"Bleeding Gold" Sneak-Peek / by Alarick McGlory

Photographer Feature Sneak-Peek from December Issue:

Melissa Cosper

By: Sky Braun

“My introduction into photography was mostly by accident. It started as a way to raise money to go on a mission trip to Africa and blossomed. Once there, I realized the need for perspective in America. America is the land of excess; people always wanting more and never happy with what they already have. While in Ghana, I experienced a life with the bare necessities and witnessed people who were genuinely happy, even though they had very little. I came away from that experience wanting to keep that perspective as much as possible.

I have a photo that I took while there that has been turned into a painting that hangs in my living room. It hangs there to remind me to be grateful for the little things, and to appreciate all the bonuses that life affords as an American citizen. At first glance, you might only see the dirt road and dilapidated buildings, but all I see is the beauty of the bold red dress and the contrast of the blue wall behind the little girl. It inspired me to continue to create and capture the beauty of life in all aspects.

What began as a hobby quickly became my passion. I began working as a professional photographer, which has since given me opportunities to travel the world, work with celebrities, and capture some of life’s most meaningful moments for many people.”