Colton Allen grew up in rural Canada, and now lives in Talent, Oregon. In 2008, he was diagnosed with ALS, and has since lost most of his motor skills, including his ability to walk, and has been primarily confined to a power chair since 2012. Allen is a self-taught photographer, and began taking photos shortly before being diagnosed with ALS in 2008.
Though Allen started out using a digital SLR, it wasn’t long before he embraced the beauty of film. Using mostly medium format cameras, Allen’s work is now nearly 100% film based.
Inspired by the color photography of Steven Shore and William Eggleston, Allen strives to find simple beauty, in everyday life, but from a unique perspective.
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- JoinedFebruary 2008
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Colton Allen has a unique talent for seeing . . . and presenting what he sees within the borders of a photographic frame. What makes his work special are the subjects he chooses to capture. We would overlook them as being just our "surroundings" and nothing special. But inside his frame, these "insignificant" elements … Read more
Colton Allen has a unique talent for seeing . . . and presenting what he sees within the borders of a photographic frame. What makes his work special are the subjects he chooses to capture. We would overlook them as being just our "surroundings" and nothing special. But inside his frame, these "insignificant" elements are brought together - each in balance with the others - in colors, shapes, light, and shadow. In fact, he IS a "Shadow-Master," using shadows so effectively in his compositions. The title of his book, "In Significance," is a clever play on words. However, when you explore the book and his work online, you realize the title is much more than a play on words. It describes what he feels is most important within each of his captures - to see the beauty and harmony within. Enjoy!
Read lessAn inspiration. A great photographer, every bit after Stephen Shore and William Eggleston in style and execution of his craft. Doing it all from a motorised wheelchair. I only hope to be half as good and yet I have both my legs and arms. It only goes to show that no matter your situation, if you're passionate about wha… Read more
An inspiration. A great photographer, every bit after Stephen Shore and William Eggleston in style and execution of his craft. Doing it all from a motorised wheelchair. I only hope to be half as good and yet I have both my legs and arms. It only goes to show that no matter your situation, if you're passionate about what you love to do, you will do it. Great stuff!!!
Read lessI would say you are very good photographer, very good-good sense of space,color and form. hope you get the praise you deserve.