Prior to launching Cheryl Rau Photography in 2008, Cheryl’s professional career consisted of two decades of accomplishments in marketing & communications, event planning, project management and training positions. She has worked in a broad range of environments including small business start-up, government contractor, education, manufacturing, and nonprofit.

Cheryl's key strengths include a strategic approach to problem solving, resourcefulness, attention to details, and demonstrated track record of successfully meeting deadlines within budget. She is a collaborative team player with a reputation for professionalism and integrity.

Cheryl has volunteered her time and talents with local nonprofit organizations including My Wonderful Dog, The Animal Welfare Society, and Maine Friends of Animals. Previously, she also volunteered with the “Pets on Wheels” program, visiting with her dog at a residential facility for Alzheimer’s patients, and served as an On-Call Outreach volunteer with the Sexual Assault Service.

Chery is a graduate of the photography program at the Salt Institute for Documentary Studies (Portland, ME) and an associate member of the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP). She earned a bachelor of arts (summa cum laude) in Journalism & Communications from Point Park College (Pittsburgh, PA). Originally from Pennsylvania, Cheryl lived in the Washington, DC area for 15 years before relocating to Maine in 1997.