Through His Lens: Images by Samuel Norton, Jr.

October 29 – November 28, 2022

Artist’s Statement: Samuel Norton, Jr.

My life with photography began at about age 7 as a childhood hobby.

I have always been inspired by photographic styles and technique of many photographers over the years. My greatest inspiration as student in the field was portraiture and photojournalism. Studying the works of George Hurrell, a portrait photographer from the classic Hollywood era, Gordon Parks, a documentary photographer and photojournalist, and the portrait works of James Van DerZee were among my greatest influences. I would be remiss not to include my father who in his own way, introduced me to the camera through his picture taking of important family events.

My greatest development in honing my skills began with taking formal photography classes in high school and college, volunteering as a photographer for school newspapers, taking photos of family members, and working as a darkroom apprentice/technician. Eventually, I began work as a freelance photojournalist for several local newspapers and independent magazines in the Cleveland, Ohio area and beyond. Also as an independent, I’ve expanded my experiences to the area of portraiture and its many subcategories: proms, weddings, publicity portraiture, fashion, and action figure work.

To summarize my perception of photography, I would say it’s the perfect blend of art and technology, two topics I enjoy immensely.