In the mid-nineties I first came to Ireland to visit friends who lived close to Lough Melvin in North Leitrim. I fell in love with the area because of its beauty and unspoiled state. I decided to buy a cottage that was for sale on the lakeshore and I drew up plans for its reconstruction. My original intention was to use it as a holiday home. When the work on the cottage began, I came to oversee its completion. During this time, I realised that I would like to live in Ireland. In 1997 I came to live full time on the shores of Lough Melvin. Photography is my hobby. From my kitchen window, I enjoy a panoramic view of the lake. In fact, the lake is almost like my front garden. It is a constantly changing vista, inspiring and energising, and allows me throughout the summer months to enjoy my second hobby, fly-fishing for trout in the unique fishery of the Lough.

I was born in Bern, Switzerland, and my educational background is in Architecture and Design. After an Architecture apprenticeship (1969-73), and a course in Fine Arts at Art College in Basel (1973-74), I graduated in Product Design from the College of Design in Zurich in 1979. My love of photography has allowed me to develop my business, DA Cards & Calendars. My background in Product Design and the training for that career has helped me to see everyday things from a different perspective. With the aid of a digital camera and computer, I create wildlife- and nature-orientated cards.

Photography is now both a business and a hobby. I spend most of my time behind the camera, continuously recording the flora and fauna of the local area, as well as the wide range of seasonal changes which occur throughout the year.