About

My path to photography wasn’t a direct one – far from it.   I always loved art growing up, but aside from childhood plans on being a cartoonist, my artistic side didn’t receive much time or attention.  An academic background in education and the sciences, including a stint as a PhD student in molecular biology doing breast cancer research, a few years of computer science classes, and a Master’s in Teaching thrown in there as well eventually led me to a career as a high school science teacher in Spokane, WA.

For most of my life the free time I did have was spent golfing and working out.  I was fanatic about both, but in my mid 20’s a neck injury resulted in a surgery and subsequent issues that would prevent me from pursuing them like I once had.  Photography would soon fill the void that resulted.  I purchased my first ‘real’ camera after several years of using a small point and shoot and wondering why my images never achieved the look I was hoping for.  With a camera in my hand I was off and running again, taking well over 150,000 photos in my first year and quickly upgrading from entry to professional level equipment, lenses and lighting equipment.  With countless hours of practice, reading, studying, and the support of several professionals who had helped me by offering advice and (sometimes quite brutally) critiquing my images, I eventually felt ready to take that next step and start my own business.

As a photographer, I work not just to create images for my clients, but also to provide an experience that they will remember in the future.

My services page details the variety of photographic services that I provide.   If you have a need that isn’t mentioned there, don’t hesitate to ask me about it.

Remember that a photo shoot can be as traditional or creative as you’d like.  A family play day at the park might produce images that are much more memorable than will a formal family portrait session and the emphasis on the experience (the family having fun together) as opposed to the image (“everyone say ‘cheese!'”) will produce those natural emotions and smiles that you will remember fondly for years to come.  I hope to hear from you soon.

Eric Strate