Photo Impressionism

"Is it a picture or a painting?"   
Well... it is a little of both.

The images in this collection were created with a Polaroid SX-70 camera and Time Zero Polaroid Film - therefore, it seems like they are pictures. However, once the Polaroid fully develops, there is a period of time when the emulsion remains wet and pliable. Artistically manipulating the emulsion with brush strokes creates this unique special effect making the images seem more like a painting. It's really a lot of fun and easy to do. The hard part is getting your hands on the Polaroid SX-70 camera and film as neither are in production any longer.

Getting creative with instruments ranging from common table silverware to a hand-made series of ball bearings on a stick, I manipulate Time Zero film to create an effect that alters lighting, mood, and space utilization of each image. The choice of tools and the amount of pressure applied creates unlimited effects to simulate the style of brush strokes most frequently associated with impressionist artwork. Taking the picture is only the beginning of this artistic process. I like to recognize an image for what it is, consider the implications of what it says to the viewer and then explore alternative presentations.

My favorite impressionistic portrait is called Hot Day - Cool Dog! It features my dog Abby, a dalmatian, sitting poolside with shades and a Pina Colada. The image is a true testament to my love of dogs, my sense of adventure and off-center humor.