About us

Blue Iris Arts was created back in 2006 by Kevin Walters.
 
The number one question that I get asked is… “So where did the name come from?”
It's a good question but it does not have an elaborate answer. I have a scientific background in Biology and there are many similarities between the eye and a camera. The fundamental way the eye operates can be compared to the modern digital SLR camera by means of lenses and sensors. Understanding those similarities, along with observing and capturing great emotions, make for great photography.

 

The Photographers:

 

  • Kevin Walters

I would have to describe my photography education as self taught. Almost everything I have learned about photography has been from looking at pictures and reading photographic journals and then trying to re-create the images that I felt were inspiring and provoking. It is part of my nature to be analytical and methodical in order to succeed. 

After aspiring for a few years, I finally broke out in the photography scene as a Wedding and Portrait photographer. I enjoy shooting in a variety of different styles. However, I would have to say I enjoy the ‘photojournalism’ style the best. When I take pictures in the photojournalism style, I feel like I get to tell your story… And it feels real, life-like, and emotional.

What I enjoy about photography is that it allows me to see the world from different angles. I am constantly bending, twisting, stooping, and reaching to find the perfect angle for a shot. It's not uncommon for me to lay on the ground once or twice during the course of a photo shoot session or wedding. 

 

 

  • Michelle Walters

I have grown to love wedding photography so much since our wedding in 2007. I primarily work side by side with my husband on most of our weddings but occasionally I enjoy shooting by myself. My specialities in photography are in the details. I enjoy macro photography and have been known for borrowing wedding rings and finding intricate and meaningful ways of photographing them (don't worry, they always get returned!).

When I'm not shooting those detail shots, I also enjoy providing art direction to my husband and posing people for their formal photos. This can prove to be difficult at times because we like to have our formal pictures look relaxed and fun instead of rigid and stale.

Outside of the photography world, I am also involved with a local Greyhound rescue group called Wine Country Greyhound Adoption. I am currently serving as a board member and have coordinated the rescue of over 50 greyhounds. I have also recently completed my California State Teaching Credential and am teaching middle school science in Sonoma.

 

 

  • Max

I have been into photography since 2007 after being told by numerous friends, family, and coworkers that I  had a natural talent. My passion for motorcycles drew me quickly into track photography, and in between races is where I discovered my ability to capture the candid moments.

I enjoy capturing people in their natural state, that is to say when they are unaware of my actions. When people are unaware, they are less likely to be thinking of their smile, hair, or demeanor. During this time, people's real emotions and expressions come out and I am right there waiting. My favorite wedding photos are those that are the spontaneous and would otherwise have been missed.

 

 

 

  • April

I hold a degree in photojournalism from San Francisco State University where I learned the artistic style in composition, the technical beauty in lighting, and the patience and foresight to capture the perfect shot.  My current photography works explore real world events and portraiture. 

I have been a published contributor to numerous publications including the Golden Gate [X]Press and the Modesto Bee.  The real thrill for me is not only practicing my craft/love of photography, it's telling a story.  Your story.  Capturing the laughs, tears, joy, and unexpected surprises of weddings is not the reason I do what I do, it's why I became who I am - a photographer.

 

 

  • Scott

After developing my first black and white photo in my high school photo class, I knew I was hooked.  Since then I have enjoyed taking pictures of anything and everything, including weddings.

I started out by taking pictures at high school swim meets that I participated in.  I continued to do so throughout college as a collegiate swimmer.  Naturally, I moved towards a photojournalistic approach to taking pictures. 

As a photographer, I try to take natural and candid pictures that capture the feel of the wedding.  Overly posed pictures always loose the true emotion and don’t convey how fun the event really was.