I was trained as a psychiatric social worker and worked in that field since the late 1980s. I have been practicing portrait photography since the early 1990s as well. It has always been my experience that when practiced well, there is a remarkable resonance between these two arts.
I have found that the best photographs, like the best therapy, occur when I don't talk too much, when I engage my subjects with unconditional acceptance and love, when I let go of my desire for a particular result and take my direction from the life that is presented to me.
My goal is not to record the glaring beauty that turns every head but to pause long enough that the quiet beauty, that waits almost invisible everywhere one turns, of experience, sadness, kindness, will be revealed.
Thank you very much for your interest. Please contact me directly regarding print purchases or to arrange a photographic session.
ward shortridge
