I grew up in the rural high plains near the Pawnee National Grasslands in Colorado. Yes, very rural. My mom worked at a portrait studio, and my dad, amongst many things, was a professional leather artist, teacher, and archer. I lived in a very creative and inspiring atmosphere. Growing up in a small town allowed me to raise chickens, rabbits, and pheasants, alongside many pets, including toads, tarantulas, possums, and a raccoon. My passion for food and agriculture runs deep. I appreciate where our food comes from, and I think that has played an important role in my love of food and beverage photography. Today, I live in Golden in a beautiful environmentally friendly ranch home. Working with light, texture, color, form, and shape is so amazing to me. The “art of seeing” is a never-ending journey through life. When you add food and beverage to this fabulous journey, you simply can’t go wrong.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career/accomplishments. What do you love most about what you do?
I am the owner of Souders Studios. I have a BFA with Honors from the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California. I have extensively studied color theory and color psychology. I won best beverage photographer in the world three times in a row at the World Food Media Awards in South Australia and have been recognized with the prestigious Lifetime Member Award from the American Society of Media Photographer–a significant milestone in my 34-year membership. I started my career at Coors Brewing Co. in Golden, then went on to work for the Integer Group Advertising Agency, and then on to my own businesses. I am the author of two books. I am the Vice Chair of the Arts and Culture Commission in Golden. I am on the Board at Foothills Art Center and the Advisory Board for Colorado Mountain College and Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants or breweries in our community?
Abejas is amazing. I like Nosu Ramen. Also like Blue Pan Pizza, Woody’s Pizza and Golden City Brewing (GCB).
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in Golden for 11 years and worked in Golden, including owning two businesses, for 38 years.
Q: What is one of your favorite hiking or biking trails?
I love walking along Clear Creek. My favorite park to hike around is Ulysses Park–great views and lots of activity.
Q: What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
Smile, relax, breathe and enjoy life. I was a workaholic for awhile.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Foss Drug and Myer Hardware were two of my now gone favorites.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
I love the people. I like the arts. I love many of the not for profits. It is an expensive but beautiful place to live.
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I love old cars, fishing, traveling, teaching, and now I am into handholding masks in ceramics.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
I surround myself with good people, and they are my inspiration. Life is too short for negativity.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Home is where my heart is. Home is family and friends. Home is hope and happiness.
