Bruce Behnke

HS Gallerie Profile: Bruce Behnke Bruce Behnke is a patient and persistent photographer. He has to be. He shoots only using natural light, leaving him completely at the whim of nature and the elements. To capture the image he desires, Behnke must sometimes return to a particular location many times before the ideal conditions arise. “I believe that natural light, especially the light of early morning or late afternoon, provides the most gentle and subtle balance of color, more interesting shadows and unique angles of illumination,” says Behnke.  “I especially like to capture the unusual in the play of light found in the juxtaposition of various natural elements: the solitary ray in a forest illuminating but a single plant; the setting or rising sun backlighting waves or leaves; reflected light and refracted light.” Behnke is not limited to one style of photography. He enjoys shooting vista landscapes, seascapes, botanical, and macro/abstract; all of which he captures with a true artist’s eye and master’s touch. “I have been asked if I shoot some of my photography in a studio.  I do not,” Behnke states.  “I use only the arrangements nature provides.   I don't think I could improve on the opportunities provided in the wild.” The artist says his mission is to convey this interest in nature to those who view his work.  “We all move through life too quickly, with too much noise around us,” he says. “It is my hope that by highlighting some of these elements, it will entice my audience to stop a little more often and look at the world around them and see… really see what is there.” Behnke generally shoots his images with a Nikon D2X and Nikon lenses, but likes to diversify his work by using a Holga Camera or a Zero Image multi-format pinhole camera.  The artist makes his own prints, preferring to maintain control over the final product of his efforts. To view more works from Bruce Behnke, find his gallery below. To purchase his prints visit Pacific Rim Photography’s website at www.pacificrimphotography.com.