I love the pictures that Barbara took of me at my black belt extravaganza earlier this year. It was my first time ever seeing myself as a martial artist in action and looking back at the photos [she took, I can relive the experience and bring back the feeling of one of the most amazing days of my life.

Barbara has a unique and special talent for capturing combat sports in a way that feels even more meaningful than the live experience. Her passion for martial arts is palpable in her photography, both in her skill to know exactly where to be at the right time and in her ability to notice the small moments in between the action. I've had the privilege of having her photograph both myself and my children at our dojo and would recommend her to anyone looking for a photographer who brings skill, knowledge and passion to her work.

Barbara behind the lens is a force to be reckoned with! She bridges the gap between who we think we are and who we aspire to be, and shows us sides of ourselves that leave us in awe. Whenever I look at the photos she has taken of me, I am truly amazed. I get to see myself in such a different light through her lens. It is an out-of-body experience and a coming-into-my-body experience at the same time. She makes me think maybe I am that strong, maybe even when I cry on the mats (and she has captured that), I am living the full reality of being a martial artist. I forget whether I won the match or lost it (I lost it, lol), but when I look back at the photos she took, I see a woman determined. I see a woman who stepped onto the mats despite her fears. And I see a woman who strives for growth. Barbara does all of that and so much more! If you've ever had the honor of being her subject, you'll know you'll come out debating whether that's truly you in those pictures. Almost like Alice through the looking glass, a bit of fantasy and a bit of reality, all of it reminding you of your own strength. And in all of this, I am most reminded of Barbara's strength and her own commitment to shine the light and the lens on everyone.