
Meet Mary
Hey there, I'm Mary Buck, and my love affair with photography ignited when I was just eighteen. With a professional photographer for a brother, I couldn't escape the allure of capturing moments. He pointed me to my first camera, the trusty Olympus Rangefinder, and from that moment, I was hooked.
From mastering the nuances of film to upgrading to the Olympus OM-1 SLR, I soaked up every aspect of the craft. Those film days taught me the value of nailing the perfect exposure, a lesson I carry with me to this day.
Despite navigating through different industries, my passion for photography remained strong. In 1997, I took the leap and birthed Lightscapes Photographic Artwork, a haven for creativity and expression. I opened a portrait studio in 2001 and specialized in infant, children’s and family portraits. I really enjoyed the relationships I formed with families during this time.
Then, in 2009, as the recession hit, a new path unfolded before me. What started as a way to fill gaps in my portrait business became a calling. Over twelve years, I mentored over 1500 eager minds, sharing the secrets of DSLR/ML cameras and beyond.
As the world evolved, so did I. The pandemic prompted a pivot in my business model, birthing Photography Immersion Experiences - a journey of discovery through private lessons and intimate workshops.
In 2021, I bid farewell to my portrait studio, embracing a new chapter focused on empowering others through the lens. Through private lessons, workshops, and online classes, I continue spreading photography's joy and magic to all who seek it. My passion for both capturing moments and nurturing aspiring photographers has flourished beyond measure. So, let's embark on this adventure together, where we'll learn, grow, and master the art of photography side by side. Join me, and let's paint the world with our light.
With a passion for creativity and a steadfast commitment to excellence, I've journeyed through the captivating world of photography as a proud member of the Professional Photographers of America since 1997. While inherently a rule follower, my creative spirit thrives in capturing moments that tell stories beyond words. Through a blend of self-guided exploration and numerous workshops, I've honed my craft, culminating in earning my Craftsman Degree in 2014 and later achieving the prestigious title of Master of Photography in 2023. As I continue pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, I'm pursuing the esteemed Master Artist's Degree. For me, photography isn't just a profession—it's a lifelong odyssey of learning and embracing the evolving landscape of technology within the art form.
WHY PHOTOGRAPHY?
Photography is a Science Photography is Math Photography is a Foreign Language
Photography is History
Photography is Physical Education
Photography Develops Insight
Photography is all of these things but most of all
PHOTOGRAPHY IS ART!
That is way I teach photography
Not because I expect you to major in photography
Not because I expec t you to play or photograph your whole life
But so you will be human
So you will recognize beauty
So you will be closer to an infinite beyond this world
So you will have something to cling to
So you will have more love, more compassion, more
gentleness, more good
In short - MORE LIFE
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