by Heather Stuyverson

Today’s “Art Talk” features Colleen Duffley, an Panhandle-based professional photographer who has been photographing people, places, and things for more than 28 years. Colleen’s creative and vibrant spirit has brought artistic inspiration to Florida and beyond.

Colleen Duffley knows a lot about success in today’s arts marketplace.

Colleen Duffley (image submitted)

Her professional photography business and arts organization are both known for bringing artistic opportunity and vision to scenic 30A in the Florida Panhandle. “In order be a successful artist in this world you have to be a great business person as well,” Colleen told me in an email interview late last year. “You have to be well spoken to get your message across and to grow the concepts and ideas that you, as an artist, believe in.”

Colleen’s concepts, ideas and messages are indeed successful. With Colleen Duffley Productions, her professional photography business, she shoots, produces, directs, and designs advertising concepts. She has made a name for herself in the field of photography, with clients including Neiman Marcus, Traditional Home magazine and Carnival Cruise Lines.  Colleen says photography has given her the opportunity to meet the most amazing people and see the most incredible places.  She says, “I have often truly pinched myself, thinking, ‘I’m getting paid to do this?’”

photograph by Colleen Duffley (submitted by the artist)

In addition to her photography business, Colleen also owns and operates Studio b. Studio b. brings together the best of the best in the fields of photography, art, design, literature, food, and wine by hosting seminars, classes, and lectures.

Workshop at Studio b. (submitted by Colleen Duffley)

Studio b. also serves as an art gallery throughout the year and is currently featuring an exhibit entitled “Light Impressions: A Celebration of iPhone® Photography.” The exhibit features the curated work of 40 iPhoneographers from around the world, with their work showcased on 40 iPad 2® units.  Colleen says this is the first iPhone® photography exhibit of its kind, and there are plans to tour the exhibit internationally.

Light Impressions at Studio b. (submitted by Colleen Duffley)

At the end of the day, Colleen says her business ventures have helped her become a focused, resilient and disciplined person. Colleen summed it all up, saying that her work in the arts is truly a part of her. “Working hard and being creative defines who I am as an individual.”