Category Archives: Large Format Photography

Photography Is Over. I’m Still Here.

Photography is dead in the way most people knew it in the 20th century. But my photography is alive because it still requires a human eye, a real camera, real light, and a physical print you can hold.

What I Kept: The Tools That Still Matter

After making the difficult decision to downsize my entire darkroom life, I was left standing in the quiet aftermath, surrounded by tools, materials, and memories that had once been central to who I was as a photographer.

But as I began letting go of what no longer served me, I also became deeply intentional about what I chose to keep.

10 Reasons Why 8×10 May Be the Perfect Format

Large format photography has captivated photographers for over a century, and the 8×10 format stands out as an ideal choice for both traditional analog practitioners and those who prefer to scan and process their work digitally. The 8×10 format offers a unique combination of image quality, creative control, and historical significance, making it a perfect bridge between the past and the present.

Photography in 1980: A World Before DIgital, Internet, and Social Media

In 1980, being a photographer was an entirely different experience than it is today. It was a time of tactile processes, hands-on craftsmanship, and deep engagement with the art form. The conveniences of digital cameras, instant internet connectivity, and social media’s promotional power were still decades away. Photography in this era required dedication, patience, and a connection to the materiality of the craft.

Here’s what it was like to be a photographer in 1980.

My Latest Large & Ultra Large Format Contact Printing Setup

In this new video, I showcase my latest large and ultra-large format contact printing setup, which Tim Jr. and I built specifically for creating silver gelatin split-grade contact prints. I take you through the design, construction, and features of this custom build, explaining how it enhances our workflow and allows us to produce stunning fine art prints. Whether you’re a fellow analog photography enthusiast or simply curious about the craftsmanship behind large format printing, this video offers a detailed look at our innovative approach.

Large Format Silver Gelatin Paper Negative 3-Day Adventure

In my latest article, I invite you to join me on a behind-the-scenes journey through a three-part video series, where I dive into the art and craft of creating silver gelatin paper negatives.

These negatives form the foundation for my fine art handmade platinum/palladium and silver gelatin prints. Across the series, I share the technical details of my workflow, from preparation to final execution, and provide insight into my creative intentions behind each step. Whether you’re an enthusiast or a seasoned photographer, this series offers a unique glimpse into the meticulous process of crafting timeless works of art using a non-traditional silver gelatin paper as the negative medium.

Featured Guest Appearance on Studio Q – Join Me This Saturday, October 5, 2024

I’m excited to announce that I’ll be the featured guest on the Studio Q show this coming Saturday, October 5, 2024. During the show, I’ll be sharing my passion for creating calotype paper negatives, offering a glimpse into the timeless art of photography as pioneered by Fox Talbot. I’ll walk you through the original calotype chemistry and workflow, alongside showcasing some of my most recent works.

Creating Art: Focusing on What Truly Matters

As artists, we often wrestle with questions of purpose, motivation, and fulfillment. What drives us to create? Are we following our true passions, or are we swayed by the expectations of others?

In this article, I want to explore the more profound questions we all face as creators: what do we truly want from life and our art, and how can we align our creative process with those desires? Drawing inspiration from legendary music producer Rick Rubin’s philosophy, we’ll dive into the importance of creating art for yourself without being influenced by the pursuit of success or audience approval. It’s a journey of self-discovery that leads to authentic and deeply fulfilling art.

The Calotype Paper Negative

As a large and ultra-large format photographer, my work has always been deeply rooted in the tactile and deliberate processes of pure analog workflows. Over the years, I’ve developed a profound respect for the materials and techniques that connect me to the origins of photography, allowing me to express my feelings and emotions through the narratives that my images convey.

In today’s article, I share my thoughts and experiences on creating handmade Calotype paper negatives.