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Doug Heslep Self-Portrait

Doug Heslep / Self-Portrait

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

With an ever-evolving creative palette, I pour equal energy and effort into every artistic endeavor I undertake. Each genre I delve into becomes a conduit for my excitement and inspiration, as witnessed through the lens of my camera. Every artwork I create is born from tireless exploration, a meticulous examination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

I am my own toughest critic, never settling for anything less than the best of my ability, proudly stating that the term, “that’s good enough”, will never leave my lips. I strive for my results to transcend expectations, becoming a living and breathing testament to my unwavering dedication. And, never will I expect anyone to add anything less to their collection, nor exhibit in their castle, than I would in mine.

doug heslep

BIO

Doug is an educated and experienced photographer who began his career in the commercial sector before transitioning into photographic fine art. With over thirty years of successfully serving clientele in advertising, fashion, and editorial photography, a strong commercial foundation has been established. Currently, he is rebranding his career to merge this structured background with a creative vision, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship as he moves forward.

His fine art emerges from a deep passion for photography, and he will be the first to tell you that drawing or painting, which he greatly admires in those who have the talent, is not his best strength. Though realistically, this is irrelevant because he loves everything about being a photographer. His camera has been an extra appendage throughout most of his life. He acknowledges that when he started in the mid-1970s, the ‘old school’ method of shooting film, developing it by hand, and printing in the darkroom was essential to his growth into the artist he is today. It required significant patience, an insistence on paying attention to detail, and taught him well. Additionally, there was no room for error, especially when compared to the stark contrast of instant gratification offered by today’s technology, which can also ‘save the day’ with the implementation of the right software. And now, with the introduction of AI, who knows how it will effect the industry.

Doug began his transition to digital photography in the late 1990s, during its early development. Once he decided to incorporate it into his business, he adapted quickly, though he had no concept at the time of how transformative this leap would be. He takes pride in his hands-on background, but he also embraces the enhancements that digital technology brings to his imagery. It complements his ability to present his best work and has become integral to his composite creations.

His interests encompass a wide range of subjects, and he refuses to let any single genre define his artistic statement. He believes what sets him apart from the many photographic artists today, who often focus on just one or two subjects, is his desire to explore a wider range of themes. His collection is diverse and boundless, accumulated from many years of putting his camera up to his eye, reflecting his openness to capturing any subject that piques his interest. At the heart of his creativity is a pursuit of beauty in its many forms, as he explores a wide range of ideas and transforms them into compelling, meaningful realities. He finds true joy in bringing his visions to life, driven by a deep passion for what he does. The greatest reward, however, is knowing his work is appreciated by an audience of friends, fans, and collectors.

Although he was initially known as a commercial photographer before presenting himself as a photographic fine artist with his debut exhibit in 2004, his most cherished and widely collected image to date, “My Swan,” was captured on his very first roll of film as a college photography student in 1978. In his case, it seems true that once an artist, always an artist.

 

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