Techniques & Processes

Subtle Meditations Series:
These prints are created by a selective resin elimination process. I soak a color RC print in warm water for 2-5 minutes to soften the emulsion. The print is removed from the water and patted dry. At this point, I distress the photo with sandpaper, or scratch it with toothpicks and other abrasive objects. The print is then rinsed to remove any emulsion or debris left from the distressing. After the print is rinsed and patted dry, I apply a solution of Sodium Hypochlorite. This can be painted, sprayed, stenciled, or applied in way. The solution starts to eat through the emulsion immediately and is only left on for 14-30 seconds. After desired effect is reached, I immediately rinse the print to remove any solution. It is then put into a vinegar bath to neutralize the sodium hypochlorite. When the print is dried completely I hand paint it using concentrated water colors.
I take the photos in my studio against a white backdrop	Soaking the color photographs in warm water	Photograph after Sodium Hypochlorite is applied
Hand painting the prints	My workspace & tools	All of my paints
Diluted colors

Phosphene Series:
Using color slide film, I take pictures of a white background to obtain a blank transparent slide. I hand paint each slide with transparent concentrated water colors. After the slide dries I create a Polaroid emulsion lift with my Vivitar slide printer and Polaroid 669 film. I then mount the emulsion onto watercolor paper.
Slide Printer	Hand painted slides	Hand painted slides

Lucid Series:
This series is created by first making a color Xerox copy of one of my original jellyfish photographs. Within an hour of making the Xerox, I tape it face down onto a Birch wood panel. I decided to use Birch wood after experimenting with many varieties of wood--the Birch allowed more detail and colors to come through. I then carefully cover the back of the Xerox with a chemical solvent and rub back and forth evenly on the back of it with a smooth tool. This presses the toner from the Xerox into the wood. After the copy is removed and the wood is completely dry, I cover it with a textured gel medium.
Original enlarged Xerox copies