My journey began with a paintbrush. As a painter I was obsessed with how light moves and how a tiny gesture can hold a whole story. I realized a camera could freeze those fleeting moments and share them with others. I fell in love with the way photography captures the real emotion in life’s biggest days—and I knew I’d found my lane.

I took a high-school photo class for an easy grade—and it flipped a switch. I got obsessed with cameras, color, and making honest pictures. When my daughter was born, she became my favorite subject. Friends saw those photos, then neighbors. Someone asked if I’d shoot their wedding. Then another. Before long I was traveling to venues across Arkansas and beyond, making images that felt true to the day.

These days I’ve stepped off the weekend circuit to be present with my daughter—while staying hands-on where it matters most. I personally oversee and complete the editing for our galleries, and I train our photographers directly so every couple gets the same calm approach and clean, timeless color Bear is known for. Mentoring new talent lets us say “yes” to more couples without ever saying “maybe” on quality.