Shelly Thorene was born and raised in Northern Minnesota. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Art, with emphasis in Photography from San Jose State University in 1993.

Shelly's heart-centered approach to the photographic medium is uniquely personal, yet her images resonate with a universal language. She incorporates this quality in both her artistic and commercial work.

She is a member of the Placerville Arts Association, El Dorado Arts Council, National Press Photographers Association and Gold Country Artists Gallery. She currently works for the Mountain Democrat as a photojournalist yet still finds time to freelance.

For more information, go to: shellythorenephotography.com.