MFA Photography Background

I earned my Master of Fine Arts in Photography from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where I specialized in studio lighting and commercial photography. That foundation in fine art photography continues to inform every professional project I undertake.

Fine Art Meets Commercial Practice

My MFA training emphasized technical mastery and conceptual depth. I studied lighting not just as a technical skill but as a language—a way to shape mood, direct attention, and create meaning within the frame. I learned to see light the way a painter sees color, and that understanding shapes how I approach every photograph, whether I'm creating a pet portrait or a professional headshot.

The commercial applications of this training are direct. Studio lighting skills translate to controlled, consistent results. Fine art training in composition and visual storytelling helps me create images that go beyond simple documentation. Understanding art history and visual culture helps me recognize what makes an image compelling rather than merely competent.

From Fine Art to Professional Photography

My path into pet photography began with a fine art project photographing shelter animals. I wanted to create images that showed these animals as individuals rather than statistics, and I wanted to use museum-quality printing and presentation to elevate their stories.

That project led to both of my published books on shelter animals, and it directly shaped my approach to professional pet photography. I bring the same attention to lighting, composition, and print quality to client work that I brought to that fine art project. Your pet portrait receives the same care and technical precision as work I've exhibited in galleries.

Continuing Practice

I maintain my fine art practice alongside my commercial work. I continue to photograph shelter animals weekly, and I pursue personal projects that push my technical and creative skills. This ongoing practice keeps my approach fresh and prevents my commercial work from becoming formulaic.

The MFA isn't just a credential—it's a foundation that continues to inform how I see, how I light, and how I approach every photograph I create.