Talk about Art

Even in the most beautiful places, it's easy to walk by and not notice our surroundings. If we're more focused on our thoughts, or our phone, we don't pay attention to what's under our feet, over our head, or all around us.

Unless, of course, we're hiking with Doug Paulson.

The Salem photographer, who describes himself as a "gotta know why" kind of guy, notices detail, and because he doesn't like keeping good things to himself, he mentions those details.

"I will go on walks with people, and point out things, and they are so amazed. But it's old hat to me.

"My hikes are a learning experience to fellow hikers if they like it or not."

Early on in his photography, he recognized that the details make the difference. Rather than worry about fitting an entire panorama into the image space, he focuses, literally, on the details, which he incorporates with the overall background to create a final piece that calls out to the viewer to enter in and be a part of the space.

"I will circle a subject until I get the best contrast of color and light, thus enhancing the subject.

"Shapes and features in wood, stumps, leaves – these all attract my attention. I like to see the small tree growing on top of a stump or a log. Shells and rocks on the beach, the lines in the sands, these are all things I like to find."

The resulting photographic images capture the movement of the moment. The viewer, set before that moment, has time to step in and listen, watch, wonder – and discover those details that Paulson so dearly loves. It's an opportunity for us to fall in love with those details as well.

Through March 7, Wenaha Gallery (219 E. Main, Dayton) is featuring the nature photography of Doug Paulson. The gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.