I recently discovered that I just wasn't happy with what I've been shooting. Not the content, per se, but just the final aesthetic. Even a well-composed shot had too much clutter and elements that, while they fit, were not crucial to the overall image that I was trying to create.

During this time of angst about my work, I a documentary on Ikebana (Japanese flower arranging). What struck me about it wasn't the actual arrangements (although they were beautiful) but just the underlying concept of how the negative space around the arrangement was just as important as the arrangement itself. There is a simplicity to this that makes it a real challenge and this the same insight I've had towards my photography as art - that it needs to be simpler and minimal. To cut out all but those elements that are absolutely crucial for achieving the aesthetic that I desire. And, at the same time, to make it visually appealing.

I am still experimenting with this new insight and figuring out how to effectively shoot it. Some of my work will reflect this (to varying degrees of success) but most of it was shot prior.

And now I try to achieve three things in each image: simplicity, elegance, and fluidity.

If you are interested in being a part of this new direction and style, I'd love to hear from you.



ASSOCIATIONS

I am proud to be a member in good standing of the following:

* Professional Photographers of America
* Wedding and Portrait Photographers International
* National Association of Photoshop Professionals
* Boudoir Photographers Network
* Adobe Photographers Directory
* Art World Chicago



ARTIST'S STATEMENT

I am a fine-art photographer that adds the human form within the natural world as the primary element of the image. The images I shoot are artistic in nature, designed to highlight and explore form, keeping in line with my approach of discovering the human form within the context of patterns, colors, and lines drawn by the man-made world. I believe strongly in recording our wonderful and awe-inspiring world while it is available to us. Let each photograph serve as a reminder that we are here for only a moment; we belong to the Earth, it does not belong to us.