October 7th Photography Student Success Story - Debbie Mehlhaff
Debbie has taken several PPSOP classes and we have stayed in touch with her over the years as her photography, and then her photography business, grew. We asked Debbie about her PPSOP experience and here is what she had to say
As you are driving down the street, do you find yourself appreciating and analyzing the sunlight streaming down through the trees? Have you ever come across the perfectly backlit hay field with the crumbling barn and reached for your camera, or, in my case, couldn't wait to bring your high school senior back to the location? Or, have you driven countless hours in search of the perfect graffiti wall? Yes, me too. My photographic journey has quickly gone from a hobby to an obsession....it is my passion.
In both high school and college, I took introductory photography courses shooting and developing film in the darkroom! Later in life, it was my two sons active in sports that drew me back to it, but this time in the digital age. I found myself wanting to learn everything I could to improve. I discovered PPSOP, and as many others have done, signed up first for Understanding Exposure with Bryan Peterson and Chris Hurtt. It was exactly what I needed, when I needed it. Bryan and Chris were not only knowledgable and helpful, but honest in their critiques and caring. What I appreciate at PPSOP is the access to amazing professional photographers each specialists in their field. I truly want to improve and so the more honest the constructive criticism, the better. Like many other students, I have become "addicted" to PPSOP classes and have taken more than my fair share! Although I've never physically heard Kathleen Clemons voice, when I'm moving around my subject trying different angles, that doesn't stop me from hearing "work it". And, you can bet I'm not going anywhere without my "15 PIP" and artist's palette after being challenged by Joe Baraban . Since focusing my passion more on portraiture, I have enjoyed Bobbi Lane's and Kevin Focht's courses. Probably my strongest connection has been in Scott Stulberg's Eye to Eye: Capturing the Face ...I cannot recommend it highly enough. Along with instruction and feedback, the Q&A forum where you can ask questions freely and interact with others is invaluable. The unexpected gift that PPSOP has given me is the close friendship of a group of classmates. We took that very first Understanding Exposure class together and have continued to support each other through the years. I love that photography is challenging and that the learning never stops. Never. And, so as I grow and improve, my education will continue. Oh, I will always have a wish list of classes that I want to take next. I love how they keep me out shooting; they give me confidence and that push. Next, I look forward to the One on One mentoring as I develop and make decisions on where I want this passion to take me.
Debbie
Way to go Debbie! 
Gripped Nikon D810 --- Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 --- Sigma 10-20mm f/4 --- Nikon 50mm f/1.4 --- SB600
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