Black and White Photography of the Southwest

“Land of Enchantment” Janis Schwartz lived in New Mexico for 14 years and was an avid photographer shooting black and white film predominantly to capture the dramatic landscape and cultures that are abundant in the area and so inherently picturesque not requiring color.”My film of choice was HIE Kodak’s high speed infrared film which captures the invisible light spectrum creating an ethereal quality and an almost glow to the finished image.”All of these images are traditional silver gelatin prints that I personally have printed in the wet darkroom and am still printing today. “Northern New Mexico with it’s towering thunderheads in summer and festive powerful Native American dances and celebrations is an intoxicating environment for photographic expression. My photographs are intended to express the spiritual fullness of this magnificent land and it’s peoples. I have sought to portray nostalgia and tranquility in the Western setting. Combining sensitivity and love for the land, it’s people and animals with a desire to document the lifestyle of the West.”