Kenny Rogers Awarded for Photography

Kenny Rogers is already well known as a musician, actor and author, but his creative talents extend even further. The singer, who is an avid photographer, was recently honored for his skills behind the camera.

The 75-year-old was  given an honorary master of photography degree from Professional Photographers of America (PPA), during their annual Imaging USA conference in Phoenix. The Country Music Hall of Fame member was part of more than 145 award and degree recipients, who were recognized for their outstanding achievements.

“You start off doing something because you really love it, and it gives you great pleasure,” Rogers says. “With any luck at all, you get better. It was special to receive the highest honor that my photography has to offer. I felt a little intimidated but very flattered and somehow undeserving. What a thrill!”

"We could see in his work that Mr. Rogers is an accomplished photographer, but when we approached him about the honorary master's degree, we were immediately impressed with his enthusiasm for photography," PPA president, Ralph Romaguera Sr., M.Photog.Cr., CPP, API, F-ASP adds. "He's obviously well-known as an entertainer, but he truly is a remarkably talented photographer.”

Prior to the PPA Award & Degree ceremony, which was held at the Symphony Hall in Phoneix, Rogers shared pictures from his upcoming photography book, 'Places I've Been, Things I've Seen.' His previous photography books include 'Kenny Rogers' America' and 'Your Friends and Mine.'

Rogers has a chance to add yet another trophy to his extensive collection. The Texan is nominated for a Grammy, along with good friend Dolly Parton, at the 56th annual Grammy Awards this Sunday (Jan. 26). The pair are nominated for Best Country Duo/Group Performance for their duet 'You Can't Make Old Friends,' which is the title track of his latest album. Purchase the album here.