DeFord Photograph was named the “2014 Small Business of the Year” Oct. 25 at the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce’s annual Dinner and Auction at the Port Orchard Eagles Hall.

Owner Shirley DeFord officially started her business in 2008 and specializes in “family photography.”

Shelia Cline, of MoonDogs Too, the 2013 Small Business of the Year winner, introduced the winner.

“She is a very giving person,” said Cline. “She is always willing to donate her time and services anytime there is a silent auction or donation that needs to be made.”

DeFord thanks the support of her husband, Bruce, and son, Ben.

“Behind this successful woman is a strong, cooperating man,” she said. “Along with my righthand man — my son.”

DeFord said the award isn’t just for her.

“This award is for every single business owner and person who donates time,” DeFord said. “It is for all of your random acts of kindness and those not so random.”

She said when people help others succeed, that’s when they become successful.

“My challenge to each one here is to make a difference,” DeFord said. “Make a difference in your home first, in your workplace then in public.”

While at South Kitsap High School, DeFord took a photography class with instructor Dave Olsen for two years, who was also in attendance at the dinner.

“I got interested in photography as a teenager and spent two years learning from Olson,” she said.

After graduation, DeFord went to Clover Park Vocation Technical Institute and earned a two-year degree in commercial photography. She continued to study photography under Charles Lewis in Grand Rapids, Mich.; Thomas Morrelli in Brewer, Maine; and Bruce Hudson of Hudson Portrait Design in Tukwila.

DeFord was born and attended school in South Kitsap. She and her husband have four children.

She also is a board member for Fathoms O’ Fun, along with working with the Washington State Christian Talent Contest for more than 15 years.