Blake Martin

I am a documentary and landscape photographer, although I have a done a little of everything over time.

My interest in photography began as I read my Dad’s National Geographic as a kid. I loved the images of adventures throughout the world but was particularly inspired by an article on the Pacific Crest Trail and many of Mt. Everest’s early ascents. That also inspired an interest in backpacking and camping that no one in my family shared.

I was also inspired by the photography coming from the Vietnam War, where photojournalism clearly influenced the world.

I began trying to make serious compositions as early as 12, but did not give it much commitment until high school, when I got a real camera, beyond my Kodak Instamatic and Polaroid Swinger. At the same time as my interest in photography was growing, I also fell in love with music. Music and photography competed for my attention. After high school, I made photos in college, did some darkroom work, but really did not fully commit.

After college, I dabbled for decades although my interest was always there. The combination of professional and family demands muted my photography for decades, except for family and vacation photos. About 20 years ago, I committed to taking photography more seriously.

I have studied photography somewhat formally through workshops, online and through interacting with many friends and acquaintances.

As for my photography now, I make it a daily priority, through making new photographs digital or analog, developing and scanning film, and editing and printing.