulge my personal muses by purchasing my camera and making the time to connect with the essence of my being...balancing a hectic executive life with something more inspiring.

What I discovered? I discovered so much peace and fulfillment while capturing images. It is solitary...but it is stimulating at the same time. And here at Flickr I am moved and inspired by the photos all of you are creating. My desire to connect with photography as an art form grows everyday! Thank you for viewing my photos...for your advice...and for helping lead me down this path.

Lisa Marks

Grand Marais, Michigan

United States of America

PS. Just so you know: I do not (ok...rarely now in 2009) crop any of my photos. I challenge myself to capture in the lens the precise composition I am trying to achieve. I do saturate or manipulate the color sometimes...however; generally, for now...what you see is what you get. I may get to learning about PhotoShop one day! :-)