Tuesday, November 15, 2005

Blessed

McCrystal2004-12-03 165905

Well, life is good. That's all I can say. I have my ups and downs like everyone else, but I am blessed in both cases.

I'm kind of a research hound. I love to learn. I especially love to learn when no one is telling me to do it. I've been doing a lot of reading about wedding photographers lately. I've been visiting other photogrpaher's websites, reading blogs and journals etc. One of the coolest things I've found out there is that I'm not alone in how I approach my shooting. I have found some other photographers who seem to integrate their faith into their work and lives.

Opensource photo has been one place that I've seen this in a number of people. I love to know that there are other people who are out there honoring God with what they do as photographers. If you are one of them, thank you!

All Hiz,

Michael J. McCrystal

Saturday, November 12, 2005

Amy and Darren





Amy and Darren met me yesterday afternoon for their engagement portraits. I've known Amy since she was a kid. It's had to believe she's all grown up and getting married. It's really an honor for me to be a part of her wedding. I love working on projects and with people that I care about. The photographs mean more to me.

The ride back and forth to Bradenton is a great wy for me to really get to know a couple. I drive and listen, ask questions and laugh quite a bit. I've known Amy a long time, but Darren is brand new to me. He seems like a really high quality guy. That must be why Amy glows when she gets near him!

All Hiz,

Michael

Start Time

This is a forum for my thoughts and some personal projects I am working on. I am a full time Director of Student Ministries in the Tampa Bay Area. I am also a photographer. I left my growing carreer in photography almost 8 years ago to go into student Ministry. I love it. What an amazing ride this has been for me. I've learned a lot, grown a lot, been humbled a lot and had a ton of fun in the process. Outside of having kids, that move into ministry has been the coolest experience of my life.

Photography is becomming a very important part of my life again. When I first left the studio I felt like a fish out of water and spent a lot of time shooting just to feel comfortable in my own skin. As I grew into the ministry the photography end of my life seemed to slide. I was still shooting professionally, but not very often.

In the past 2 years that has changed dramatically. I don't exactly know where God is leading me, but I am willing to follow. I feel like I have a gift that has been given back to me. Now I need to use it.

I'll attach some of my work soon.

In the mean time my website is www.mccrystalimage.com and you can look there.