Through the Lens - A Close-up look at DEHaas PhotoGraphics
VISION
I see two important aspects of an artist’s vision. The first is to recognize a great shot when they see it. The second is to always explore all the different angles and viewpoints, trying to get the most out of a shooting situation. Vision is seeing the possibilities for a great shot, even if that means coming back again and again until all the conditions fall into place and you are able to capture the shot that you visualized in your mind’s eye.
CRAFTSMANSHIP
To me craftsmanship is paramount in all phases of the creative process. From managing settings in the camera to get a perfect exposure, to post-processing the image in Photoshop to create the highest quality file for printing, and finally to personally managing the printing process to achieve the full dynamic range and true colors of an image. I print my own images using an Epson R3000 printer with 8 colors of pigment inks to ensure the highest image quality, archival permanence and rapid delivery to the customer.
DESIGN
As a former Graphic Designer I take great care and attention to detail in my series of Inspirational graphics. I carefully compose the text in and around floral elements in the background image, using a full range of typographic controls to control where lines break and to create a visually pleasing block of text. I often take the time to relocate flowers, petals and leaves around the text to create the most pleasing interaction between the text and the background graphics. I like to use color to emphasize key elements in the text, adding to the understanding of the text and creating a harmony between the text and the background graphics.
MY INSPIRATION.
I have always been interested in photography, film development and printing. The “digital revolution” in photography has freed me from traditional film processing and print making, allowing me to bring the “darkroom to the desktop”. I feel greatly liberated by the freedom that digital cameras and printers bring to the photographic process from exposure to print making. My images are truly inspired by a love of nature and are made possible by the power of technology.
My first attempt at designing inspirational graphics occurred about 8 years ago. I carefully hand lettered texts on highly textured handmade papers containing embedded seeds, leaves, flowers and petals. Needless to say it was very time consuming and very tricky because of the rough texture of the papers.
Unfortunately I discovered that those wonderful flower petals and leaves turned brown after about a year, totally ruining the effect I was after. In my retirement I have again started to explore this process. Instead of hand lettering on unstable handmade papers, I carefully photograph these papers and digitally create the same effect, resulting in a finished product that will endure throughout the years without changing color, and at a price point that fits almost any budget.
Thank you for taking the time to explore my shop. I look forward to doing business with you in the future.
