I started taking photographs with an SLR I borrowed from a friend for a vacation back in 1983. I really enjoyed making the images and set up a darkroom for developing black & white prints. Started shooting for the local weekly paper and had a few one man shows in some small town galleries.

Moved aboard a boat and to the Caribbean. Taught windsurfing in the British Virgin Islands for four years, during which time I had put away the cameras and darkroom for a while. When my wife threatened to throw them all away if I didn't start using them I got started again. (She can be quite a motivator!) That was followed by a stint of managing and owning restaurants which didn't leave a lot of time for photography. It was then I realized I wasn't a happy camper and remembered I had always enjoyed taking photos. You know what they say, "Do what you love and you will become a success."

In March of 1994 sold my interest in a restaurant and took the leap to start Bob Coates Photography. At the time I thought I knew something about photography.... Now that I've studied extensively since that time I realize that I didn't know very much at all. What I have figured out is that there is no way to know it all in the business of photography. It's a daily challenge just to keep up with all the new information that is released. I guess that's what I like. I'm always learning something new and doing something different! In this business the variety never ceases to amaze me. One day I'll be shooting jewelry in the studio, the next day getting images for a brochure, and my favorite, sharing the happiest day of a couples life.

All the different types of photography I do allow me to come up with interesting ways of photographing subjects. The techniques of different types of photography, when combined, lead to new ways of seeing. This keeps my wedding photography fresh, as there are always new influences for creativity.

I belong to a number of photographic associations. These help me stay current with new trends in the business... which leads to better photos and service for you. In order to become Certified in the PPA you must pass a written test and have 20 working photos judged for quality and high standards.

I'm current with digital technology. This allows me to put your photos up on a password protected Web site so your guests can enjoy and order photos. This is a great way to share your wedding day with those who were unable to attend.

I look forward to working with you!! Call today toll free 877-746-8646 to find how I may be of service to you. Book your date as soon as you can as popular dates get reserved from six months to a year in advance.

Here are some magazines and books that have published my photography and articles: Caribbean Travel and Life, Cruise Travel, Scouting, National Geographic, Porthole, New York Daily News Caribbeat, Realtor, SignCraft, Sailing World, Shutterbug, Professional Photographer, Rangefinder, Studio Photography and Design, Photo Electronic Imaging, Pro-Lighting Series Nightshots, Pro-Lighting Series Beauty Shots and more.

My first book is titled Photographer's Guide to Wedding Album Design and Sales. I interviewed 15 of the top wedding photographers in the country and I learned an immense amount of new information with regard to the wedding industry. It's geared toward wedding photographers but there are a tremendous number of ideas for wedding album design. If you would like to buy a copy send me an e-mail or you can find it on http://www.amazon.com or http://www.BarnesandNoble.com. Price $29.95 including shipping.

My second book came out in January 2004 and is titled Strategies and Techniques for Digital Photographers and is also available as outlined above.