My name is Miles Boyer, and I live in the wonderful mid-western town of Springfield, MO. I’m 29 years old and still feel like a newcomer to photography. My wife, Kate, has been very supportive of my hobby, and my 15 month old daughter, Camille, has provided plenty of photo opportunities. I manage a small office for a trade association, so photography gives me a much needed release for my creativity.

Like many others, I haven’t had any formal training in photography. I dabbled in the darkroom for my high school yearbook, but I never had any real guidance. I’ve relied on books, the internet, photography forums, and trial & error for my endless search for knowledge. I’m continually amazed by the amount of information available online, and I’m always thankful that other photographers are so willing to share their wisdom.

I’ve really only had a serious interest in photography since 2004 (when digital SLRs became relatively affordable). I had used film and digital point-and-shoot cameras previously, but their limitations inhibited my need to experiment. My first “real” camera, the Nikon D70, allowed me the freedom to explore and use the instant feedback to learn from my mistakes. I was no longer limited by my film budget or lack of manual controls. I was hooked. I started photographing anything and everything.

After starting with the Nikon D70, I added the D200 to my camera bag. I have an assortment of Nikon lenses including: 70-200mm F2.8 VR, 18-70mm, 60mm F2.8 Micro, 50mm F1.8, and a 70-300mm. I also use a Sigma 10-20mm and 30mm F1.4. I use two SB-800 flashes, and I have remote releases for both cameras. This makes for a heavy bag, but I’m sure I could make room for the newly released 24-70 F2.8 and/or a D3.

Because of my love of the outdoors, I’ve always dreamed of being a landscape or wildlife photographer. Unfortunately, I haven’t had many opportunities to fulfill this dream. Instead, I tend to focus on much smaller wildlife and landscapes using my macro lens. I could spend hours crawling around the backyard photographing bugs, plants, rocks, and other natural specimens.

I enjoy taking close-ups of man-made objects as well. I often find myself trying to create interesting compositions in everyday objects. I’m always looking for interesting textures, shapes, and colors in household items. Sometimes, these mundane objects hold fascinating photographic opportunities.

I try not to limit myself to one subject or type of photography. I also enjoy interacting with people while shooting weddings and portraits. I love capturing emotions and expressions using a more candid approach.

Before I ever picked up a camera, the beautiful photographs in National Geographic always fascinated me. I can remember flipping through the pages, admiring the photos, and dreaming of someday taking photos worthy of the magazine. When other little boys fantasized about being a fireman or policeman, I wanted to grow up to be a photographer.

I have a hard time narrowing down one photographer as more of an influence than others. If I had to name just one, I would probably say Ansel Adams. Even though I rarely have the opportunity to take the beautiful landscape photos he is famous for, his work has always inspired me. I’m most impressed that he created most of his photos using bulky equipment and a very time consuming process of exposing, developing, and manipulating his images in the darkroom.

I opened my SmugMug account shortly after getting my first real camera in 2004. I originally wanted a service that would make sharing photos with friends and family as easy as possible. After much research, SmugMug fit my needs best, and it was the most user friendly for family, friends, and soon-to-be clients.

I quickly realized that my window to the world also gave me the opportunity to show off my work and possibly fund my expensive hobby. My pro account allows me to tailor my site to fit my own needs. I can set my own pricing, allow or block certain features, and create the look that I want. SmugMug handles all the order fulfillment and customer service, giving me more time to go out and shoot.

I also appreciate the feedback and encouragement I receive from other photographers, friends, and family in the SmugMug community. This feedback has inspired me to challenge myself to be more creative in my photography. One of my creative challenges has been ongoing for nearly 3 years now. I just recently surpassed 1,000 days in a row of taking and posting a new photo every single day. The feedback I receive from others has encouraged me to photograph something new every day.

For me, taking photos is only half of the photographic process. Showing them off to others is the other half. SmugMug makes exhibiting my photos easy and fun. Because of this, photography has become a more rewarding experience and has encouraged me to keep shooting.

Whether photography is a career or hobby, you need to find a way to keep it fun. If you find yourself getting bored, find a challenge to keep it interesting. Experiment. Shoot something new and different that is out of your comfort zone. Shooting new things can be a rewarding learning experience.