Hi! I am Michelle Stieb. Married to Gordon. Two children. Live on a farm with many animals. Two dogs, numerous cats, goats, chickens, cows and llamas:)
I'll tell you a little of what led me to be a photographer... I've loved photography almost my whole life. It started with this older man in my hometown when I was about 14 years old. He had this old Kodak camera and took the most amazing pictures of flowers, plants and people. He used to invite me into his home for some juice, Wrigley's gum, and a visit :) His house was filled with beautiful, framed prints, on the walls and stacked on the floor. He definately needed a larger home to showcase his work. I was totally amazed at his passion!
Fast forward a few years to my first 'real job' at a newspaper company when I was 19. I had a friend there that also took pictures as her passion. She would always show me the work she did and I loved all of it! These two people sparked my passion for photography that has grown from a small, home-based business to having a studio of my own!
I bought my first SLR in 2002 and practiced on my son, who was just over a year at the time. I taught myself by practicing, reading, taking classes and failing. There is no greater schooling than practical experience and a little elbow grease. It also has given me the opportunity to take care of my family and help on our farm. Besides the practical work, I've taken classes in Grande Prairie, Peace River and attend conferences at least once a year.
I had my daughter in 2006 and took a couple of years off to be with her. I then bought my first DSLR and have been growing my business ever since. I opened up a studio in Girouxville in April 2011 and absolutely love having my own space! The past 9 years have been invaluable to me professionally and personally by learning new and different ways of expressing my passion. I would like to thank my husband, kids, friends and clients that have supported me over the years!! Stop in my studio for a coffee/tea if you're in the area!
Michelle
