Beaches Photography Club

Many BPC Members pursue artistic endeavors beyond photography, have received special honors, or have a great story.

We proudly recognize and showcase these members through our Member Spotlight.

NANCY FLYNN

In the dictionary next to the phrase "energizer bunny" is a picture of Nancy Flynn, this month's Member Spotlight. Not one to brag about herself, this is the opportunity for BPC to do that for her.

She is well known for her enthusiasm, organizational skills and her photography expertise within the BPC as well as the other organizations to which she belongs and contributes. As our current Outings Chairperson, she amazes us with her choices of places to see and photograph. New members often cite one of the reasons for joining BPC is because of our fantastic outings.

Nancy is an important contributor to our Guidance Committee. She is highly respected for her art, having won numerous awards for her work. She is fun and funny and so willing to share her expertise with others. It's hard to not be enthusiastic when she is in the room!

Here is Nancy' story:

"Born a military brat, my family relocated every two years. Growing up living in six different states, I wanted to remember our travels, where we lived, and how we got there. For this, I developed an interest in photography.

My family finally set down roots in Atlantic Beach, Florida. I thought I was in heaven! Living only two blocks from the ocean didn't hurt. I went to Fletcher High School where I was able to make friendships that have lasted more than 50 years.

After high school I studied cosmetology to become a hairstylist. Hair styling was my passion, along with makeup and fashion. I absolutely loved my profession for 40 years, and for 15 of those years had my own salon.

In 1997, I took a photography class that reignited my love for photography, starting a new journey for me. I wanted to learn everything about photography, so I joined local camera clubs and the PPA (Professional Photography Association). PPA gave me the tools and legal support on how to build a business, along with an excellent education, and particularly meeting some skilled photographers.

While still working as a hairstylist, I became friends with a wedding photographer and was his second shooter for several years which inspired me to start my own business.

I was drawn to portraiture photography, which led me to photographing weddings, engagements, maternity, and families for the last 15 years.

Whether photographing on the beach, in my studio, or anywhere in between, I have loved every minute of this adventure. Photography brings me such creative joy and introduces me to new hobbies.

For those that are unaware, I have a fascination with butterflies.

Raising and releasing monarch butterflies gave me the idea to write a children's book about the adventures of a crippled wing Monarch, "Curly the Amazing Butterfly."

I like to think I'm changing the world, one butterfly at a time.

I'm currently studying B/W photography, venturing into infrared using filters to help me see and create high contrast B/W images. My current camera of choice is a Fujifilm XT-5 which gave me the passion on how to create digital film simulations. I still love the look of film.

Currently, I am the Outings Chairman for BPC and enjoy scheduling outings and workshops where we can learn and share ideas to help develop our photography skills.

As I continue my journey of learning and exploring this amazing creative tool, I know my next adventure is right around the corner."

Please ask before you use: All Photographs and rights relating to them, including copyright and ownership, remain the sole and exclusive property of the Photographer. Photographs may only be used with the express written consent of the owner.Beaches Photography Club - Jacksonville Beach Florida Contact: Beachesphotographyclub@gmail.com