Sharing Stories from the Wild

"Photography is more than just art; it's a way to preserve and share the stories of the wild places that need our respect and protection." Kristen Kabrin, a photographer deeply committed to environmental awareness, has shaped her philosophy for protection and preservation through her world travels. Born outside the city limits of Great Falls, Montana, in the shadow of Malmstrom Air Force Base, Kristen's upbringing in a military family allowed her to travel the world and participate in various cultural experiences.

Kristen considers her creativity today as shaped by a deep connection with the landscapes and stories of the American West. Even though Kristen earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Nevada, Reno, and a subsequent 25-year career in the institution's Political Science Department, she has always been a creative spirit at her core. Kristen credits her roots in her artistic journey to a few key individuals. Jim Brandenburg was the first photographer to "show her the light" in how light shifts and transforms a scene into something magical. From Jim, Kristen learned patience, the art of waiting for the right moment rather than chasing it. Charlie Waite altered her perception of landscapes by showing her that a scene is more than a pretty picture; it's a mood, an intimate moment, and a story waiting to be told. His work guided Kristen into the quiet poetry of place.

 And then there were the great masters, such as J.M.W. Turner, and the sfumato techniques of the Renaissance painters. "Their ability to create depth and emotion through soft transitions has influenced my approach to black-and-white photography, particularly in my wild horse series." Kristen adds, "I strive to allow details to emerge naturally, capturing the quiet drama and movement within each scene." Workshops and mentorships with seasoned photographers have significantly refined Kristen's technical skills. These professionals have nurtured an understanding of the nuances of camera settings, post-processing, and the business side of the art world in her work. However, Kristen's deep commitment to her craft and determination to continue pushing the envelope on what she is learning contribute to her success.

Kristen emphasizes, "Beyond structured training, my greatest education comes from the field, quite literally. The time spent in the desert, on backroads, and in remote landscapes has taught me more than I could imagine. It is putting in the time and effort to constantly show up, camera in hand, ready to watch the story unfold." Once the image is captured, Kristen’s creative process continues in her workspace in Fallon, Nevada, where she refines and develops each photograph. She views editing not to alter reality but as a means of bringing forward the emotion and atmosphere she experienced in the moment. Regardless of whether she is working on a black-and-white wild horse image or a full-color sweeping landscape, her goal is to let the scene speak for itself by enhancing the depth, tones, and textures that make each piece unique. Kristen's deep commitment to her craft and her determination to continue pushing the envelope on what she is learning are key factors in her success.

More than the beauty of the natural world, Kristen is inspired by the idea that her work can encourage others to see places and creatures with new appreciation. She says, "If a photograph sparks curiosity, wonder, or even a sense of responsibility to protect these landscapes and wildlife, then I've done my job bringing awareness to the subject." Kristen's love for photography is fueled by the endless opportunities to learn, explore, and see the world with fresh eyes. Her mission to continue pushing her creative boundaries, refining her ability to capture light, movement, and emotion in a way that resonates deeply with viewers, is a testament to her dedication to her craft and her commitment to promoting environmental awareness. Expanding her portfolio with new landscapes, wildlife encounters, and black-and-white studies is also a priority.

At the core of Kristen's work is her dedication to creating impactful images that inspire a love for the wild places and creatures we share this world with. Currently, her work is showcased at Anticus Gallery in Old Town Scottsdale, Arizona, and during the three months of the Arizona Fine Art Expo, located in north Scottsdale. Kristen's traditional photography, blended with elements of fine art presentation, has earned her a reputation for enhancing natural beauty and creating a tangible connection between the viewer and the image. Her unique style, which has won her numerous awards and a loyal following of enthusiastic collectors, is a testament to the power of her work to resonate deeply with her audience.

Email: kristen@kristenkabrin.com

Website: www.kristenkabrin.com