I was born and raised in Dublin, Ireland and came to the United States in 1978. I presently reside in Aberdeen, NJ. As far back as I can remember I have always loved art and have spent many happy hours drawing and painting. When I was in high school I was offered the opportunity to attend the College of Art in Dublin but due to life’s circumstances was unable to realize that dream. I fulfilled my artistic needs by continuing to paint until I discovered photography.

My love of the outdoors and nature started my passion for photography. As an avid hiker and backpacker I wanted to capture the wonderful sights and scenery I found on my outdoor adventures. With limited knowledge of photography I first used a simple point and shoot camera but with disappointing results. Determined to create the same quality of photos that I saw in the nature magazines I purchased my first SLR camera in 2000. I have to admit that my first photos were a major disappointment to me. I had expected to shoot first class photos because I had used a Nikon camera and good lenses.

So it was that I learned my first major lesson about photography; although a good camera and lens helps a lot, it is no substitute for a creative eye and it is the photographer behind the lens that really counts. More determined than ever, especially since I had invested the money in the equipment, I set my goals on becoming a good photographer. I read and studied countless photography books and shot hundreds of rolls of film until eventually I started bringing home images that I could call acceptable. I’m still trying to capture the wonderful sights I see around me and photography has grown to be a huge passion in my life. It challenges me to keep my eyes open to my surroundings, to really try to see the world around me. I’m happy to say that my photography has progressed enough to allow two exhibitions of my work at the Les Malamute Gallery in Union, NJ.

Presently my medium of choice is digital photography. I feel it is the closest thing to painting because it allows me full control over the creative process. It also suits my temperament better because of its speed and instant feedback. Other than standard cropping, color enhancement and sharpening, the majority of my photographs are not digitally altered but I love the freedom to do so if I choose. This control over the creative process helps me attain my artistic goals. Rather than just creating a technically perfect image I would like the viewer to sense the energy of the sun in a leaf, the magic of moonlit woods, or the magnificent strength and great heart of a jumping horse.

I believe the creative possibilities of digital photography are unlimited and I am excited about its future growth and improvement. I expect to grow and improve along with it and look forward to capturing many more wonderful images.

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