"Born in Germany, my family immigrated to the US when I was 7. I grew up in the Midwest, and lived in quite a few places throughout my younger life, and then finally settling in this beautiful part of northwestern New Jersey.

Landscape and nature photography has always been my passion.  This was set aside for some years, when I became a professional horse show photographer. This took me to quite a few places throughout the northeast, and led me into graphic design. Preparing photos for print publication required much more than just acquiring the image, in most cases, it also involved graphic work to enhance any details to make the photo stand out in the various magazines.

When I retired that part of my life, I once again returned to the landscape, finding a quiet solitude therein. Only this time, with my knowledge of graphics, I was beginning yet another chapter in my life, performing graphic work for clients. I feel lucky to be one of those people that love their job, and look forward to each day.

My family consists of my ever-supportive husband, my mother, his 2 grown children, 2 horses and 4 cats. In my spare time, you will find me behind my camera outdoors somewhere, usually hiking with my husband, or taking a ride down the back roads. There's nothing better than finding that old barn, or scenery that hasn't been discovered yet."

To explore Nicki's work - check out her own website Nicki McManus or go to the samples page to see some of the beautiful work she has done for Shade Tree Web Designs clients.