Sheila Thompson“Believe” Wife • Mother • Teacher • Professional Photographer • Business Owner

Apr 4
2 min read

From a young age, Sheila Thompson found joy in creativity. Whether drawing with chalk, painting, or crocheting, she was always exploring artistic expression. She even started a small business selling handcrafted stuffed animals. As she grew older, her passion for the arts led her to photography. She began with disposable cameras before investing in a simple digital camera, capturing moments that reflected her unique perspective. Her love for creativity and technology eventually led her to a career in education, where she taught students how to harness the power of computers for creative expression.

Sheila pursued higher education at the University of South Carolina, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus on Management. She continued her studies at St. Vincent College in Greensburg, PA, obtaining an Advanced Accounting Certification, and later earned her teaching certificate from Seton Hill University. She achieved multiple certifications in data processing, marketing, and business/computer and information technology. Balancing motherhood and her professional aspirations, Sheila went on to earn a Master’s degree at Gannon University in Education and completed coursework for Principal and Superintendent certifications, receiving official recognition from the state of Pennsylvania.

After 20 years as a dedicated teacher and associate professor in Business, Computer, and Information Technology, Sheila retired. Shifting her focus from the classroom to the camera lens, she embraced photography as a means of artistic expression. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, photography became her way of capturing life’s journey and sharing its beauty.

In 2017, she founded Thompson Creative Images, a photography business specializing in high school senior portraits, family and corporate events, headshots, and sports photography. Her talent was recognized in 2021 when she received the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation’s Robert L. Vann Award for Excellence in Visual Presentation for her sports photography series. In Spring 2022, her work was featured in Alzheimer’s Today, showcasing a photo series of the Pittsburgh City United FC soccer team. Sheila’s work was exhibited on the cover of Fenix Innovation Magazine in October 2024 presenting a modern corporate headshot of Jessica Merritt.

With over eight years of experience, currently 67, Sheila’s photography blends contemporary style with natural light and candid compositions, ensuring that every image is more than just a picture—it’s a cherished memory.

Sheila always encouraged her students:

“You have the potential to achieve and become anything you desire. Always remember, it comes from within yourself. Believe in your dreams."

Photo Credit: Brian Cook, Sr. - Golden Sky Media LLC

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