Looking through the lens of a camera is an amazing way to see the world. Capturing the way light and shadows blend to highlight the landscape, the perfect smile on my boys' faces, or the sun rising over the mountains is how I love to see the world around me.

Luckily for me, I live in the perfect place for toting a camera and gathering some amazing shots-the Appalachian Mountains-and opportunities for fulfilling my passion for photography are endless.

Studying photography with my mother as she practiced her own photography skills led me to take formal photography training in college, which eventually turned into a position as a staff photographer for Kanuga Conferences.

While I've been lucky enough to have my photos used in print collateral and displayed in an art gallery, nothing beats the quiet reverence of nature as I walk these mountain paths, ever waiting for the perfect moment, the perfect still, the perfect opportunity to capture the Appalachians in a natural pose-hoping to preserve the way they are just in this moment-so others can appreciate the beauty I live with everyday.

Feel free to send me an email with any questions or comments. For more gift items such as note cards, journals and more, visit my CafeExpress Gift Shop. Also, take a look at my blog, A Creek in the Back, when you get the chance.

All photographs © 2008-2010 Karen Bryant.