It started with a darkroom. Images of black and white photography hung from the ceiling, clipped to strings with clothespins, igniting creative minds and inquisitive eyes. Then came weekend trips to nearby islands, and searches for picturesque nature and wildlife. Next: Italy, Japan, Peru, Nepal, Mexico, Kenya.

For Lisa and John Merrill of Bellevue, it became an extensive journey around the world, capturing images of people and growing to know cultures of many kinds. And, when they returned home, it opened yet another door of opportunity — a large, diverse portfolio of photographs ready to be shared with the public.

Their hobby became a business.

Now providing art for galleries, guide books, magazines, textbooks, newspapers and travel books worldwide (including National Geographic Traveler, Smithsonian, Outside Magazine and Geo), the pair are surprised by the progress they have made.

Even with 15 years of experience following their voyage around the globe, Lisa Merrill still believes there is more to learn about art.

“Photography is creative, challenging and also thrilling — and we are always perfecting our crafts,” she said.

The freelance photographers have learned to appreciate the beauty of culture. Continuing travels to far and remote places — they now bring along their two children — they pay special attention to the life around them.

“In the end,” Lisa said, “it’s not about the photo—it’s about the interaction with the culture.”

What’s the best way to dive into the essence of a particular culture? Attend a festival, the Merrills say.

“Photography is a conduit to meeting and interacting with people in cultures different from ours, which I find fascinating,” John Merrill said. “I love sharing the beauty and joy of colorful cultural celebrations with friends, family and people who see our images in books, magazines and online.”

A memorable experience for the couple came during a parade on the streets of Cuenca, Ecuador. They snapped thousands of pictures – of swirling skirts, dancing, elaborate costumes and chaos – taking in the spirit of the people through their lenses.

“The feeling of what it’s like to be there … to see people truly let their hair down. That’s what I love most about it all,” Lisa said.

While the couple look forward to future adventures (Thailand and Cambodia are on the list), both take pleasure in the culture of the Seattle area, with its mix of ethnicities, backgrounds and traditions. Plus, there is always some kind of festival or event to attend.

The Merrills hold contracts with Getty Images, Corbis Stock Images and other well-known photo-stock agencies, and they are proud to have relationships with local clients, businesses and nonprofits.

While they continue to strive for artistic perspective and improvement in their photography, they also remember to enjoy their work. “Photography is about experimenting. Photograph what you love and just have fun with it,” said John.

Beyond photography, Lisa spends much of her time volunteering for KidsQuest Children’s Museum and Open Window School, and she teaches private workshops. She also is on the board of Seattle Social Venture Partners.

John is on the board of directors for Northwest Energy Angels, and works as the vice president of development of utility-scale solar-energy projects at OneEnergy Renewables.

During October and November, a selection of their images is on display on the art wall at the South Bellevue Community Center.

To celebrate the five-year anniversary of the center’s art wall, an exhibit and sale will be held on Saturday, Nov. 12 from noon to 5 p.m., featuring work from current and past artists, including the Merrills.

“This is a great place for local artists who otherwise would not be able to find a venue to hang their art and be easily accessible to their friends and family,” said Dot Long, Bellevue Community Services program coordinator. “It is an inspiration to the beginning artist who after seeing an exhibit thinks, ‘Hey, my work could hang here!’ ”

To catch a glimpse of Merrill Images online, visit merrillimages.com.

Laurie Meckling is a student in the University of Washington Department of Communication News Laboratory.