Louis Nizer said, "A man who works with his hands is a
laborer; a man who works with his hands and his brain is a craftsman; but a
man who works with his hands, his brain and his heart is an artist." I
believe this to be true. As a photographer, in addition to using my
technical knowledge of photography I must also understand and care
about the subjects I photograph in order to take my work beyond
craftsmanship to art. My photographs are visual statements of what
matters to me about the subjects I photograph. It is essential for me
to be able to relate to my subject on an emotional level in order to convey
its true essence in my work.
Although I know the formulas, rules and techniques of
photography, I don't let these things alone dictate how I visualize a
subject. I view my subjects without the labels that society has
attached to them, which allows me to view the essence of my subjects,
through their form, tone, texture, and color. This allows me to truly
see and understand my subjects. By understanding my subjects I am
better able to interpret my feelings about them and incorporate those
feelings in the photographs I take.
In my journey as a photographer I have progressed
through many stages to the reach the point where I have been able to take
the next step beyond a craftsman to becoming an artist. Learning how to
truly see and understand my subjects has allowed me to add feeling to my
work and the use of photo impressionistic techniques has allowed me to
express those feelings in the images I produce. For me there is no
greater gift then to be able to express my thoughts and feelings regarding
this incredibly diverse and beautiful world through the images I create. My
journey of discovery has just begun!
