Monmouth County Photographer Captures Stunning Images

Joe Valencia is an amateur photographer who has spent more than 40 years working on his craft. To him, photography isn't a hobby it's love.

Valencia says if you bring up the topic of photography in a conversation you better get comfortable because he loves to talk about it almost as much as he loves doing it.

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Joe says that he's had a number of photographers influence his work; Ansel Adams and Annie Leibovitz are but two. Valencia says just about anyone could be considered an "influence", if only subconsciously. Seldom does he just "look" at a photograph. He tends to study them and thus learn.

I first met Joe at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's annual walk at Bar A in Lake Como. He was volunteering his time taking pictures at the event. After speaking with him briefly, I came to realize that beyond being an incredible photographer, he's a good man.

The proof is on Joe's website. Under a section titled "Words To Live By," he references quotes that absolutely ring true.

"It doesn't cost anything to be kind to someone."
"From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life." - Arthur Ashe

When Joe isn't working as a programmer or out shooting, he likes to teach others about photography's joys, whether in-person or by writing instructional blog posts.

If you or someone you know is interested in photography, I encourage you to reach out to Joe Valencia.