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Capturing Beauty in Nature

Centerville resident Jim Crotty’s love for the natural world and photography dates back to childhood.

Early influences fueled Centerville resident Jim Crotty’s passion for photography. He was raised in a scenic Kettering neighborhood and gravitated toward his mother’s love for the outdoors, art and music. Jim was also befriended by an amateur photographer in a neighborhood grocery store. His friend mentored him and introduced Jim to a nature photography club and classes at the Dayton Museum of Natural History, now known as Boonshoft Museum of Discovery.  

His interest in astronomy intrigued Jim, too.

“I have always loved nature and exploring the night sky,” he shares. “When I joined the group for a weekend outing to Hocking Hills State Park, it really hit me – I loved it. I connected with the scenic frozen waterfalls, cliffs and forest.”

His father purchased him a Pentax XRL camera and Jim used funds he made mowing yards and a newspaper route to invest in darkroom equipment and materials. Today, he has parlayed his childhood experiences into an award-winning photography career as owner of Picture Ohio LLC. His work has been published in USA Today, Smithsonian, National Wildlife, Nature’s Best and Ohio Magazine.

Jim still enjoys journeys to Hocking Hills, but also frequents scenic parks in the area. He says Sugar Creek and Bill Yeck Park are personal favorites.

“I know the trails well. The rolling meadows are full of native Ohio plants and wildflowers,” he says. “Sunrise and sunset are my favorite times to take photos. There is more drama in the sky and landscape.”

Jim’s passion has transitioned into other subjects. He also produces images for architecture, commercial property, modeling agencies, graduation portraits and outdoor weddings. Additionally, the University of Dayton alumnus teaches communications courses at his alma mater and provides private online and in-person photography workshops while pursuing a doctorate at Franklin University.

“I encourage my students to capture beauty most people take for granted. You must take the time to process it. There is so much to explore right here in our backyard.”

Picture Ohio LLC

7383 Cades Cove #4889, Centerville

937.477.9324 | Photography-By-Jim-Crotty.Business.Site