Inherent to looking is the search for imperfection. I think that for photographers, this search is a major element in the making of a photograph. In my case, and perhaps for many portrait photographers, it is the idiosyncrasies, the quirks, the hint of a story, that create the urge for a picture. Tuning in to an individual’s specifics and recording them is somehow important.

These portraits were made while I was living in Memphis, Tennessee. Maybe it was something about the peculiar character of Memphis, but during that time I met so many people I wanted to photograph. I used a 4 x 5 camera, and took full advantage of the slowness of it. During those moments there is something wonderful about having permission to stare at a person, unguarded, to search their face for a fleeting connection or clarity.

I am not interested in being a cool and distant observer, but a participant, as if gently fanning a flame. By nature the camera is cold - a glimpse of someone’s home, belongings, habits, makes a portrait a bit warmer and richer. So for me it is important to include an environment, though sometimes minimal, that is authentic to my subject.

Ultimately, I hope that each portrait taps into the unique mystery of the person in it.