About Deborah
Just call me Deb. Sure, I’ll answer to Deborah, too. (That’s a bit formal though as soon as you get to know me – even a little.)
Roots
I was born in Watford City, North Dakota. My parents nurtured my wanderlust and I have always been a seeker, a dreamer, and an “outdoor girl” with a desire to do good things in the world and find the best in people.
Passion
My passion for photography began over thirty years ago when I purchased my first camera with a high school art scholarship (let the adventures begin ). I spent about fifteen years in a content, mobile lifestyle, primarily working as an outdoor educator for the National Outdoor Leadership School, traveling domestically and abroad. In due time, I earned a BA in Cultural Anthropology from Hamline University in St. Paul, MN.
For the past twenty-two years, I have made my home in rural Ely, Minnesota, a unique area, where I find endless visual inspiration from the stunning northwoods environment in all times of year. Be it photographing people, running a business, Nordic ski racing, running or wilderness travel, I love to set benchmarks and work hard to achieve them. One such goal was realized in January of 2007 when I opened my Gallery & Portrait Studio in Ely.
Style
My photographic style is also my personal style. It all starts with my three word mantra: honesty, integrity, listening. When I am invited to photograph you, your extended family, or your children, I consider it an honor.
I am a bit reserved person and still appreciate good humor and laughter. I have learned that my calm and patient demeanor opens the door to listening and learning about you. My goal is always to:
- Acknowledge the uniqueness of each person I photograph
- Discover the nuances and expressions that make each person special
- Capture that essence in a treasured piece of portrait art
