Born in New Jersey in 1937 and raised in the suburbs of Denver, Colorado, Robert Adams is an American photographer who documents the changing landscape of the American West. He says that his work is an attempt to “reconcile” his disappointment with the destructive behaviour of people towards nature through his love and respect for the unique landscape of the American West.

He photographed places such as Denver, Portland, Seattle, and Salt Lake City that had caused damage to their environments through suburbanization.

His black and white style of work was first recognised in the mid-1970s through his book The New West. He was also recognised for his participation in the exhibition New Topographics: Photographs of a Man-Altered Landscape in 1975.

His work shows a large variety of tonal range and textures, even with a long depth of field he still manages to capture the details. His images showcase an intimidating presence through the detailed and darkened sky, as well as the intense dark shadows and prominent textures.

Examples of his work and style:

Image Analysis

This photograph has captured a quiet rural landscape featuring a ranch in Keota, Colorado in the background. The image conveys a sense of quiet and solitude which reflects the impact of human presence on the environment.

Adams has used natural lighting to emphasize the details and textures of the landscape. He uses a straightforward composition which focuses on the vast expanse of the rural setting with minimal distraction or elements.

This piece of work is a part of Adams’ project that explores the changing American landscape and the effects of human activity on nature.