Spotlight: Shelly Kraemer
May 11, 2011
If you took a snap shot of Shelly Kraemer’s life you would see a successful mother, wife and business woman. Kraemer earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts from Culver-Stockton in 1999 and is now a professional photographer and the owner of SK Photography. She lives with her husband, Drew, and two sons, Nathan, 7, and Matthew, 6, in Quincy, Ill. She says the most exciting aspect of her career is that it gives her the freedom be devoted to work and family. "I get to be at home with my family and be an artist that fuels my creative mind. I get to choose where my future is going, and how I am going to get there. There are no limits," explains Kraemer.
Since leaving C-SC, Shelly has taken numerous classes and workshops on photography and is a member of Professional Photographers of America, Professional Photographers of Northern Illinois and Associated Professional Photographers of Illinois. Kraemer is also active in the Quincy Chamber of Commerce and a volunteer for the Quincy Art Center Mentor Program. She has received a number of awards for her photography, and some of her images will be on display this summer in the Blessing Hospital maternity ward.
Kraemer credits Culver-Stockton College with helping her find success. "Culver-Stockton showed me that hard work and preparation pay off in the end. Culver-Stockton, along with my peers and instructors definitely made me a stronger woman, because they showed me the results of hard work and determination - even when others say you can't." But she says what she cherishes most from her time on "the Hill" is the people she met. "My fondest memory from C-SC? Herrick basement with all of my art friends! Great times – lots of late nights and last minute preparations. And of course – meeting my wonderful husband there at Culver-Stockton." Kraemer says she frequently tells others about all the many opportunities at C-SC. "Culver-Stockton has so much to offer. It is a small college with great people, and you receive a great education."
Though she stays busy with work and family, Kraemer still finds time teach to those interested in photography, and she continues to pursue other career and personal goals, "My goal is to raise strong, healthy boys who have love and compassion in their hearts. And my career goal is to Merit and have images in the Loan Collection at the International Print Competition Level." She also wants to work toward a Master Photographer and Craftsman degree through Professional Photographers of America.
