Photo Sessions Away From Home
Nearly a decade ago now, I went through a phase where I spent ninety percent of my time away from home, traveling up and down the west coast of the United States. It was both thrilling and exhausting and I did a lot of photo sessions during that time. Every so often I like to revisit the results.
Driftwood At The End Of The World
It’s always a wonderful experience to get to the end of an incredibly long hike and to find a natural monument at the end. In this case I was in Southern Oregon exploring the dunes when the trail led me to a massive piece of driftwood washed up along the Pacific shoreline.
A Nude With Fallen Trees
Walking through the woods and finding a patch of long fallen trees provided a great backdrop for a few figure studies over the summer. The twisted shapes and rough textures contrasted perfecting with the human form.
Expired Film On A Silent Beach
I used to work with expired film a lot. That was of course back in the day when a roll of expired film cost about fifty cents. At that price is was worth the risk of making an image with unpredictable imperfections. Sometimes the risk paid off, sometimes it didn’t.
Nudes With 4x5 Film
I always feel a little intimidated to work with large format 4×5 film and people. When working with the nude in particular, there is a pressure to work quickly, which goes against the ethos of large format, a medium that rewards patience and taking your time.
David Lynch Mural, SE Portland
I’m a big admirer of the late film director David Lynch. I’m also a supporter of public murals. Using the city of Portland as a canvas for art is possibly the best way to bring people together and create a sense of shared space. A large mural of David Lynch was recently unveiled on the inner east side.
Color Film In The Summer Sun
I don’t work with color film nearly as often as I should. This is especially true in the summer months here in Oregon when we have glorious blue skies and warm colors everywhere you look. It’s a perfect combination for film stocks like Kodak Ektar.
Missing Polaroid Type 65
I dearly miss Polaroid Type 65 film. I used to work with it quite often. It was a fantastic peel apart instant film that provided both a positive print and a negative all in one. Fantastic stuff that is sadly long gone.
The Nude And Shape In The Studio
Working with black and white film is often about simplicity. This is especially true when photographing a nude. Working with a single flood light and a camera on a tripod, I can find infinite ways to work with shapes and shadows.
Hasselblad 150mm f/4 "Portrait" Lens
I don’t often work with “portrait” lenses. Most of the time I prefer wide angle focal lengths, even when working with people. Sometimes it is important to step away from what you are used to and try something new.