I am the famous Texx Smith! Texx Smith is not my actual name (and I'm not actually famous), but a pen name / computer handle that started when I was a child playing video games (I would put in TEX) for my initials. My real name is James N. Smith. I use a pen name not to hide my identity but to separate myself from all the other James Smith's out there. A quick search on Google of James Smith (104,000+ results!) and Texx Smith (about 20 results), will show you exactly what I mean.
With that out of the way let me tell you about myself. I've been developing for the internet since 1995. I have no formal training. Everything I know I have learned from others developers, books, experimentation and practice practice practice.
I am fully qualified and experienced at web development, graphic design and digital photography. See my examples. All of those banners and sites were created by me. Some of the sites mix pre-bought templates and custom graphics because the customer wanted something fast and inexpensive. That's fine with me. If you are looking for something special, custom design is the way to go (like this site). Usually customers seem to prefer a mix of both.
I have an extensive toolbox filled with the latest software that enables me to get the job done as quickly and artistically as possible. This toolbox of software also makes it faster and easier to make very powerful feature enriched sites if that's what the client desires. I can also do very simplistic and eye appealing sites (like this one) with great ease. I do not have to use the software in my toolbox, I can use a simple text editor like Emacs or Notepad to get the job done. But the toolbox makes it go faster - much faster.
I have several skills that translate into great design for you. I am fully proficient with HTML, DHTML, XML, XHTML, PHP and JavaScript. I have experience with CGI, PERL and Java languages as well. I am currently learning Visual Basic, Java, ASP and C++ (C++ is HARD!). I have been using a camera my whole life I think. As for my artistic ability I not sure you can quantify that. Try judging for your self here.
On a more personal note, I was born in Ohio, grew up as an Air Force Brat and finally settled down in Venice FL.
I have two children, 13 and 9 years old. I hate to disclose my age (my children's age and my level of experience are good clues however).
I love spending time with my kids, computers, the outdoors, fishing, kayaking, photography and mountain biking.
My pet peeves are things that don't work the way they say they do, people who can't (or won't) drive the speed limit and misplacing things.