Besty Bird
Betsy Bird, owner of Ride the Sky Equine Photography, has earned the master of photography degree from Professional Photographers of America. This designation will be presented to Ms. Bird by the PPA president during Imaging USA, the association’s annual convention, to be held in Nashville in January 2026.
"The master of photography degree is a symbol of photographic excellence and professional achievement," officials said. "It is awarded in recognition of superior image-making, continued education and service to the photography profession."
For Ms.
Bird, the honor reflects years of dedication—not just behind the lens—but also in the classroom, on stage and in the community.
“This degree represents so much more than awards or credentials,” said Ms. Bird. “It’s about growth, creativity and giving back to an industry that’s given me so much. I’m incredibly honored to join the ranks of photographers who’ve earned this distinction.”
Ms. Bird serves on the board of eirectors for both the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association, and is one of only three photographers representing the state of Tennessee on the PPA Council.
Known for her storytelling style and heartfelt connection with animals, Ms. Bird specializes in capturing horses, dogs and their humans in a way that’s both "artistic and authentic." Her award-winning work has been featured in numerous publications and is displayed in homes and stables across the country. She is also the co-author of Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans, a resource used by photographers nationwide.