Self Portraiture’s Role In My Photography

It Has Been an Important Piece From the Beginning

“Calling in the Spirits” — Image by Author

There is a long history of self portraiture in Art. Dürer’s famous “Self-Portrait at 28” was made in the year 1500. This genre has many historical examples in photography as well. Since shortly after the medium was created.

This piece is not about the role of self portraiture in art. It is about the role self portraiture has played in my art.

Self portraiture has been a significant piece in my photography since the very beginning. It is a way of asking questions, and receiving answers. Not always clear answers, but answers enough to often point me in the right direction.

My infatuation with the camera and photography began 48 years ago. It has never left me. I am just as excited by this form of expression today as I was at 22.

“First 4x5 Self Portrait” 1976 — Image by Author

I made the image above right after I moved to Eugene to study photography at the University of Oregon. I look so serious here.

In those days ‘serious’ was all I knew. It still takes hold of me from time to time. Though nothing like the early years.