ARTIST'S STATEMENT:

I have spent the last 20+ years passionately photographing the beauty of nature with my photography partner and wife, Asha. We have traveled to some of the most beautiful places across North America, Europe and Asia hiking to some of the best places nature has to offer, lugging my camera equipment through rain, slush and snow, and sought out the special light that captures the hidden beauty.

My interest in photography started as a kid, traveling with my family extensively throughout the world and was inspired by my dad who was and still is an avid photographer. The natural world is an incredible place. As I explore it with my view camera I am constantly amazed at the varied expressions of beauty and design. In my photography, I have tried to capture the essence of nature in its boldest and grandest form. I seek out the most dramatic lighting possible for some subjects and for others, I prefer the softer afterglow at dusk. As important to me as capturing the beauty of a subject, is capturing the beauty of a moment. For me, as a photographer, it is the right combination of subject and moment that makes a successful photograph. I especially enjoy visiting the National Parks during winter. Not only is the photography often better, the parks are much less crowded. The most dramatic photographs are often the result of what most people would consider bad weather. To photograph Yosemite Valley under a fresh coat of snow requires waiting out a winter storm. I also love the dramatic light that often follows or precedes storms. Here are a few examples of which I am especially proud. Enjoy.

MAHESH RAO

BS Eng, MBA (Kellogg Graduate School Of Management)