I was hatched in 1948, in Adelaide, South Australia.
I was interested in photography at a young age and became serious in 1967 when I bought a Pentax Spotmatic. I began to study the art of photography with books and magazines from the library.
My first freelance job was in 1968 photographing a mens basketball team. I also completed several Wedding assignments.
I was called up for National Service and went to Vietnam, where part of my duties was as a photographer for the army. I also had to process and print my work under extreme conditions. It was a great learning curve. I became very adept at improvisation.
On my discharge from the army, I returned to Adelaide and continued my freelance photography and studied Nude Art and Studio Techniques.
Being a Scuba diver since 1969 I incorporated my love of the ocean and photography by designing and building my own underwater housing for my Bronica S2A 6x6 and Metz Flash. This enabled me to freelance both above and below water.
In the mid 1970's I purchased a Bolex 16mm Movie Camera and lenses, and also built an underwater housing for the unit and the movie lights. During this period I also bought a 16mm Arri BL and lenses and studied cinematography for 12 months, gaining experience by doing part time work for local television stations.
I invested in a Protea Farm in the early 1980's which gave me the opportunity to do Flower Catalogues and prints, using my latest camera a Mamiya 645 Super, which became my favourite tool of trade.
In 1990 I sold the farm and opened a florist shop on Port Road, Welland. This now also doubles as a Gallery for my Limited Edition Prints. As a result, I am able to mix more, and exchange ideas with, professionals, enthusiasts and budding photographers. Talking is my other great passion (according to my wife!)
In September 2005 I turned to digital and embraced the new technology. I cut back on my commercial work and concentrated on my Limited Editions and the Web Site which again turned on the creative juices.
At that same time I decided to set myself up to do all my printing, mounting and matting of my photographs in house. The customer then can take their print to a framer to select a frame which will compliment their decor, in the home, office or restaurant. I pride myself in using the best available papers and inks of the highest archival quality which compliment my style. (Hahnemuhle German Etching Matt Fine Art or Fine Art Pearl combined with Epson K3 pigment Inks.)
My love and passion for the art has grown stronger and stronger over the years, and I have never stopped learning. My style and ideas have grown with me.
I am currently located at North Haven in South Australia, where I live with my wife, two Siamese and one Oriental cat, Calvin, Hobbes and Fuj. All four are my top critics.
Check out my websight for the full range of photos that are available. www.jlphotoimages.com.au