About this Work

Fred Zafran's portfolios and images are a gentle observation of our human landscape.  The photographs depict streetscapes, cityscapes, landscapes and a few of us as we wander through the day and the unanticipated moments of quiet and solitude.  Beyond the “depictive level,” Zafran's images are about the patterns of shadow, light and darkness that one thing against another creates.  His work focuses less on the particular subject matter, than on seeing and exploring the small corners of a luminous world around us. 

Zafran notes that photography (as in any artistic pursuit) reflects the sum total of one's learning, experience, propensity and predisposition.  He finds that the principal barrier to image making is the ability to see and our readiness to receive.  Through continued work and effort, one gradually begins to observe the profound way light textures the darkness… how it reveals the subtleties, and hidden mysteries of illumination and shadow. 

Zafran observes beauty in things partially seen… illuminated, but hidden in shadows.  Ideas and stories suggested or implied are most compelling.  He finds a subtle profundity in the transient, and in the natural imperfection of things.  In the world well seen and in photographs well crafted, light reveals and reminds us of a beauty long forgotten, or perhaps never known.   

About the Photographer

Fred Zafran lives in Loudoun County, VA and works in the DC metro area.  His photography largely takes place around the small towns in Virginia and in the city.  He came to photography more than 45 years ago (film and basic darkroom work).  Today, all of Zafran's images are captured digitally and printed using archival pigment inks and fine art archival papers. 

Zafran is a juried artist of the Torpedo Factory Art Center in Alexandria, VA and his photography may be seen at Multiple Exposures Gallery or by appointment at his studio.