MY STORY

From a very young age, I chose a path in art that was unencumbered by the rules others placed upon it.  Instead, I’ve done what felt right and natural to me, giving credit to the small details in the world so many passed by without noticing.  I've dabbled in a profusion of mediums since I was a little girl and was blessed to begin exhibiting my work internationally when I was 14. I've been honored to exhibit beside professional artists whom I greatly respect and admire, meeting amazing painters, fiber artists, sculptors, writers, and photographers, among others, across the nation. I was featured in an international magazine in 2009 and have since shared my story 'The Progression of a Young Artist' with others.



I began photographing on my parents' Minolta film camera as a young child.  Today, I now realize this is a rare experience for someone of my generation.  I believe it shaped me as an artist though, unlike any other tool or medium could have.  Lighting, emotions, ideas, and artistic styles pass by quickly, sometimes existing for only a moment.  I had to be prepared to quickly assess my surroundings, distinguishing normal snapshots from the unique seconds when the world wasn't like it was the rest of the time.  These raw ideas on film could not be post-processed as so many photographers depend upon today.



At 13, I made the switch to a Canon DSLR. I then began the huge learning curve of understanding settings, adjustments, and post-processing! It’s all been very enjoyable though, and I love to share with others what knowledge I’ve worked to earn. Digital has so many great possibilities that film does not lend itself to and I thoroughly enjoy filling an entire compact flash card on an outing! I’ve received several honors and awards at various competition levels and am a member of the Photographic Society of America, as well as the North Central Camera Club Council.



Toni Chanelle Paisley, Journalist of Light . . . was born from my passion for photography.  As a photographer, my sole journey is to document the world one photograph at a time.  My work can be found in private collections across North America, Australia, and Europe, as well as in local galleries.  I continually strive to have unique work, and hope to share the results with you sometime. ​

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I currently just graduated and am looking forward to a life-long journey in the arts.  I can be best described as someone who truly loves every aspect of life from reading quote compendiums to keeping a journal with a pen that writes just right . . . though most just know me as a photographer, harpist, writer, and artist!​