Wasatch Frame Shop

Reflecting on the various images I have recently taken has left me with a similar feeling for each unique photograph. The images have a certain air about them: they’re not deep; they don’t persuade the viewer toward some socio-ethical cause. They don’t try to reveal the inner man, or conclude the mysteries of love and hate. They’re not even the complex expressions of a frustrated artist. In fact, they’re quite the opposite; they’re still.

I came across a term a while back: Sotto Voce. It’s Italian for “in an undertone” As I read it, and the more I thought about it, the more it seemed to fit as an explanation for my work: the quiet subtleties of things of the past, a simple landscape, and the traditional time-tested method of the Silver Print, all seemed to come together.

The old and used, tried and tested, broken and forgotten is where I find my inspiration. I find emotion in texture and contrast, and beauty in the simple and quiet. Some of my favorite work was done unplanned, while alone, looking at the world around me . . .Sotto Voce.

..More About My Work

I recently saw an image online; it was beautiful black and white landscape titled “A Tribute to Ansel Adams”. The image was shot with a digital camera. I found myself somewhat bothered by this title. I hold no grudge against digital photography; I shoot a lot of digital myself. But to give tribute to a Master of Photography with a snapshot digital image that was manipulated in Photoshop shows proof of our changing times and perhaps a dwindling art.

Maureen Gallagher, one of the editors for Lens Work Magazine, wrote:

“The relationship between photographer and subject is no different than that between people; if you’re not willing to give, chances are you can’t expect too much in return.”

The images I have prepared for this show were shot with a wooden 4x5 field view camera. The sheet film I hand developed in trays, and the prints I made in the modest darkroom in my basement. Each silver print requires hours of work and meticulous care. Spending so much time and effort with one photograph inevitably starts a relationship between the artist and his art.

I do not wish to attribute any of my work to any Master Artist of the past; I do however, attribute my work to all photographers and photo enthusiasts who seek and sometimes find solace in the beauty of a simple photograph.

Brandon Allen

April 14, 2006

See more of my work at:

www.brandonallenphotography.com

Photographs by Brandon Allen

Sotto Voce

May 19 to August 18, 2006

all images ©brandon allen photography