Slowing Down and Seeing Beyond the Frame

Finding Creative Freedom in a World of Overcrowded Landscapes

Photography has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in a household with a darkroom, so I learned the magic of watching a print appear in the developer tray at an early age. Those early experiences left an impression that never faded. Over the years, my relationship with photography has evolved — sometimes intensifying, sometimes taking a backseat to other responsibilities.

When I first picked up a camera, I was drawn to the dramatic sweeping landscapes of the Southwestern U.S. Over time, though, I’ve found myself shifting my attention to other subjects. The places I once photographed in relative solitude have become overcrowded, and the experience of photographing in these locations has become less rewarding for me personally. Now instead of chasing grand vistas, I often seek more intimate landscapes to photograph, focusing on subtle beauty that often goes unnoticed in both natural and urban environments.

My shift in focus has also rekindled my love for black-and-white photography. Although I primarily did color photography for many years, I’ve recently felt a pull back to the simplicity and timelessness of monochrome, which forces me to focus on form and the emotional quality of an image in a way that feels deeply personal. My daily hikes through nature with my dog provide me with frequent opportunities to observe and capture these quieter, more intimate scenes, allowing me to develop a deeper emotional connection with the landscapes around me. 

Why I'm Here on Substack

After transitioning to semi-retirement recently, I’ve had the opportunity to slow down and reconsider where I want to focus my time. In addition to supporting local non-profits, I also want to dedicate significantly more energy to photography — something that wasn’t always possible while working full-time in corporate America. This return to a more intentional approach to photography feels both natural and exciting.

I was never deeply invested in social media, but in recent years, I found myself growing increasingly frustrated with platforms like Instagram. The algorithms have drained the joy from these platforms, making meaningful engagement increasingly difficult. So, rather than fighting against it, I decided to seek out a space that fosters real connections, reflection, and artistic growth. Substack feels like the right place to explore photography in a way that isn’t dictated by engagement metrics. In the short time I’ve been here, I’ve already discovered so many amazing artists and find their work inspirational.

Looking Ahead

I’m excited to use this space to share more than just my finished photographs. I’m also looking forward to sharing my ongoing evolution as an artist, and to connect with and be inspired by others. If that resonates with you, I hope you’ll stick around. Subscribe if you’d like, and feel free to connect — I’d love to have you along for the journey!