Shadows

During one of my most rewarding photography seminars - the instructor gave the usual routine about how the word photography comes from Greek roots, and means “to write with light.” Anyone who attends conventions or seminars on the regular, has heard that countless times. But then he took it a step farther, and said something that has stayed with me ever since. He said “you write with light… but you paint with shadow.”

Fort Stockton, TX

I love photographing shadows… I love including shadows in photographs that aren’t about shadows. They provide powerful contrasts to the light that illuminates the frame.

Birmingham, AL

But they also do something more… in some ways they represent how things impact the world around them.

Scottsdale, AZ

A lot of times I find the shadow of modernity on older subjects to be an interesting statement on the ways in which we progress.

Marfa, TX

Sometimes they represent ways in which we don’t.

Marfa, TX

While visiting Tulsa as part of my roadtrip, I came across a mural on the side of a building where the artist had clearly recognized the shadows and reflections that would be cast on their work. It made for a powerful ways of presenting a beautiful piece that incorporated the world around it.

Tulsa, OK

Whenever my own shadow appears within the frame - I’m usually annoyed at myself for not noticing it before tripping the shutter. But it’s also a good reminder to be cognizant of the impact I’m having on the world around me - not only as a photographer, but as a human being.

Marfa, TX

More to come!