After years of searching, self-discovery, living life and overcoming trials… 

I have fallen in love. Again.

With Photography.

In truth I have always loved it; there has been a life-long affair between myself and the arts, with beauty and creative expression.  Photography has always captured me, in the same way the camera captures within its display the light and color of the world it reflects.

I began with a Polaroid point-and-shoot in the 80s, and disposables in the 90s, as the fun and carefree hobby that so many other children likely did at the time, yet behind the child-like whims an inner passion lay dormant. Art and Photography classes in school lit small sparks, as did the prodding and support of family and friends. But life and other pursuits kept me only well acquainted with my camera, and it wasn’t until I had my own children that the fire truly ignited into a full-blown affair. When my second child was born, and soon after my mother passed away, I realized more than ever the importance of clinging to anything that brings you joy.

I decided to dive head-on. I had already self-taught in some web-design and photo editing, and gone through photography classes in high-school. With the support of family & friends I enrolled in the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division Photography program. I learned how to use my semi-professional camera and lenses, how to edit and organize in Photoshop & Lightroom, and I began building and marketing and working. I am now photographing as a semi-professional, and I am enjoying every minute of it!

This journey has been a slow and difficult one, but also rewarding and so much fun! I am amazed every day with the opportunities that I have been given, and I look forward to seeing where this relationship takes me! Every day I see how God is opening up new doors and opportunities – it is my strongly held belief that someday soon this passion of mine with absolutely flourish!

I absolutely love discovering interest and beauty, as well as helping others to see that -both all around them in the world, as well as within themselves; photography is just one of the amazing outlets I utilize to do that.

I invite you to explore this love of Photography with me!

~Leslie Byrd ❤️