Behind the Lens: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected
Some of my favorite photographs almost never happened.
Utah Branch began as a simple dried branch lying on the ground during a hike at Mexican Mountain, Utah. I stepped over it on my way in, but couldn't stop thinking about the intricate texture and detail it might reveal in black and white. On my return, I picked it up and carefully transported it all the way back to my Denver studio (it survived the trip!). I knew that my camera could record every fiber in incredible detail. The result became one of my most memorable images—one collector loved it enough to dedicate an entire wall to display it.
Puff required a different kind of patience. I found this delicate five-inch seed head in a field at The Compass Rose in northern Colorado on a day when the wind was gusting close to 30 mph. I shielded it with my hat until I could get it indoors. I arranged it in a jelly jar on the floor near the fireplace. Using photo stacking with my Phase One XF, I captured 36 separate images at different focus points and merged them into a single image. This was done with the help of a special software to stack the images together, creating one infinitely sharp image. It's proof that even the humblest weeds can become something remarkable.
Ucluelet Snails is another reminder that extraordinary subjects often hide in plain sight. I came across this when I was traveling through British Columbia, in the town of Tofino. This is one of my favorite images - seemingly simple, yet incredibly intricate and unique. I shot this with a Leica 50mm f/1 lens which allowed me to capture the exceptional detail. What might seem insignificant at first glance can reveal incredible patterns, textures, and stories when viewed closely enough. Every time I look at this image, I see new details. Not because the details didn’t exist before, but my view of them changes every time.
Fresh perspective, new appreciation for art. I hope my photogravure prints give this gift to every viewer - the opportunity to slow down, pay closer attention to detail, and discover beauty at every turn.
Which of these three images speaks to you most? Drop me a line or stop by my gallery!
Collecting Photogravure Fine Art Prints
For collectors, photogravure prints represent one of the most refined forms of collectible photography prints. Each print is individually hand-pulled using the intaglio printmaking tradition, creating a unique piece of history with every reveal. Photogravure prints are highly desirable for collectors seeking museum-quality artwork that also captures the spirit of the slow art movement.
Collectors value photogravure for its exceptional tonal depth in black and white photography, a classic style for collectors. The handcrafted photography prints use archival materials designed to last for generations, resulting in limited edition, signed photography prints rather than mass-produced prints.
If you are interested in owning one, please explore available pieces in my online photogravure print collection.
Featured Photogravure Print
Photogravure. 15”x15” Framed
from $1000
Limited Edition Hand printed Photogravure