Charles was born in Akron, Ohio where his father had a photography studio of his own. "Charlie" started photography at an early age and stayed with his passion throughout his life. A graduate of Port Clinton High School in Ohio, he furthered his education with a BA in History from Ohio State University in 1968.

Following a tour of duty in the United States Air Force, Mr. Brooks completed his MBA degree from Wright State University. This propelled him to a 30-year career with Procter & Gamble Company, ultimately as a Global Demand Manager.

Charles enjoyed his global travels and was determined to share his experiences and visions. He founded BROOKS Photography in 1999, and became a certified professional photographer with the Professional Photographers of America. He has been recognized by that organization with prints accepted in their Loan Exhibit collection in 2003, 2004, 2006, and again in 2007. Mr. Brooks has received the Silver Level Photographer of the Year recognition from the PPA in 2008.

Mr. Brooks' two books, Journey Across CHINA, and A Guide to Cincinnati's Historic Firehouses, leveraged his travel experiences, his education in history, and of course, his skill as a photographer. His third book, Arizona's Amazing Landscape is due to be published in 2008, and Venezia Romantica is planned for release in 2009.