Poplar Point Studio is a premier Photography and Landscape Design studio located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. It was established in 2008 and continues to grow.
I am a recent graduate in the Landscape Architecture program at Cornell University. Starting this company was a way to pursue some of my passions outside of the classroom in a more professional setting. I have always enjoyed spending time in the world around me and photography was a natural way for me to capture those experiences. I have taken a series of photographs of Ithaca Gun Factory and the construction of Bailey Plaza at Cornell University. These photo studies have led to a greater understanding of the physical and natural landscape as well as pushed me creatively. Both projects led to multiple exhibits and photo books, as well as inspired a few other photo studies that I continue to work on.
As for the landscape design component I have found that my journey has led me to so many landscape nurseries and opportunities that it was a natural transition for me to apply my education and work experience in the natural environment.
With my design background I also have added a graphic/web design component to the business as well. I have done some logo/branding work as well as some marketing materials like brochures, mailers, fliers and components for trade show booths. The website design work was inspired by my ‘techie’ family and has grown from friends and family needing help with their own sites.
I also worked for a short while in the Catskills at a YMCA and Farm Camp and realized that I have an affinity for teaching and I try to continue to lead garden workshops when I have time.
I love working with and around other people (even though the quiet time with my camera or the plants is often a needed reprieve!). I enjoy solving problems, whether that is in how to fix or build something, or just how to present something in a more pleasing way. I have found that those basic skills work in a variety of settings and industries, and have been constantly challenged by the question, “what do I want to be when I grow up?”
My work has been largely seasonal based up to this point – landscaping in the summer around my academic schedule, and photography/graphic work in the winter months to keep busy on the side. Now that I have graduated I am building out both sides of the business a bit more, and we’ll see where this next year takes me.
Click to download my resume >> ELM_resume_11.10.11
