A few weeks ago I stepped down from working as Darren Hull's assistant. It was a hard decision, but I know it was the right one. I want to pursue my own photography whole heartedly and don't believe it would be fair to do two different photo gigs at once. I'm incredibly excited for this new beginning and the journey I will begin taking as a somewhat new (at least to the business side of things) photographer. I'll talk much more about this journey later but first, I want to thank Darren Hull.

I began working with Darren last March 2010 after I left Club Penguin. It felt like one of those "once in a lifetime" amazing opportunities, and I tell you, it was nothing else but that. My job with Darren consisted of a variety of different things, from second shooting to helping with behind the scenes or administrative work. I enjoyed every moment of it and wouldn't replace this past year I've spent with Darren and his wifeNatel for anything.

Darren taught me a lot. He taught me so much more about photography than just clicking a shutter button – the business, the interaction with clients, the setup and take down, lights, equipment, posing people, getting people comfortable and all the preparation involved in getting a shoot ready. I don't know anyone who knows the photo game better than Darren and have huge respect for someone as talented and perseverant as he is. If any of you ever have the opportunity to assist another photographer, don't pass it up. You'll learn more than you do anywhere else when it's hands on experience.

There are so many highlights from the last year. There are so many adventures I was able to partake on that I wouldn't have been able to experience had it not been for working for Darren. I am so thankful for all of these.

If you aren't already familiar with Darren's work, please check out his website. While he specializes in people photography, there isn't an area of photography he doesn't succeed in. If you want your photos to be guaranteed-kick-ass, Dahul is the photographer for you.