My passion for photography has frequently been referred to as an addiction. Much like the high of the marathon runner, my high comes from capturing that perfect moment with my camera. The instant an eagle strikes the water to catch a fish - talons spread wide, the bold colors of a sunset and then the delicate colors as it fades, the rushing water of a waterfall, a snowy owl's wings spread in mid-flight, or the look of determination on the face of a young girl as she trains for her first race: The perfect moments are infinite.

Sharing ones gifts with others is important to me. In my work at an elementary school, I've seen the positive impact my images have had on students. Used as incentives, images are treasures that can help motivate a struggling student. Lessons are enriched: a science lesson on weather paired with an image of an ice encrusted lighthouse, a creative writing class launched with an image to stir the imagination – the uses of images with students are endless.

Recently, I had the privilege to hear composer, Dr. Augusta Read Thomas, give the address for University of Illinois School Of Music Convocation. She said, "Composing isn't what I do, it is my condition." Her words resonated with me, photography isn't what I do it is "my condition".

Lisa Rundell