From Special Forces to Fine Art: My Photography Journey

Hello and welcome!

If you're reading this, you're here at the start of something new and incredibly exciting for me — and honestly, a little bit nerve-wracking. After spending 25 years navigating a world of disciplined action and calculated risks, I've traded my mission gear for a camera and embarked on a different kind of operation.

For a long time, my photography was a private pursuit — a way to see the world with a fresh perspective, away from the demanding life I led. It was just for me. My team was everything, and the focus was always on "we," "us," and the success of the mission as a whole. Now, this new mission is different. It’s a solo operation, and to be honest, it’s a little uncomfortable. Stepping into the light, using words like "I" and "mine," and sharing a part of myself that feels so personal is a new kind of vulnerable for me.

But over the years, a few trusted friends and family members saw my work and, with their consistent encouragement and candid feedback, they challenged me to share it with the world. Their belief in my photography gave me the courage to take this leap. To each of you, thank you. You know who you are.

This website is a direct result of that encouragement. It’s my way of sharing the quiet moments and hidden stories I've been fortunate enough to capture in St. Augustine and beyond. As a veteran photographer, I've found a new focus in the timeless landscapes, intricate street scenes, and untamed wildlife that fill my lens.

A New Mission: Sharing My Work

I’m just as excited as I am a little bit terrified to put my fine art prints out there for everyone to see. My goal is to create a true online photography gallery that reflects my disciplined approach to observation and my passion for storytelling. This website is a testament to the idea that a picture can be more than just an image — it can be a conversation.

To anyone who has already become a customer, thank you. Your support means more than you know. And to anyone who simply browses or offers constructive feedback, your input is incredibly valuable. My previous life taught me the importance of continuous improvement, and that’s a mission I’ll always be on.

So, please, take a look around. I hope you find a piece that speaks to you. I'm grateful to have you here at the beginning of this journey.

Sincerely,

Stephen Cook