I am an orthopedic surgeon who first became interested in photography after watching my grandfather and father never take a hike without their cameras. The first real camera I purchased was a Nikkormat, recommended by an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Henry Okagaki at the University of Wisconsin Madison during my orthopedic residency. Dr. “O” befriended me and treated me as if I were his own son. He helped me setup a primitive darkroom and taught me how to develop film, appreciate lighting and exposure and not to get discouraged when Dr. “O” would say, “That print looks kind of muddy Jim! Here is what I would do.”

My interest in basic science and anatomy has carried over to my passion for photography. During my orthopedic residency and spine fellowship I was frequently in the anatomy lab photographing anatomical dissections so that they could be carefully studied for detail. That same interest is seen in my photography, where I strive to capture images for their detail. I appreciate the optical ability of the camera to objectively capture a subject that was momentarily present when the shutter opened and closed. I also appreciate that as a photographer I can recall the sensory input at the time the image was captured, including sensations of smell, sound, sight and feel of the surrounding environment. I can then take this sensory input and artistically utilize it to render an image, allowing me to convey photography as a pleasurable form of art.

Oftentimes I have had to look no further than the front door, deck or window of our home in Steamboat Springs, CO. I forever remain appreciative of God and the gifts given to us for our enjoyment. I understand that one image capture only leads to a desire to capture and render more. My best friend and wife of 37 years oftentimes is my “key grip”, driving while I scan the landscape. She tolerates my compulsive behavior and is patient beyond expectations, frequently repeating, “I don’t mind stopping again!” I am also thankful for her endless input on image composition and critique of my image editing. Our three grown children have frequently been the subjects of my action photography while they participated in freestyle and freeride skiing competitions.

I am confident my imagery inspires all to look beyond their front door and experience more than that one click of a camera’s shutter. I also truly believe what Ansel Adams once said:

You don’t take a photograph, you make it.
Ansel Adam, Time, December 31, 1984.

The Web is a means of viewing a small range of my fine art photography, but the archival prints truly reveal the detail and artistic expressions I am capable of presenting. You are welcome to contact me at info@jimgmeiner.com for information concerning custom image sizing and pricing, image editing and printing services.