Yes, I'm leaving, and no, I'm not going anywhere.

As much fun as I have been having at the Tribune for nearly three years, it is now time to leave the security of the regular paycheck and make these cameras pay for themselves.

When I started working at the newspaper, I hoped that I would be able to spend time shooting portraits, weddings and freelance editorial assignments, but that time never materialized. With the addition of Joshua to our family last year, time became even more of a valuable resource, so now it is time to shake things up a bit.

Beginning August 1, I will be simply a freelance photographer, writer, creative person and (yikes) teacher. For the people who I have turned away over the years, I hope that you will think of me and give me another opportunity when the need for photos arises.

I have also had the chance to meet a great group of fellow photographers in the area. Please know that I am available to assist and provide additional coverage for your shoots and add value to what you offer clients.

I have a number of ideas for photo events, collaborations with other photographers and artists, and e-book ideas, as well as mini-workshops that I hope to work on, so the future looks very exciting (if scary) for the Johnson household.

Over the next few weeks, you will see a few changes around here.

This blog will sprout advertising and will become a more 'newsy' blog about what is happening in photography and visually in our area.

I have created a new Facebook page for the photo biz, which will be populated with sample galleries and such. Come give it a LIKE and be an early adopter!

A new blog (to be named later) will become home to updates on current work and things related to my own photo career.

And finally... I will still be around shooting assignments for Michael at the Tribune and whoever else will hire me. We have some great projects going on that I have enjoyed immensely and am glad to be a part of.

I owe a great deal of appreciation to Michael G. and all of my coworkers who have put up with me on a daily basis. It has been a great experience and has certainly made me a better photographer.

Join me on the ride, and please let me know how I can be helpful in creating images that will tell your story for generations to come.