Owning the Dream

I began taking photography seriously about six years ago, when I purchased my first Canon Rebel….

I had no idea what I was doing – didn’t know the first thing about the technical aspect of photography, but always loved the art and creativity of it.  And, photography makes me incredibly happy.  I love to venture out, camera in hand, and shoot everything and anything that interests me – especially wildlife.

About two years ago I decided to that life was too short and I was going to spend my time focusing (pun intended) on making my photography career happen.

I got hired with the Teddy Bear Portraits division of Nationwide Studios, out of Tennessee.  They provided me with a studio set-up that is top of the line (lights, backdrops, props, camera, etc.), and I travel to private schools and preschools in South Florida, shooting professional portraits.  Teddy Bear Portraits does incredible work: http://www.teddybearportraits.com

The thing about photography?  It’s complex – there’s a lot to learn and getting a handle on the technical aspect of using the camera is not easy, but I’m getting there and learning new things every time I pick up my camera.

I love photographing people and kids – but my passion – my favorite things to photograph are landscapes and wildlife – I love being outdoors with the birds and the bugs!

You can see more of my photography here:  Andrea O’Connell Photography (on SmugMug)  and here:  Andrea O’Connell Photography

Anyway, I’m working really hard at photography – to make the dream happen.  The truth is, times are tough, but I’m owning the dream and going for it 100%.

So, that’s what I’ve been up to.

Here are a few of my recent captures:

The beautiful Roseate Spoonbill

The Snowy Egret

The Swamphen, aka, Gallinule

An old Florida home

At the South Florida State Fair

Capturing the Sweet Smile

The Brown Pelican

Tender Anhinga couple on their nest

Sunset over Green Cay Wetlands

The sunset through the trees at Green Cay Wetlands

Fiery sunset on the boardwalk at the Green Cay Wetlands

A slideshow:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.