“Untitled” Print on display this month at the Harvey Milk Photo Center at 50 Scott St., San Francisco, CA 94117. Image taken at Strawberry Hill in Golden Gate Park.

Personal Statement:

I have always loved photographing landscapes and details of the natural world. There is nothing better than going for a hike in the woods and capturing what is particularly meaningful about that leaf, branch, tree, forest or valley. For me, the process of being out there and recording is both the means and the end. The walking and seeing inspire reflection; embracing with the camera what is indescribable with words.

I have been exploring the world through photography since I was 13. It was my primary outlet for creative expression growing up, and the shots and prints I worked on the hardest became what I was most proud of about myself. I learned to photograph using a Pentax K-1000 and always loved printing black and white. I’ve shot primarily with a digital SLR for the last ten years, and recently with my phone as well. I still feel most bonded to black and white, which lends itself so well to form, texture and composition. But working with digital images has opened me up more to the additional depth so often possible with color.

Since relocating from the Washington, DC area to San Francisco, the raw and abundant beauty in the city and all around the bay area has renewed my interest in shooting. After taking some classes at the Harvey Milk Photo Center, I wanted to volunteer and contribute to this important community institution in any way possible. Taking part in the McLaren Park photo walks was a natural fit for me, and I hope it shows in my work.

Matt Ball
January, 2014