In 2000 I purchased an inexpensive digital camera with the intent of learning about .jpg (photo) files. As a technical writer, I thought it would be useful to be able to insert photographs into the procedural material I write. As things turned out, I found minimal use for .jpgs in my work projects but from this innocuous start was born a powerful and flourishing personal passion. Digital photography and digital photo editing software—due to the freedoms and possibilities both offered— captured my imagination and enabled me to create what I experienced as astonishing results. I regard digital photography as a distinctive new and intrinsically more capable medium compared to film photography. Because of this I have chosen to work with non-SLR digital cameras and to generally rely on their automatic capabilities with a couple of exceptions—spot metering and white balance settings.

Seven years and five digital cameras later, I average 10,000 photographs annually and continue to delight in both the process and the resulting creations. My approach to photography is spontaneous and experimental as compared to orchestrated. Daily, my camera goes where I go and serendipity plays a large role in the content that I photograph. The beauty of line and light draws me, as does novelty and color. I’ve gravitated towards object and nature portraiture, close-ups, and tight crops. In the editing process, I interact with the software as a partner, and work to give each individual photograph what I sense it “wants”. I’m happiest with my work when I feel that it reveals an essence, reflects a truth, offers a discovery or surprise—or simply delights the eye.

All of the above is reflected in my The Secret Beauty of Flowers exhibit. After viewing this collection, the owner of the frame shop that I was privileged to use said “I know that these are photographs, but they look like art.” I thrilled as I recognized that this is my exact intent—a subtle melding of reality and art that invites the mind to open to an intriguing place of new possibilities.

The exhibit includes over 45 photographs, a dozen of which are imprinted on ceramic tiles rather than framed. Sleeved prints and note cards will also be offered for sale.

During the exhibit I expect to be on-site with my computer each weekday afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00, as well as full time on the weekend days. I invite you to come and enjoy the exhibit. If you like, bring along your questions and also if you like, a digital photo or two of your own that you would like to explore with me.

Virginia is a member of the NAA’s Photography Interest Group. During the past six years she has exhibited her work annually in one or more of the NAA’s juried shows, receiving an Honorable Mention. Her work has also been shown in three prior solo exhibits at other venues.