I took up photography at 18 when I was given a Kodak Instamatic as a Christmas present. Being interested in art, I found it a useful tool of expression and devoured all of the ‘how-to’ books my local camera store had in stock. I quickly rationalized that the Instamatic was holding me back and needed a 'real' camera so I bought a Beseler Topcon Auto 100. I was hooked.
I'm not a camera collector. In fact, I’ve retired my Nikon F2 after 40 years of dependable service. It's the image that's important to me be it transparency or print.
I studied photography at Pasadena City College, Art Center College of Design, and Phoenix College. Each school influenced my style and presentation. I've been fortunate enough to be included in judged exhibitions and won awards at art competitions.
I changed careers several years ago after deciding to leave interior design for a computer career. I haven’t regretted the move, but learning new job skills left me little time for photography.
I’ve finally been able to make up for lost time. Programs like Photoshop, affordable printers and scaners have opened a new world of processing; allowing me to peel away the onion skin of digital photography.
I used to shoot 35mm film exclusively, but a teacher's proding coaxed me into using larger formats. First, I bought a 4x5 field camera and shot black and white with it. Then I purchased a Fuji 6x7 for color. Now, my digital darkroom allows me to shoot color with both cameras. I primarily drag the 6x7 along when I travel.
I feel like a novice again having to learn all of this new stuff. However, the Internet is a great source of information on photography. I found a new love for the art. Since you're reading these words, you also know by now that the Internet also gives me a great venue to share my work.
I hope you enjoy your visit and come back often.
jw