A BIT ABOUT
PHOTOGRAPHER HANK ROARK

Artistic Vision and Philosophy

Hank’s work delves into nature’s intricate details, capturing the natural world’s often-overlooked elements. These extractions allow him to infuse personal creativity into each photograph, sharing the profound awe of all things nature with the world.

Style and Techniques

Hank’s photographic style is a unique blend of intimate landscapes and nature’s smaller, detailed aspects. He employs a combination of color and black-and-white techniques, and has developed a custom black-and-white printing approach that is a marvel in itself, rivaling the finest silver gelatin prints. This unique process allows him to highlight his subjects’ textures and subtle nuances, a technique that is sure to intrigue and fascinate any art enthusiast.

While Hank embraces advanced photo processing techniques, he does not use AI in his photographs. Photography, for him, is fundamentally about capturing light. All of the “pixels” in Hank’s images originate from his photographs, ensuring that his work authentically reflects his vision and experiences.

Background and Education

Growing up in Eastern Kentucky, Hank’s father instilled in him a deep love for the outdoors. His passion for photography began when he captured a sunrise over the rolling hills of Kentucky, a vivid moment in his memory. Hank’s journey continued in high school, where his teacher and cousin introduced him to the darkroom. This blend of creative expression and scientific learning fascinated Hank, leading him to pursue a degree in physics with a specialization in quantum optics.

In college, his studies on how light interacts with atoms intertwined seamlessly with his hobby, photography, which is “drawing with light.” Hank had the opportunity to take technical photos for publications and books, with one of his most rewarding experiences being capturing the colorful interference patterns of a bubble surface using a technical view camera and off-camera lighting.

Body of Work

Over the years, Hank’s photographic interests have evolved, a journey that is sure to inspire any art enthusiast. Initially drawn to travel and portraiture during family-centric times, he shifted to landscapes and nature when he moved to Washington State in 2016. The rejuvenating landscapes inspired him to document the beauty around him, and his work now encompasses color and black-and-white photography, showcasing the diverse beauty of nature. This evolution in his art is a testament to his passion and dedication, and is sure to inspire a sense of connection with his work.

Personal Touch

One of the most defining moments in Hank’s photographic journey was seeing his first enlarged photograph, a sunrise over Kentucky’s hills, where the clouds reflected the sunlight extraordinarily—this moment sparked a lifelong passion for capturing the essence of nature. This personal connection to his work, coupled with his experience in the darkroom, blending his love for the physical sciences with creative expression, has profoundly influenced his approach to photography, adding a sense of intimacy and personal touch to his art.

Finally…

For inquiries or to view more of Hank’s work, please visit his portfolios, follow him on Instagram @hankroarkphoto, and sign-up for VIP Access. Hank would like to extend gratitude to his father for nurturing his love for nature, to his teachers and mentors who have supported his journey, and to Hank’s partner Stephanie for loving him every step of this journey.