Brock Hankus
Artist's Statement
I began my adventures into digital photography differently from most people. I took an elective class in college called "Digital Imagery", taught on Photoshop 4 (that's 8 versions ago!). I actually learned how to post-process images using Photoshop before I ever pressed the shutter button on a SLR camera. I didn't know much about photography; in fact I wasn't very interested in film, darkrooms, or chemicals. However, as a Computer Science major I was interested in technology and computers, and Photoshop was particularly intriguing.
Ten years later, I was inspired to take up photography when on a vacation with a friend who was wielding a digital SLR camera. I was taking some garden-variety snapshots with my point and shoot, but it was lacking something. My friend was shooting away while changing lenses and manipulating focusing rings. I wanted to get more out of my photos, and see what I could do with a higher end camera.By now, the technology had evolved to the point where a digital camera could produce an image matching the quality of film.
Now would be the time for me to merge my technical experience with photography.
I searched for photography classes and was drawn to Richard's school. Not only would I learn how to operate my new camera, but I would also get to spend time in the computer lab learning Adobe Lightroom and printing on large format printers! I was hooked after Photo 1, and after three photo classes and teaching the lab for a few sessions, I was ready to give the show a try.
I chose bridges as my theme because I am interested in architectural photography. I thought that bridges offered a variety on architecture that was less conventional than skyscrapers and old buildings. I even learned something in the process; did you know that the bascule bridge is often referred to as the "Chicago style" bridge because the style was used frequently and perfected here in Chicago? My hope for this exhibit is for people to find something unique and interesting in everyday things. I never thought much about the various bridges I cross from day to day, but now I find myself seeing the extraordinary features of almost every bridge I traverse. During this project I became "the bridge guy"; it seems like every week someone told me about a bridge that they saw or drove over to suggest it for my photography, so I'm glad I could encourage their photographer's eye.
I'd like to thank Richard Stromberg and Cara Frison for their tutelage in photography. I'd especially like to thank LeJean Easley for helping me refine my photos and for organizing such a wonderful gallery show. I'd also like to thank my girlfriend Mary Hoffman for giving me the support to pursue my new interest and for being the occasional photo assistant.
