A dream was built, almost 15 years ago.

I had begged my father for a camera for years. They were just too expensive; everything was digital and being upgraded so fast what was the point. I didn't give up; I told him I'd do whatever it took to prove this is what I wanted to do. Not a minute hobby but a career.

A few months later, yard sales picked up. We came across an older gentleman and wife selling his film camera and gear. I thought it was so cool!!! My dad quickly moved on. I bugged, begged and pleaded for an hour. He told me, "No way, not for $150. If you can negotiate them down to $50 it's yours. If you stick with it, & learn to use it, I will see about an upgrade for Christmas." I ran back to the table, so out of breath I couldn't talk. To say I negotiated my 12-year-old butt off would be mild. I told them about my goals and begged if they would accept a crisp $50. The wife looked at me and said, "If you take care of it and promise to never give up that dream, it is yours for $25 dollars." I told her, "You can count on it!". The husband asked if I knew how to use it. I sat for almost 30 minutes asking questions, learning how to use it, adjust settings, cleaning and more.

That couple showed me how to load a new film roll into my camera, even adjusted my strap, and told me good luck. I turned around and immediately captured a photo of my father and his mother. To this day, still one of my favorite photos, and even more cherished after her passing. It's safe to say I got that upgrade.

Now I make sure to capture my family in all our milestones. I also have the joy of helping my own little photographer find her passion and blossom.