My journey into photography began in the late 1990s when I picked up my grandfather's film camera for the first time. Like many photographers, I did not realize at the time that a simple curiosity would eventually grow into a lifelong passion. Armed with that camera, my first real adventure was a trip through Yellowstone National Park. The landscapes, wildlife, and endless beauty of the West sparked something inside me. I found myself looking at the world differently, searching for moments, light, and perspectives that others might overlook.
Photography quickly became more than just taking pictures. At 13 years old, I was introduced to the magic behind the image itself. My father took me to the old Kodak store where we purchased developing chemicals, photographic paper, and everything needed to build a small darkroom. Using his film enlarger, I developed my own black and white photographs by hand. Watching an image slowly appear on paper in the developer tray felt almost magical. That process captivated me and completely stole my heart. It was not just about creating photographs anymore. It was about creating memories, preserving moments, and transforming a scene into something that could be shared for generations.
Throughout high school, photography remained a major focus in my life. I eagerly enrolled in photography classes and immersed myself in every opportunity to learn more about the craft. Whether it was understanding composition, mastering exposure, or spending hours in the darkroom, I found myself constantly drawn back to the camera. Photography was not simply a class for me. It was a calling.
After high school, my wife Adriane and I turned our shared passion into a business and founded A & K Photography. Together we photographed weddings, families, engagements, senior portraits, events, and countless special moments for our clients. Building that business taught us not only the technical side of photography but also the importance of storytelling and human connection. Every family, every couple, and every event carried a unique story waiting to be told through images.
Today, Adriane continues to operate A & K Photography and has built it into an incredible studio focused on family and lifestyle photography. Her ability to connect with people and capture genuine moments is something I deeply admire, and I could not be prouder of what she has accomplished.
As for me, I found myself feeling the pull back toward where my photographic journey first began: the landscape. Montana's wide-open spaces, dramatic skies, mountain ranges, rolling prairies, and hidden backroads continually inspire me. There is something deeply rewarding about chasing the perfect sunrise, waiting for the right light, or discovering a scene that most people drive right past without noticing. Through my photography, I strive to share the beauty of Montana as I see it.
While Montana remains my primary focus, you will also find photographs from Oregon and other places I have explored along the way. Every image represents a moment of discovery, patience, and appreciation for the natural world.
Photography has been a part of my life for decades. From developing black and white prints in a homemade darkroom as a teenager to operating a successful photography business and now pursuing my passion for landscape photography, the camera has always been my way of connecting with the world around me.
I hope these images allow you to experience a little of that same wonder, adventure, and appreciation for the places we call home.
