Focusing and Finding Space.
Introducing: Jeff Wetherill the President of the Light & Lens Photography Group.
“I’ve been fortunate to have my work appear in Fujilove and Tennessee magazines and on display at various galleries and exhibitions in Illinois, Tennessee, Georgia, and Arizona.”
First of all thank you for taking time and sharing your story. Can you briefly tell us about yourself?
Jeff: Behind the camera is me - coffee love, avid camper, outdoor enthusiast, and someone who loves to capture wander. I'm married to Sarah and we live in Belleville, IL. Our daughter Carly is in college at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. We're also the proud owner of a Weimaraner. I work full-time as the Director of Technology Support Services at St Louis Community College. In terms of my photography, I've been fortunate to have my work appear in Fujilove and Tennessee magazines and on display at various galleries and exhibitions in Illinois, Tennessee, Georgia, and Arizona. I regularly share my photos on Facebook, Instagram, Flickr, and ReadFrames.
Jeffrey Wetherill, Light & Lens President.
Market Street - St Louis, MO
You are the president of the Light & Lens photography group with the Centralia Cultural Society. How did you discover the Light & Lens group and how has the group influenced your photography?
Jeff: I discovered the Light & Lens Club through a personal invitation from Paul Kraay, one of the club's members. At the time, my photography felt a bit isolated, as most of my connections were through social media with people across the world. Paul’s invitation to connect locally was the catalyst I needed to move beyond the screen and meet with others in person.
Engaging with the Light and Lens Club members has certainly influenced my work, challenging me to think outside the box and explore new subjects and techniques. It's also allowed me to join with others on local outings and phototreks. Now, as President, I’m excited to help foster those same opportunities for others as we explore photography together.
Can you share what your camera setup is today? And if you don’t mind any tools you use for editing.
Jeff: I currently use two different canon cameras, I use a Canon 6 d with a 24/105 L series lens on my bike excursions. I also shoot with a Canon R6MKII mirrorless also with a 24/105 L series as my go to lens and Sigma 150/600 for wildlife. I have multiple Godox off camera flashes with a remote trigger and several soft boxes for some of the still life shots and for portrait work that I am just wading into. I use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop for editing.
Your portfolio has an excellent selection of architecture and I would encourage everyone to visit your site. What got you started capturing buildings and landscapes?
Jeff: My fascination with shooting architecture is rooted in the way old buildings hold onto the stories of those who lived and worked within them. There is a quiet power in a well-designed structure that feels 'alive' even without a person in the frame, and I’m constantly seeking to capture the soul of a building or structure. Buildings have stories to tell and I want to visually give them a voice. With a curious eye (and camera in hand!), I created architexturefotos.com to celebrate my love for architecture, with a real emphasis on capturing the textures etched into their surfaces. The site is only the beginning and I look forward to growing and refining it to truly capture the soul of structures, one frame at a time.
“Learning to embrace the imperfections and challenges - like a sudden rainstorm, an unexpected shadow, bad lighting - has actually led to some of my most authentic work.”
What's been a challenge you have had to overcome as a photographer?
Jeff: My biggest hurdles are twofold. One is time. As much as I would love to be out shooting nearly every day, it's challenging when you're working full-time. I hear from friends regularly, they wish they had more time to shoot. I echo that sentiment. I do as much as I can with the time I have, but would love to photograph more frequently. Second is overcoming the 'perfectionist' voice in my head that tells me a shot isn't worth taking if the conditions aren't ideal. Learning to embrace the imperfections and challenges - like a sudden rainstorm, an unexpected shadow, bad lighting - has actually led to some of my most authentic work.
Anything you'd like to one day do as a photographer that you haven't done yet?
Jeff: One day, I’d love to explore large-format film photography because I’m drawn to how slow and intentional it is. There’s a certain calm in spending an hour on just one image, letting the rush of the day fade away while waiting for the light to look exactly right. I love the idea of ducking under a dark cloth and just being still and intentional to capture whatever I’m looking at. That kind of photography feels like a way to stop rushing through life and finally give a single moment my full, quiet attention. Hopefully, the final image is worth all that effort and time.
“we are always looking for new faces and fresh perspectives, no matter what skill level. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, we welcome you.”
How can someone join Light & Lens and why would you recommend them to join?
Jeff: The best way to join is to just show up to one of our gatherings or drop us a message; we are always looking for new faces and fresh perspectives, no matter what skill level. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, we welcome you. I recommend it because photography can be a lonely hobby, and having a group of people who get excited about capturing photos as much as you do can be life-changing. It’s not just about the technical skills; it’s about connecting with others that encourages you to keep clicking the shutter even when you’re feeling uninspired.
What’s the best way for people to see your work?
Jeff: You can reach Jeffrey at info@lightlensclub.com or at his website: architexturefotos.com
Viewers can also visit the Light & Lens facebook group.
