Gary developed an interest in photography around the age of 10 when he used money earned from his paper route to purchase a camera and some darkroom chemicals. During his junior year in high school, he was selected as the photographer for the school paper and yearbook. It was that summer that he took his first photography course taught by Will Counts at Indiana University. His interest and love for photography were confirmed by Counts’ mentoring. As an undergraduate, Gary kept trying to find ways to combine his interest in photography with his initial major in psychology. During his junior year, he was introduced to the field of instructional technology where he learned he could use his interest in photography and perceptual psychology.
During doctoral work, Gary taught photography and graphic production and worked as photographer. His mentors helped shape his knowledge and skills in photography as they helped shape his research interests. After completing his doctorate, Gary pursued a career as a professor and researcher where he co-authored two books and 50 refereed articles.
About 15 years ago, he was introduced to digital photography that reignited his love for photography. Wanting to pursue a different path this time, Gary chose to focus on landscape and wildlife photography although he has been known to spend hours photographing his and other’s Irish Setters. Growing up in southern Indiana, he followed his dad across fields to ponds or vistas, hunted for an elusive rabbit, walked along creek banks to one of their favorite fishing holes, hiked in the woods, or took a Sunday afternoon drive through southern Indiana, often on the backroads. It was on these walks and drives that Gary developed a deep appreciation for nature, especially the beauty of southern Indiana.
When Gary retired in 2014, he, his wife, and two Irish Setters relocated to his native Indiana. He has always had a love for the hills and hollers of southern Indiana. Much of his time now is spent exploring backroads searching for places of beauty in nature to photograph. One of the benefits of his photography is the opportunities to meet interesting characters who are willing to spin a tale and suggest a hidden place to photograph.
Gary has exhibited several solo shows and had his photographs selected for juried shows in Virginia, Texas, and Indiana. Is work is displayed in many homes and offices.
