"When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, 'I used everything you gave me.' " - Erma Bombeck
I believe God created me to be a photographer. I create photographic images using the talent I have been given which comes from deep in my spirit.
From the time my parents handed me my first instamatic film camera as a child, I knew photography was something that was a part of who I am. I began taking pictures of family, friends, and nature, anything I could set my eyes on… and never looked back.
While I wandered down a different career path for awhile, I am very thankful that God eventually brought me full-circle and has allowed me to develop a successful business out of my true passion; photography.
I am often asked how I "learned" photography and who has influenced me artistically. Photography, as with any art and passion, is not something that a person ever has a complete grasp on. Any artist would agree that growing in an art is an endless journey. (This is doubly true for being an Entrepreneur!) Every day we learn something new that becomes a part of who we are and helps us grow. I actually find the challenge of staying on top of changes in the industry fun!
I have had a few mentors along the way that have had a profound effect on me. Being a part of the Hallmark Cards Photography Explorer Post through the Boy Scouts as a teen, as well as studying photography under the late John Gutowski at the University of Missouri – Kansas City, were both major influences on my early photographic development. Currently I find inspiration from many of my unbelievably talented peers in the photography field. Technology allows us to interact and learn from each other even though we may be 1,000s of miles apart.
Every day is a gift from God. I believe each of us is blessed to be able to use the talents He has given us to contribute to the lives of others. I feel we each have a responsibility to give back to our community and embrace and encourage others around us. Driven by this belief, I started Giving Back Through The Lens to help bring dignity and self worth to those in need. Creative Photographic also supports other charitable organizations and movements on an ongoing basis. I believe we are helping in our own small way. I encourage everyone to look deep inside and see what talents you may have that are just waiting to burst forth.
Every client of ours wins a special place in my heart. I have met so many wonderful people through Creative Photographic. There is no place I would rather be than right here. I look forward to the new clients who will become friends and the exciting and creative projects they will bring our way.
Nathan Choate
Lead Photographer/Owner
Creative Photographic
