About Sam Dobrow

Artist Statement

As a photographer, I feel a profound connection to the world, using my camera as both an explorer and a storyteller. My journey began in childhood, when I was given my first camera by my father, a gift that transformed this shy little kid into someone who would explore the world with confidence.

In high school, I honed my skills through “straight photography,” drawing inspiration from masters like Ansel Adams and Edward Weston. I focused on black and white darkroom processes for portraiture, still life, and landscapes. But it was the dream-like creations of Jerry Uelsmann at the University of Florida that pulled me toward a more imaginative path. Later in life, at the Art Institute of Atlanta, portraiture further fueled my creativity, where the powerful images of Richard Avedon and Patrick Demarchelier trained my eye in capturing the beauty of humanity.

The digital photography era reignited my passion with new possibilities. I returned to school at the Art Institute of Atlanta to learn the latest digital techniques. Digital tools liberated me from the constraints of wet darkroom processes, allowing me to explore vibrant color photography. Today, my work centers on fine art photography, beginning with a captured image and evolving into fine art through digital manipulations.

I am guided by a love for travel and the thrill of new experiences. I search for beautifully lit scenes with layers—front, middle, and back—enhanced by dramatic lighting and bold colors. Light and shadow are my paintbrushes, aiming to stir romance, spark insight, and inspire joy in those who view my work.

Art history is a constant muse. I find inspiration in Vincent Van Gogh’s vivid brushstrokes and Salvador Dali’s dreamlike Surrealism. My work often captures the beauty of nature, the vastness of the universe, and the elegant feminine form.

Technology plays a crucial role in my process. I use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to develop digital photos into large, high-definition artworks. A unique part of my technique involves crafting a “master black and white print” with Nik Silver Efex, which I layer over color images to evoke the nostalgic quality of classic film photography.

Surrealism is a major theme in my work. By using the Liquify tool in Photoshop, I transform images from real to surreal, creating art that remains grounded in photography while transporting viewers into fantastical worlds. I am also fond of simulating a color film photography technique, cross processing, to completely transform the color pallet of a digital photograph. While AI is becoming more prevalent in art, it’s the human touch that sets my work apart from AI-generated art—grounded in the authenticity of my camera and the meticulous creativity of digital editing.

Ultimately, my goal is to capture and share my vision of beauty, fantasy, sensuality, and eroticism. Through my creations, I invite you to journey into new realms that explore the incredible beauty and endless possibilities of our universe.

This is my artistic voice; listen to the whispers, observe, and discover the story written for you.   [read more]