Computers and coding
My computer journey started when I was 11 with MS Paint. At the time, I was hooked on Pokémon and learned how to make fake sprites by stitching together and recoloring Pokémon sprites (if you're curious, here is one I've kept).
Armed with the dubious ability to glue sprites together and the confidence only an 11-year-old can have, I figured I could make a Pokémon-like game. Worst case, if I missed some art, I could stitch some sprites together! Right?! So I downloaded the demo of RPG Maker VX and made a pretty bad game. But when the hero had an axe in their inventory, they could cut down a tree!
It was eye-opening. I discovered the basics of programming, learned GIMP to improve my sprite surgery game, and soon, I was making websites for my presentations at school. I also somehow ended up trying to learn Blender. The interface was challenging back then (2.4-ish if that rings a bell), but it stuck eventually.
I've been experimenting ever since. Whether it's programming, design, 3D graphics, or photography, I love figuring out how things work.
Bicycles
Another big interest in my life is bicycles. I enjoy fixing my bikes (obviously, I have a few) and those of my friends. I've built multiple bikes myself over the years. I find them to be such elegant pieces of machinery. I usually do a bit of bikepacking with my wife in the summer.
Photography
I discovered photography thanks to my mom. I was constantly borrowing her camera until I finally got my own with my first paycheck. Over the years, I've experimented with different styles, but I've always been drawn to photographing shapes and textures. Lately, I've especially enjoyed working in black and white, where form and texture shine. More recently, I joined a cooperative to learn fine art printing. I now volunteer there, helping others to get started with the printer.