Since as I long as I can remember, I’ve always loved photography! Growing up in Berkeley, I remember loving all of the amazing photos in National Geographic, Life, and Time magazines. I dreamed that some day, I'd be able to capture all of those incredible moments. I got my first camera when I was in the 4th grade, and was quick to take pictures of all that inspired me. Though at that point, I had no formal training in photography, my images weren’t too bad…or at least, that’s what my mother told me. :)
Fast forward many years to high school, where I was able to take several photography classes. In short time, I became the photographer for my track team, charged with capturing all of our events. This sealed my fate, as I was always found with a camera around my neck. Those experiences led me to take a few more classes at U.C. Berkeley, where I received my degree. While at Cal, I photographed my 1st wedding for a good friend’s brother. It was such a fantastic experience, and everyone loved the photos so much, that I new I'd found my calling.
In 1992, I officially became a professional photographer, and haven’t looked back since. I joined such associations as Professional Photographers of America, Wedding and Portrait Photographers International, and Professional Photographers of the Greater Bay Area where I served as a board member for 3 years. During this time, I furthered my photographic knowledge by attending as many classes, seminars and schools as I could. Because styles and technology constantly evolve, I think it's imperative that as a professional photographer, I keep up with those happenings. I continually strive to further my education, knowledge, and mastery of photography to remain contemporary. It is because of this, that several of my photographs have been recognized with awards and other accolades, by my peers and associations.
In an average year, I ideally do no more than 20 weddings, and a few dozen portraits and engagement sessions. My wedding customers have come to love my unobtrusive, inconspicuous way of perfectly capturing their event. My style is to creatively mix color and black & white, with traditional (posed) and photo journalistic (as it unfolds), ensuring you receive expressive candids, and exemplary illustrative wedding images!
Follow me on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/JeffPetryPhotography