Mike Stacey

Ruin, Flinders Ranges SA



Many of my images are the result of numerous trips to the same location in order to realise a certain quality of light or form. The image capture process using large format camera gear is a contemplative and exacting form of photography where a single shot can take 15 minutes to set up the camera, compose the image on the ground glass, measure the light and finally trip the shutter. However the results, when everything goes right, are unsurpassed by other camera techniques.

The final print is the measure of success in photography, not the computer monitor. Galleries don't hang 60 inch computer monitors, not usually anyway. I've tried all other camera techniques and the final print from a 4 x 5 inch transparency is incomparable in all respects, especially if you want a tack sharp 50 x 40 inch print that will withstand close scrutiny from the most ardent critic.

I also enjoy the creative control that a Large Format camera gives me with image perspective through camera movements. This is not possible with any other kind of camera unless you get a shift lens for a digital camera, which is limited anyway.

I live in the Blue Mountains of NSW Australia and draw much inspiration from my immediate environment although the images I seek could be found within any landscape; coastal, mountainous or desert. The search for photographic depictions that elude description through natural language is a primary motivation for many of the images.

By: Mike Stacey (Australia) ©2008


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Copyright © Mike Stacey . All rights reserved. This photo is not to be used as free stock.
Use without written consent by the author (Mike Stacey) is illegal and punishable by law.