My current work is an immersion of my life in my art.  I photograph flowers exclusively.  Well perhaps a few mushrooms.

I grew up on a farm where I gained an appreciation of nature which has remained a lifelong passion.  I currently have a garden where I grow all the flowers I photograph.  This way I am able to record all phases in the lives of my flowers in all kinds of weather.  My objective is to create images which are a reflection of my feelings.

I overcome the limitations of the camera and lens through special techniques.  One of which is to make multiple exposures (usually 10 - 25) for each composition.  Using a tripod, while varying the focus points and amount of light (f stop) I get the raw material.  This enables me to composite an image controlling the clarity and tones of the picture to correspond to my visualization of the final product.  I then process the image to achieve the effect I want.

My intent is to create an image, using flowers, that evokes a wide range of emotions.  It is to be a mirror where I, the artist, and the audience share the ability to see ourselves.  Obviously the reflections differ.

I print all of my own work in Limited Editions of 25 using carefully chosen archival materials.

Bert GF Shankman

 http://www.cameraflora.org/