Eric
Eric has spent endless hours at conventions, seminars and classes to absorb everything photography. He retains Oregon’s highest degree, the Fellow of Photography (FP), past president of Professional Photographers of Oregon (PPO), certified Oregon print competition judge, certified Professional Photographers of America (PPA) instructor, has earned his Photographic Craftsman Degree (Cr. Photog.), earned 20 recognized awards, including 5 Kodak Gallery Awards. He is currently working on his PPA Master’s Degree. He has taught photography privately, through Chemeketa Community College, through PPA webinars, and has been honored to speak at PPA’s IUSA Conventions in San Antonio. His work has been featured in “Professional Photographer Magazine” and other publications. In 2011, Eric received his first Loan Collection selection in print competition. Loan Collection images are “the best of the best” in the world of photography. He also earned the “Best Local Photographer” award in 2020 for the Mid-Valley.
“I am a born and raised Oregonian, Stayton High, 1989, Oregon State, 1994. My career started at Oregon State where I was head photographer for The Daily Barometer. My dream was to work for National Geographic but found I had more passion for portraiture than photojournalism. I married my high school sweetheart, Shawna, exactly 6 years after our first date. She is the glue to every aspect of my life. We have 2 amazing young men, Kyle and Kaleb. I love being outside – hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, golfing or boating. My favorite place in Oregon is the Eagle Cap Wilderness. I enjoy making an espresso each morning, watching movies and stupid TV shows. My favorite food is sushi. But, I’ll pretty much eat anything. My favorite vacation spot is Maui. I hope to retire there. My heart is in Haiti. After 2 mission trips, I try not to complain about being uncomfortable. I love Jesus. He is my foundation. All in all, I love being self-employed, doing what I have a passion for, and spending time with my family.”
Shawna
Shawna is the official business manager. She sits at her iMac, diligently keeping track of bookwork, emails, and client info. Her role is critical to the studio’s success. She works closely with Successware – one of Professional Photographers of America’s business management affiliates. Shawna answers the phone, answers questions, books sessions, and helps clients with their needs. Shawna has also taken the task of client viewing and ordering appointments.
“I have been married to Eric for 27 years and we’ve been working in photography together for 23 years. We have two sons that are 20 and 23 and a wonderful daughter-in-law. In my free time I like to go shopping, kayaking, spend time with family and friends, sit in warm, tropical places, and find the next deal with my coupons! I love Padington’s pizza, chocolate, Disney and spending time at the beach. I am passionate about helping others and breaking the stigma on mental health. I feel blessed to have God, my family, and an amazing business!”
Mandy
Mandy joined us in 2012 as our hair/makeup artist. She has been in the industry for 19 years. She does an amazing job and we are so thankful for her! If you want to be “camera ready” go with the Ultimate session that includes hair and makeup done by Mandy. Availability is limited to two days a week June – August. Mandy will not be providing her services for the summer of 2020 due to Covid.
Mandy has been married for 17 years and lives in West Salem. She is mommy to Carson and Hadley. She is so in love with them! She enjoys drawing and do art projects with her kiddos, listening to live bands, dancing, and hanging out with family and friends. She really loves going to the movies, but her husband loves ESPN too much to join her!
Rachel
Rachel is our Photoshop Master, graphic designer and editor. Rachel has two boys and a little girl. She has been married for 16 years. She enjoys working in her yard, baking, Padington’s pizza, redecorating her house, numbers & patters, reality TV, and is OCD about organizing things. She’d love to go to Hawaii, but hates flying.