My first experience with photography was with a box camera I inherited from a family member.  I remember the camera, but not the pictures.  In high school I joined the yearbook photography staff where I earned the nickname "Flash" (not very creative I admit, but it wasn't my choice).  That not only gave me access to a decent twin lens reflex camera, but also darkroom experience,  I used the camera outside of school to experiment, and found myself drawn to the railroad and industry.  When I entered college my foundation photography class instructor asked if anyone had any previous photo experience.  When I mentioned my yearbook work he informed me that he hated yearbook photographers and the only grade he would ever give me was a "D".  From that point on I did not follow assignments and submitted whatever I damn well pleased, making it easier for him to live up to his prediction.  I also joined the college yearbook photography staff (in your face internationally renowned photo instructor).  I left school sans degree, and went to work at the railroad.  I would later go back to finish up my undergraduate studies and find much more supportive instructors.

My years at the railroad brought me close up and personal with one of my passions, and the camera has been my companion in this journey.  I am now retired and have returned to photography.  The images on this site are a compilation of years of work that are now seeing the light of day.  I hope you enjoy my work, and will give me a better than a "D" grade.

David Daruszka
Chicago, IL