Visit the administrative offices at Albert Lea City Hall before the end of September and you’ll find a gallery of photography featuring the work of Rebecca Houg, owner of Rebecca Lynne Photography in rural Northwood, according to a press release.  The artist has nine prints on display, ranging from summer sunsets to frosty sunrises.

The Hartland native has worked as a professional photographer for 15 years,  but her love of photography started much earlier than that. 

“It was just something I was always drawn to,” she said. “I loved taking photos of animals around our farm as a kid and exhibiting them at the Freeborn County Fair in both the 4-H area and open class.

“Then it progressed into college classes, jobs at newspapers as a reporter, including the Albert Lea Tribune, while building a strong portfolio and a loyal clientele with my portrait business.” 

Included in the display is an artist statement, in which Houg explains all the images were captured using her iPhone 7, without any filters or editing.  Even though she enjoys using a professional grade camera in her portrait work, she said “The best camera is the one you have with you.” 

“I believe in educating others and encouraging them to enhance their photography skills by just learning some simple tricks,”  Houg said. 

Since April, she has been busy teaching a cell phone photography class at area libraries and businesses.  Since the fall is always a busy season for her business, she said the next class won’t be until this winter. 

When asked if it was hard to find just the right pictures to display, Houg said “It’s like asking me to choose my favorite child.  Each image is unique and has it’s own beauty.” 

To make the final cut, Houg said she asked herself if each image made her “feel something.” 

“I’m a seeker of light.  It’s usually the lighting in an image that captures my attention and elicits an emotional response.  That’s when I know I’ve captured something special.” 

More of her work can be found online at www.rebeccalynnephoto.com.