Photographic
Artist Kendal R. Miller is inspired by beauty, whether in the scenic outdoors she sees every day or in the people
she encounters.
"Each image I
shoot is as expression of my heart and soul, guided by God and
what he inspires me to see," she said.
And when her photographs move someone emotionally, the photographer considers
it
a blessing.
"Emotional" is the word that Kendal uses to describe her work, and believes it is an artist's vision to strike an emotional
cord in the viewer.
"As artists we hope that the viewer is moved in a positive way however, we recognize that each of
our images is unique. We realize that they may stimulate diverse reactions--that is the power of the artist's vision, the power of art."
When
photographing scenics and landscapes, Kendal incorporates the light and how it falls on a subject, or the way a shadow forms
around it. She looks for color, shapes, textures and reflections. Her gallery
image collection includes florals, boats, wildlife, sunsets, barns and historical landmarks from Florida to Indiana.
Working in color, black and white and hand colored images, she finds that keeping adaptable to each medium keeps her
vision both fresh and challenged.
Kendal became fascinated with photography while working as a reporter with her high school newspaper. She was
captivated with the black and white images that the staff photographer was taking and knew someday that would have to give
it a try.
Her first camera was an old Kodak 126 that someone found and gave to her when she was 17, a year before she acquired
a neurological condition called cervical dystonia. While currently incurable, the disorder causes involuntary movements of
the head. It is not life threatening, disabling or involves brain damage.
"I have been asked how I can do photography with this condition. I honestly
don't know the answer to that, but I'm so blessed that I can. Perhaps God chose
me to have this condition so I can show people that whatever your passion or goal is in life, don't let a little inconvenience
stop you from making it happen!"
After an accident in 2005, she overcame another obstacle when
she broke her elbow and shattered her right wrist. With surgery implanting two plates and nine screws and extensive
occupational therapy, she is photographing once again.
Kendal purchased her first 35mm camera in the early 1980s, which she still owns.
She mastered her craft by checking out material from the library and purchasing books on photography, then going out
and experimenting. When she started entering and winning photography contests,
that inspired her even more, although she admits there are both good and bad points to entering contests.
A working photographer since 1997, Kendal shoots scenic/landscape, photojournalism, outdoor portrait, and
event photography. She feels that working in all the aspects of photography not only keeps her skills well rounded, but also
allows her to enjoy creating under varied circumstances and in different environments.
Clients who have worked with the photographic artist
have found her soft-spoken and down-to-earth, with a shy sense of humor.
"Most subjects are uncomfortable having their portrait taken. I like to talk with them and get to know them better before I begin. I want them to get to know me better
as well, generating a mutual bond of sincerity. Our session should be relaxed and fun--this is their moment, their memory
that we are creating together.
While Kendal prefers shooting in a photojournalistic style, before each session she works with each client to
fullfill their special needs and desires. She feels that bringing a client's
vision to life and adding her own is what creates a successful portrait session.
"It is the artist's job to connect with a subject to bring out their heart and soul
in every image," said Kendal. "My job is to bond with a client and capture an
image that reflects their true spirit and love of life."
Originally from Pittsburgh, Kendal lived in Panama City, Florida for 21 years
before moving to IN. She now resides with her husband Lenny and dog Moose in a farmhouse in Dillsboro, IN.
Available by appointment, Kendal can be contacted through this website or
by calling 812.667.4835.
Portions of this bio were adapted from
published press articles written about the Artist. All
text and photographs copyrighted. All rights reserved.