Over 40,000 years ago, we began to depict animals in cave drawings. Throughout history, mankind’s consistent portrayal of animals in art is a testament to the importance of our connection with the animal kingdom.
As mankind evolved, so did our artwork. We began to not only depict but personify animals. We began to see our human emotions in animals. This anthropomorphism or personification connected us to animals on a deeper and more emotional level.
This collection of work is my perspective and portrayal of the animal kingdom. As a portrait photographer, my intention is for these animal portraits to speak to us. What they say depends on the conscious and subconscious feelings we embody.
By photographing each animal in-studio on a neutral background, I am creating a portrait that is focused on the animal only and often the eyes are the focal point. This deconstructive approach to portraiture allows us to experience the creature in a way otherwise not possible. Through this language of simplistic portraiture, these photographs are aimed to elicit an emotion in the viewer.
Whether it’s beauty, power, or humor, I want to give animals the opportunity to tell their story and to connect with you us an emotional level.
Shika was my first large cat to photograph in studio. Large cats in studio are an experience unlike anything else. The combination of power and grace is tangible. They command respect and one wrong move can make things escalate quickly. I remember distinctly when Shika trainers removed her leash and asked her to walk to the mark. The way she walked was so graceful, and stunningly beautiful. But I was in the middle, at her mercy. The feeling that I could be prey was chilling. She received fresh, uncooked meat as her reward between takes. I only work with trainers who show a great amount of respect for the animals and are incredibly thoughtful with their care. Shika owners not only treat her with dignity but also love. It was obvious there’s an ongoing relationship of trust and appreciation.