El McCarthy is doing an extensive study of Monmouth County under the guidance of noted photographer, Laury Egan, concentrating on geometric composition with an emphasis on figure/ground relationships and the thoughtful use of negative space.

Her appreciation of photography as a fine arts medium began as a hobby with childhood photography and art classes. While earning a B.S. degree in fashion design and media arts from Virginia Tech and taking advanced courses at the School of Visual Arts in NYC, she art directed photographers, stylists, and designers throughout her career as an advertising art director. Her work with Seventeen magazine, various retailers, publications, and advertising agencies, piqued her interest in photography as she continued her class study and experimentation.