JCCFS: Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your area of expertise? How did you become established in your craft?

JG: Photography has been a lifelong pursuit for me. As a Master of Photography, I am especially drawn to landscapes and nature. I am recognized for my work through the awards I’ve earned and the many photographers I’ve had the privilege to mentor and teach.

JCCFS: What mediums do you use and where do you derive inspiration from?

JG: I favor digital cameras but keep film close at hand. A photograph reaches its final form in the print. Watercolor and metallic papers sing to me, and my inspiration comes from immersing myself in the work of other photographers.

JCCFS: What are you most excited to experience during your time here at the Folk School?

JG: My time at the Folk School is something I truly love. Creating there is rewarding, but it’s the camaraderie and fellowship with other artists that make it special.

JCCFS: What does a day in the studio look like? What kind of activities do students participate in?

JG: In the studio, my approach is to demonstrate each concept and then work individually with students to ensure understanding. We will explore lighting, camera settings, compositional elements, post-processing, and printing. By photographing together, we create an environment where everyone can learn from each other.

JCCFS: How do you feel about campus? Where did you spend the most time, and what area was your favorite?

JG: Our campus offers beautiful grounds and inspiring landscapes just steps away. We will wander the campus and venture to additional locations to fuel our creative inspiration.

JCCFS: How did you hear about the Folk School? What made you interested in coming to campus?

JG: I worked with Brittany McConnel, who introduced me to the Folk School, and I have been blessed by that connection ever since. The campus has a soothing, inspiring presence, and I always leave at the end of a class feeling like a better person.

JCCFS: What did you make during your time at JCCFS? What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

JG: Creating impactful images that inspire other photographers is always a goal of mine, and it’s a goal that consistently comes to life at the Folk School. The real challenge lies in finding a compelling composition and working it until it becomes something truly special.

JCCFS: What tips would you give a student or aspiring craftsperson? Anything you wish you had known earlier in your career?

JG: Follow your passion, no matter how far it strays from the norm. All great artists dare to break the rules.

JCCFS: Where can folks find you if they want to stay up to date on your work?

JG:  You can learn more about me and see more of my photography on my website:    www.jgulle.com