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Photography was as present in my early life as were crayons. My father
built a darkroom and time in the aromatic dark space fumbling with film
and reels, paper and chemicals had allure from age nine. There is magic
when a blank paper transforms into an image. Photography has been with me
ever since.
A few classes at Art Center in Pasadena, where I learned staged
photography, setting up lights just so and objects placed just so, taught
me studio photography was not for me. Being in awe of nature's design and
patterns, which humble me as I try desperately to capture even a glimpse
of the magnitude before me, is my passion.
A technical note: I strive to share the scene I saw, unaltered, with
the viewer. Therefore, I do not use filters to alter colors, I do not
manipulate the image in the darkroom, and I do not even crop the view from
what I saw through my lens. What you see is what I saw.
But lately, I have manipulated a very few images digitally. These
images will be labeled "twisted" so you will know I have played with
reality. I hope you understand my exploration down this path; it may end,
it may continue. Most famous photographers, for decades, have manipulated
their photographs in the darkroom. I am doing the same, but without the
use of chemicals.
Some photographers and some viewers believe photos can only be art if
the image is black and white. I take color pictures because my world is
colorful.
I do hope at least one of my photos captures your attention, even
briefly.
Some of my images may be viewed and purchased at my website
http://www.tom.eckles.com.
My email address and phone number are listed at the site.
I "discovered" Anchor Bay campground in 1995 and purchased a house just
up the hill soon after. I have participated in the Studio Tour at that
location until 2003, when the house was sold and land near Gualala was
purchased. A home is now in the initial stages of construction; Susan
Shaddick and I will be living there full time upon its completion. Our
intent is to have the studios available for visitors. To join my mailing
list, send an email to tom@eckles.com.
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