It seems like most photographers began experimenting with photography as children, or “from an early age.”

That’s not my story.

My love for art goes back to high school art class. Because my art teacher knew I was headed towards a career in engineering (a left-brained career), she advised me to do creative things regularly, to engage the right side of my brain.

I didn’t find that creative outlet or develop an artistic eye in photography until my first business trip to Asia in 2005. I recall heading out of the hotel on a weekend, walking around with a point and shoot, looking for interesting things to capture. Incidentally, some of my favorite photos are from that first trip. As I traveled to Asia on subsequent trips, I looked forward to the opportunity to capture unique images.

Over time, I have benefited immensely by the feedback from other photographers, as well as from opportunities to offer feedback on their work. Investments in better equipment have given my photography an opportunity to mature with even more creative options.

Although I began taking photos of landscapes and inanimate objects, I have developed a passion for capturing emotions and special moments, especially during weddings. I particularly look for photographs that function as "time machines," bringing a viewer back in time to the moment or event that was captured, helping them re-live the experience.

I pursue images that tell a story - pictures that are worth 1000 words.

         - Manlio Castillo