Best of 2021 | Debbie
This week on the blog - we highlight Debbie's year covering Twin Valley South!
Hello, I am Debbie, and I have worked at Champine Photography since 2015. Before joining up with Mike and Trina, I worked as a Paraprofessional in Preble County assisting special needs children and adults for 32 years. When I started with the company we only had two schools. It has been amazing to be a part of such a fast-growing company while doing something I enjoy. I have met so many wonderful people throughout this journey including co-workers, students, parents, and school employees. Many of these people, I can now call “my friends.” This career has taught me to overcome some insecurities along the way. I would have never expected myself to go in front of a crowd of people and do what I do, but there is something about putting that camera around my neck, and building my confidence. When not doing photography, I enjoy spending time with my family, and traveling with my husband, Doug.
When I am editing, I like to listen to all sorts of music, songs from the 80’s, 70’s, and Country, so it is difficult to choose just one favorite song that I listen to. I really enjoy seeing the groups Journey, REO Speedwagon, and James Taylor in concert in the last two years.
My favorite editing snack is anything chocolate.
I love to watch the television show Blue Bloods, and I have enjoyed the NetFlix serieses: Virgin River, and Outer Banks.
My favorite moment this year was when we were able to take mini-sessions for the Holiday Season, and I was able to take photographs of children and families with Santa Clause. Also, I was able to take more baby pictures.
My favorite sport to take photos at is basketball with baseball being very close to being my favorite too.
Something I accomplished this year: I was able to complete an online Photography class through Sinclair Community College to enhance my skills as a photographer and editor. I plan on taking more courses in the future.
The biggest obstacle that I faced while being an employee of Champine Photography is taking pictures at football games. When I first started taking pictures at football games, I did not know much about the game of football; however, over the past six years, I understand the game more, and this allows me to take better pictures!
Average number of photographs taken at events: I usually average around 3,000 to 3,500 per event depending on the type of sport activities or number of games.
Favorite skill or technique that I picked up this year: increasing my editing skills and being able to edit while at home. Also, being able to use different types of cameras.
My least favorite sport to shoot is probably wrestling. This is mainly due to the fact that I am still learning the sport.
Something got me through this year: With all of the uncertainty of the current pandemic, I really relied on my family, friends, and co-workers to keep everyone safe and healthy throughout the year. To be back in the schools taking photographs of students and student athletes and seeing fans in the stands again really made me happy and to be fortunate enough to be working again helped me get through the year.
Something looking forward to in 2022: I am looking forward to continuing to grow as a photographer and expand my duties and responsibilities with Champine Photography. I look forward to taking photographs at more schools and events. Also, I look forward to taking more photographs of babies and children.
