Steve Hargrove

The search for the seldom seen is my sole focus. Occasionally, my preparation leads me to the happy intersection of sublime scene and ready shutter finger. 

My images represent many years of observation of the natural world. I define the natural world as any object, person, plant, event, or creature that came into being as a result of the interplay of the biological and geological impulses and forces of our existence. The fleeting perfection of a radiant water lily, the ecstatic smile of a young face, the otherworldly colors of a sunset, the stark beauty of wind-carved sand and cloud dusted sky, or the incredibly intriguing patterns of an agate slice - all are subjects of investigation and wonder.

My work is totally digital, utilizing digital SLR cameras, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom.  I capture raw images and perform the equivalent of what one would do in a chemical darkroom, using digital technology. I crop, resize, dodge, burn, and correct for white balance, exposure, contrast, brightness, and shadow and highlight problems. As digital captures need sharpening for correct display and printing, I sharpen the files for the selected print size, photographic paper used, and likely viewing conditions.

I work in a color-managed environment, and print using archival inks on various high quality inkjet photographic papers, usually in a semi-gloss or satin finish, but occasionally utilizing a matte finish. My prints have color fastness ratings of 100 years or better (per the Wilhelm Imaging independent test results), longer for black and white images.