ARTIST’S STATEMENT for HT NEIGHBORS

MEDIUM:  PHOTOGRAPHY, 35mm FORMAT

THIS ART IS NEITHER DIGITAL NOR DONE ON A COMPUTER.   There is no computer manipulation or darkroom special effects added to any of my photographs.  The only time a computer is involved is when I scan the images to post here.  Every image is an actual 35mm, single frame exposure.  I shoot both black & white and color.  I’ve been hooked ever since my father gave me an old Topcon 35mm camera in 1976 while attending Nurnberg American High School in Germany.  We’d go to the darkroom on the army base in Grafenwohr - and seeing my photos appear before my eyes was too amazing!

As anyone can see, many of my photographs were taken at night.  This is because I have always had jobs where I worked during the day and my only opportunity to burn a bunch of film was at night.  That's the reason for so many timed exposures. 

The “Painting With Light” images range in exposure times from a minute to well over an hour.  My favorite time to create these photographs is in total darkness, except for the moon & stars!  They are usually taken between 11:30 pm and 4:00 am.  The most time-consuming portion of the entire process is locating the landowner and obtaining permission to photograph!  The creativity all comes from within.  I set my camera on a tripod, compose the shot, turn off my light and lock the shutter open.  I then walk around the scene, applying the light with flashlights, colored filters (gels), and a small portable strobe.  I generally use 100 ASA, daylight film with the aperture near f/8.  I use both negative and slide film.  No longer in possession of my own lab equipment, I utilize local professional photo-labs for the enlargements. 

I am currently employed by a great friend (as an Operations Manager for Tri-State Electrical Contractors - see www.tsecinc.com.)  We service and install the electrical and instrumentation for oilfield, natural gas plants and gas compressor stations - in addition to many other industrial locations. 

My lovely wife and I live on 40 acres in central OK, and have 5 beautiful daughters and 4 awesome grandchildren.  In addition to being a licensed master electrician and industrial electrical inspector, my past work experiences have included a Texas state prison correctional officer and electrical supervisor, oilfield roughneck and driller, houseparent in a children’s home, one-hour photo lab equipment service technician, and a one-hour and custom photo lab manager.   If I didn't have to work, I'd be spending most of my time taking pictures, riding my Harley Davidson or snow skiing.  Oh well...maybe some day!

Although my photographs have changed dramatically since I began, the enjoyment and awe that I had from day one, continues with each and every roll of film I expose.  I appreciate you taking the time to browse and I do hope you enjoy!

HT Neighbors