Since I was a child, I have loved photography. I would go to the local drugstore to study photography magazines and dream of the day when I would capture images like the ones I was seeing. These images developed an appreciation for beauty and expression through images. My passion for excellence was kindled in these days.
This passion for excellence also exhibited itself in my life through music. Playing the piano since age 8, taught me the value of practice and preparation. Throughout my life, these attributes remain foundational to my work and life.
In the ninth grade, the subject of my career paper was about being a photographer. In high school, I served as a photographer for the school and worked for a professional photographer. My father built a darkroom for me, and I was hooked on processing and printing my images. Adding wedding, portrait and landscape photography kept me busy into my college years and beyond.
Frequent trips to Chincoteague, Virginia and Sanibel Island, Florida, have provided many opportunities to photograph wildlife and nature. Experiencing the Fall in the Green Mountains of Vermont has offered images of astounding beauty. Two trips to Alaska have yielded images that one has to experience. My trips to Baxter State Park near Millinocket, Maine, offered more unique experiences for landscapes and moose!
Operating my home studio from 2001-2010 was another wonderful experience in portraiture. Photographing families, babies, children, seniors, brides, executives was a fulfillment of my dreams from my teenage years. I enjoyed getting to know those whom I photographed. Opportunities for commercial/industrial imaging added a new facet of enjoyment for me and have furthered a passion for excellence in architectural and real estate photography.
My participation in the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) and the Virginia Professional Photographers Association (VPPA) provides many avenues of learning each year through conventions, seminars, classes and online training. Membership in these organizations helps me to know and learn from world class professional photographers. They also provide opportunities for state and national level print competitions that challenge and hone the skills necessary for continued growth and excellence.
In addition to the conventions, seminars, and special class opportunities, my passion for learning has been fed through intense and specialized education through PPA certified in-depth schools. During the 1990's and 2000's, the Mid-Atlantic Regional School of Photography and the East Coast School of Photography challenged me to continue to grow in my photographic skills. Recently, the Mentor Island Workshop in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, was one of the highlights of my learning experiences. All of these experiences have fueled my passion for excellence and continue to challenge me to provide my best professional imaging and client service.
People, preparation and practice continue to be my foundational philosophy. I continue to update my skills and knowledge in order to provide you with the best work I can offer.
When the ingredients of life, learning, experience and excellence are added together, the images representing your listing, business or home will serve you well as others see your best first impression. As you know, you never get a second chance to make a first impression! Please contact Michael Patch at Property One Photography for your next home or business photography need.