Photography has been a part of my life since I was very young. I received my first camera at age ten from my father Dave, himself a photographer, which sparked my continued interest. It was a 35 mm starter camera, a basic point-and-shoot style. Mostly my pictures were of a trip to Rome in 1961 while my step-father John was on a Guggenheim Grant to pursue his interests as a composer.
By the time I was in my twenties I realized that photography would be a part of the rest of my life. After many years of hands-on learning, I finally took a photography course in Lake Havasu City, Arizona, where I learned to develop and print my own black & white film. This experience led me to work part time for a local newspaper where I developed film and made the prints for publication. However, most of what I have learned and keep learning is self-taught.
I have lived now in the Southwestern United States since 1977, and my photographic interests have leaned toward subjects that make this region attractive, especially its vast landscapes, although other themes such as Old-World architecture and scenery are themes which I like to pursue. It is rarely a conscious process; rather, I photograph that which interests me. I photograph whatever I find interesting at the time I come across a particular subject.
I have continued to broaden my interests that have lead me to the best locations to enhance the sharing of my artistic interpretation of the views I might see as I travel to other parts of the world.
I am planning future trips to Wales in pursuit of the historical aspect with my photography and some personal connections with the people of Wales.
In August of 2002 and 2003 I visited South Wales, U.K. to visit friends, to continue my interest in the culture of Wales and to photograph the countryside and historic monuments. In 2006, I visited with friends again and photographed more of the beautiful scenery in South and West Wales.
Please visit my current website at: www.tam-ryan.artistwebsites.com and www.tamryan.com.
