09/25/2026
It was an exciting evening to be surrounded by my community as I received the INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE award from the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce (PA)
This achievement represents a journey nearly three decades in the making. I have come a long way since my start as a newspaper correspondent, developing black-and-white film in the darkroom. I learned early that a single photo has the power to tell a story as it freezes a split second in history.
Being a solo entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart. Operating a professional photography business takes hard work to stay relevant and deliver consistent, professional images that capture the personality of my subjects in a creative manner to tell one’s story.
Over the years, I have been entrusted to capture many intimate moments: marriage proposals, the first look at a wedding, newborns, families together for the first time in decades, seniors, community celebrations, corporate milestones and even last photos of loved ones as their departure from this planet is quickly approaching. My online archive holds half a million captures that can never be replicated! This is why photos become increasingly valuable over time and are a priceless investment.
Achieving excellence is not a solo act; rather, it is a byproduct of the people who taught, challenged and believed in me along the way. I recognize those who have poured their knowledge, time, wisdom, and support into me, and a piece of each of them is reflected in this honor.
I am especially grateful to my Professional Photographers' Association of Pennsylvania, Inc. family who has supported and challenged me on this journey, and my community for their continued confidence in my work.
After nearly three decades, I’m still learning, still creating and still excited about what comes next. Perhaps that is what this award means most to me: excellence isn’t a destination…it is the decision I make to keep showing up, keep growing and keep giving my clients the very best.
Your trust in my craft is something I shall never take lightly. With my sincerest gratitude,
Della
