beyondbordersphotography
Photographer's Statement
"I am an independent photographer and traveler. Since completing a professional career in water management, I have traveled annually throughout the “greater” Middle East, always including the Kurdish peoples in my explorations.
As a guest, a friend, and a student, I am a cultural photographer of ordinary moments which are consistently overshadowed by the dramatic and often violent images from this part of the world. We need to be reminded of those, who despite the hardships of place, have no choice but to live their lives to the best of their abilities. They often flourish against the odds.
My adoption of digital technology 3 years ago has not changed my consideration of self as a “traditional” photographer. My images are essentially full-frame and I largely limit the processing manipulation to the traditional tools of managing exposure and contrast. Black-and-white photography always has been, and remains to be, my preference. The reasons for this can be complex but need not be so: Simply, I believe that B&W images are graphically strong and compelling. However, I do include color images in presentations and gallery exhibitions as appropriate for subject matter, venue, and audience.
Individually my photographs tell stories that extend well beyond the frame; collectively they are a novel – in this case of the Kurdish people in the first decade of the 21st century.
To all those who have welcomed me into their homes and lives, affording me intimate experiences and images, I say “thank you” from the bottom of my heart."
R. Leutheuser, December 2011
A Very Short Biography
I have been taking photographs for about 45 years now. I embarked on my first extended free-form overseas travel in South America and the Caribbean with camera in hand shortly after graduating from the University of Michigan. While serving in the Peace Corps I lived in the Central African Empire/Republic for 3 years in the late-seventies, and upon returning to the States I embarked on a successful 20-year professional career working in Western US water management. Overseas travels and photo adventures, though less extensive during this period, continued to feed the beast. I concluded my civil service career at the turn of the millennium and since have concentrated my energies on life, photography, and travel.
