commissions

Countless talented photographers make pleasing images of their subject. I have made many such portraits. However, I would like to go beyond this. For me, a portrait commission is an opportunity to explore ways to reveal something more of my subject’s character, an exploration that requires time, dialogue, and collaboration. I no longer make studio portraits; I prefer to try to discover a visual setting which contributes to the portrayal of my subject. This is often very challenging. Whenever possible, I use only natural light.

If you are seeking a retouched portrait, with smoothed skin, sharpened eyes, and so on,  my portraits are not for you.

My choice of medium and how I use it coheres with my approach. I prefer the 4x5 large format camera, using the medium-format camera at times. I process my film by hand, and make traditional silver-gelatin prints directly from these negatives, one at a time, enlarging to a size appropriate to the image. I use time-honored techniques to make the most compelling print possible. Final prints, made exclusively on double-weight fiber paper, are processed to archival standards, individually toned in selenium for enhanced depth, warmth of tone, and permanence, and may be varnished by hand to optimize surface appearance. Each print is mounted and over-matted using 100% cotton rag board.

If you are interested in considering a portrait, please contact me.