My Story

    People ask me all the time what led me to what I do - my answer, The Third Street Deli! That's right... I became a photographer slinging sandwiches at a local deli!  When we moved here from the San Francisco Bay area I came as a display artist for Macy's West Coast and quickly learned there is no such job here in the Mid Ohio Valley, so having to earn a living, I started working at the deli.  While there, I did what any display artist does... I started displaying everything - dessert case, art on the walls, gourmet food for sale.  You name it... I gave it flair and style!  This quickly got the attention of Daryl Culp Photography, about three doors up the street.  Daryl could not help but notice the changes in his favorite lunch spot and asked my bosses about who was responsible - this chance encounter changed my life!  He offered me a job - I thought to do make-up and set design, but instead he handed me a camera.  I thought this was a mistake!  I did not ever even think about photography as a job.  If anything, I wanted to make Muppets for Jim Henson.  I had no idea what to do with this camera!  Daryl sat me down and explained to me that I have a natural photographic eye and he wanted the opportunity to develop it.  I thought, Well it beats holding this tray of sandwiches - I'll give it a whirl!  I have been a “Photography-Junkie” ever since!  It has been a long journey of discovery, not without its share of blood, sweat, and tears as they say.  Daryl Culp was the Gordan Ramsey of photography.  He pushed me like you would not believe!  I went home in tears more times than I can count.  His level of perfection was so high, I never thought I or my work had any value.  This was a brutal way of being taught - but effective!  I still to this day hear his voice in my head when shooting.  He gave me such a gift in my ability to self-critique and accepting criticism of my work, two key ingredients for growth.  I have since spent a lot of years developing who I am as a Photographer, not just emulating other photographers' work as I did in the beginning, but really having my own style - learning to trust what I see - remembering that I am a true artist.  That's what Daryl saw in me and now, more importantly, it is finally what I see in myself.  It has taken me 10 years of hard work but over the last 2 years my work has really come together.  I have earned my place in this industry.  My images are solid and I am finally proud to say, "Yes, I am a professional and really believe it in my heart".  I love what I do.  I am driven to show the beauty and the simpler side of our lives as Americans.  Mostly, I'm just grateful.  I am grateful for the opportunities I have been afforded, grateful for the ever growing clientel I'm lucky enough to work with, but mostly grateful to God for my talent and I know without faith I would not be where I am today. 

    Call 740-336-1888 for more information.   

4834 Tick Ridge Road, Vincent, OH  45784 

Copyright 2008-10, Kristie M. Detlor