My Beginning: Capturing Beauty & Story Through a Lens

In the intricate tapestry of life, there are certain threads that stand out, weaving stories that are meant to be told. For me, one such thread is photography, a lifelong passion that has brought immeasurable joy and inspiration to my journey. Let me take you on a visual expedition into my world, where frozen moments in time come to life, creating narratives that transcend words.

Early Beginnings

My affair with photography began in my childhood, ignited by the simple click of an old Kodak Instamatic camera. Little did I know that this modest start would kindle a lifelong passion. Growing up in a family deeply immersed in the world of photography, I had the privilege of being around my grandfather and uncle's photography and camera supply store. Their travels to exotic destinations, captured through the lens of 35mm slides, would forever leave an indelible mark on my soul.

Sun Voyager, Reykjiavik, Iceland

I vividly recall those evenings when they would return, sharing their breathtaking journeys with the family through captivating slide shows. Those images weren't just photographs; they were gateways to other worlds, stories in vibrant colors that transported us to distant lands.

The Learning Curve

From the awe of those family gatherings emerged my curiosity and enthusiasm. The journey evolved with each step I took, from crafting pinhole cameras to developing my own black and white prints in the comfort of our home. The bathroom, transformed into a makeshift darkroom, became my sanctuary of creation.

My fascination with Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) cameras led me to explore different models, starting with the Canon AE-1 and progressing to the Canon 50D. Each camera was like a brush for an artist, shaping my perspective and refining my skills in the world of photography. Through these cameras, I began to understand the intricate dance of composition and exposure.

It was a tremendous help to learn from David Molnar You Photography Mentor, Tim Sheild's Photography Academy and finally receiving my Masters of Photography from Serge Ramelli

The Digital Era

In 2004, my love for photography led me to invest in a Canon EOS Rebel, marking my transition to the digital era. The camera was a game-changer, enabling me to capture images with greater clarity and convenience. Many of those early digital shots, still hanging on my walls today, bring back memories of my adventures.

As the years passed, my passion for photography continued to evolve. I embarked on journeys to Asia, where I captured the essence of the continent using my Canon 7D and 7D Mark II. These cameras excelled, particularly in sports photography, allowing me to capture the pulse of the moment.

However, it wasn't just about the camera. It was about the art of storytelling through visuals. It was about portraying emotions, experiences, and moments that words alone could not capture.

An Ongoing Adventure

Today, my journey continues. In recent years, I have committed myself to professional photography lessons and acquired cutting-edge equipment, such as the Canon EOS R5. My learning curve expanded into the realms of astrophotography and long exposure shots, seeking new dimensions of artistic expression.

Every click of the shutter is a chance to tell a story, to preserve a memory, and to share a unique perspective on the world. With my SHTravelPhoto brand, I strive to capture the beauty of the world through my lens, bringing the magic of travel, landscapes, and life to my viewers.

Photography isn't just a hobby; it's a lifelong pursuit. It's about seizing moments and creating narratives. It's about finding that perfect angle that reveals the heart of the subject. It's about capturing life in all its brilliance, one frame at a time.

As I stand at the crossroads of my photographic journey, I yearn for the next challenge and experience, eager to write a new chapter that will speak volumes through my lens. The world is an ever-evolving canvas, and I am determined to be the storyteller who brings its beauty to life.

Join me on this journey, and let's explore the world through the lens of my camera together.

Please visit: FineArt America - Steve Hammond