With the countdown to Miss Oklahoma almost over, I want to share a story of appreciation. I began photographing local and state level youth pageants back in 2010. After about three years of changes, I began to see the consistent results I wanted every time out. In 2014, I looked into transitioning to the miss and teen pageant arena, especially covering Miss Oklahoma events. Even with my knowledge and years of experience, I still doubted my abilities to properly photograph these events. That all changed after I attended the Wonderland Anniversary party for Liberte on June 11, 2014. I arrived at the party and noticed a young lady wearing a crown with people crowding around her. I found out that the young lady was Alex Eppler, who had been crowned Miss Oklahoma 2014 only four days prior. I strayed away from the crowd and floated around the store for a while only to have Alex come right over and speak to me. In our five minute conversation, I told Alex about my pageant coverage experience and my doubts about transitioning to miss-teen pageants. She assured me that I could do it. Those words of wisdom became the unexpected support that I needed to expand my work as a pageant photographer. Thanks Alex for the support, and I know that you'll excel in your future endeavors. 

Photo by Shevaun Williams and Associates via Facebook

Alex and IAlex and I after volunteering with the American Red Cross at the 20th Anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing.