I spend WAY too much time on photography forums. The forums are places to go to learn photography techniques, business concepts, how to interact with clients . . . you name it, it’s probably been discussed on a forum. In fact, I spend so much time on the computer that the forum members have become my friends – only friends I’ve never met. It’s almost like having imaginary playmates – only these friends actually exist, just not in my neighborhood. But last week opportunity knocked on my door. Well, actually it sent me a personal message – but you know what I mean.

Charo, a forum member I’ve known for a couple of years online, wrote asking if I could take some head shots for her. Charo is an extremely talented photographer from Wilmington. She was one of the first people to call and offer help last year when I became ill and couldn’t fulfill the weddings I had contracted. I was excited that she had asked me to do this for her – but very nervous. And since my studio is the great outdoors – I also had to worry about the weather. As luck would have it, it started to rain just as Charo pulled into my drive. After visiting for a while and finally getting to know one another in person, we noticed the rain had stopped so we went to downtown Jacksonville to take some pictures. I had a great time – but never quite got over feeling nervous. Now I know how my graduates feel when I’m a patient in their chairs! Charo was fun and easy, though like most photographers she prefers to be on the other side of the camera. It was great getting to know her and I look forward to seeing her again very soon. Check out her work at www.charophoto.com.