From an early age, I found myself captivated by art. Inspired by my great-grandfather, William Rickert, whose commercial art blended realism and illustration, and my great uncle, Paul Rickert, known for his expressive watercolors of urban and coastal landscapes, I developed my own passion for painting and photography. At the age of 11, I received my first camera, and from that moment, my passion for photography only deepened. Alongside this creative path, I have always had a deep love for the outdoors. Growing up, I spent countless hours exploring nature, especially during the years I lived in the Pennsylvania mountains, roaming our 20-acre property. This blend of art and nature has profoundly shaped my creative vision and continues to inspire me every day.