photography by map
michael a podeszwa
Blue ribbon award recipient from the 2005 Mid-Eastern states photograph competition.
My interest in photography began when my Grandma on Christmas day, in 1974 gifted a Kodak Instamatic camera. I went crazy experimenting with my new toy and photographing everything in sight. Thomas, my father, encouraged my interests and provided film and flash cubes.
In the beginning I photographed scenic natural pictures and friends for my own use as wall decorations. Gradually I became known for my portrait photography because of my outgoing nature and instant rapport with every type of personality. My ability to find the best and most unique candid and posed shots has earned me respect both inside and outside the professional photographic community. The combination of several hundred hours of self study including both indoor and outdoor lighting techniques, styles of shooting and creative photographic procedures together with having attended numerous professional photographic seminars has greatly improved and influenced my approach to photography. Many years of hands-on experience with a diverse range of style, lighting, prop, and shot preferences have fine-tuned my talent both as a photographer and as a professional.
Professional associations have been a tremendous resource and sounding board for my photography questions, and the freedom to utilize their particular combination of experience and expertise has been an invaluable asset as I become more involved with professional portraiture. Since my professional status, I have been contracted for weddings, parties, corporate functions, and social gatherings. In the summer of 2002 I entered the digital age of photography, capturing images using High resolution SLR cameras.
I have a particular affinity for black and white portraiture, and when time permits I experiment with new lighting and unorthodox methods for capturing real-life photographs. Creativity and making a bold statement are cornerstones of my work.
My goal as a professional photographer is to provide beautiful and unique images while engaged in a creative, communicative, proactive and productive environment. My client is encouraged to convey ideas, preferences, and specific goals at all times. I strive to uphold the highest degree of professionalism and business ethics, while maintaining my own personal level of creativity and style. Customer satisfaction, including meeting and exceeding each individual clients’ needs and expectations are paramount to mutual success.