A Photographic Journey Begins...Again
IMAGE FRONTIERS Photography #01
This post is best viewed on the website — it includes stories, photos, and reflections from across decades.
I’m David Rosen, and after decades of tech, life, and leadership, I’m finally stepping back to reconnect with a first love: photography.
A Photographic Journey Begins Again is my re-entry point—a visual and personal exploration through images, lessons, and the creative unknown. Come see the work, and help shape where this goes next.
👉 Click here to read on IMAGE FRONTIERS
Hi {{ subscriber.name }},
Welcome photography enthusiasts and fellow explorers—I'm David Rosen.
Thanks for being here. Whether you’re a curious hobbyist, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, Image Frontiers is a space for us to learn, create, and connect through photography.
Why This, Why Now? 📅
At 14, I was in darkrooms, watching images emerge on film, slides, and photo paper like magic. Over the decades, photography remained a part of me—sometimes buried under work in the tech world, family life, and leadership roles—but never lost.
Now, I’m taking a long-overdue sabbatical, my first real break from work since I was 12 years old. My kids are grown and off building lives of their own, and I finally have the space to reconnect deeply with photography—not just as a hobby, but as a practice, a learning journey, and a creative outlet.
Image Frontiers was born out of this reawakening.
What This Publication Is About 📍
This isn’t a polished portfolio. It’s a living journey. I’ll be sharing:
Stories through images — from recent shoots and decades past
Techniques and tools — gear, workflows, and digital challenges
Personal reflections — exploring identity, voice, and process
Behind-the-scenes looks — including prints, mistakes, and learnings
Community engagement — where your thoughts and feedback matter
Think of Image Frontiers as a creative lab and a digital campfire where we reflect, refine, and grow—together.
So... Who Am I as a Photographer? 🧐
I recently gave a presentation at the Boston Camera Club, which prompted me to think about my photographic identity. I'm exploring, questioning, and experimenting. Here are some categories I'm practicing—each one with a question that helps me figure out what resonates.
“I'm still figuring out who I am as a photographer. But I'm closer than ever—and with you here, I hope to find out.”
Photojournalist 📷
Am I drawn to documenting moments that might gain significance over time, like a fleeting expression or a cultural event?
Travel Photographer✈️
Do I excel at capturing the essence of local cultures, histories, architectures, and people, from bustling markets to quiet villages?
Street 🌆
Do I thrive in the spontaneity of urban life, capturing candid moments or posed portraits on city streets? And what makes a street photo—does it need a street, or just a story?
Urban / Architecture 🏛️
Am I fascinated by the lines and stories of buildings, or do I lean toward landscapes that stand still for countless lenses?
Abstract or Quirky 🎨
Do I shoot unintentional or intentional camera movement, chase the reflections in water, or sparkle of interesting colors, and double-takes, even if my color correction needs work?
Do You like Quirky?
Humorist with a Lens 😅
Do I find joy in the quirky—like mopeds flashing peace signs or kids playing in fountains—while navigating the ethics of candid photography?
These questions, among others, swirl in my mind as I experiment and grow. I lean toward being a “mechanic” of photography—mastering the technical details—while striving to uncover my artistic voice.
What do you think I am? Where should I focus? I’m excited to hear your thoughts.
What to Expect from IMAGE FRONTIERS 📆
This is a place to learn, share, and grow. Here’s what you can expect:
Bi-weekly posts featuring field stories, new work, and archived gems
Techniques and practices around shooting, editing, printing, and AI tools
Reflections on creative process, purpose, and building a voice
Notes between posts—quick thoughts, timely photos, and useful finds
Community connection through comments, discussion, and shared experiences
My goal is to foster honest growth without pressure. This is a space where laughter, feedback, and curiosity are welcome.
Let’s Build This Together 🗣️
This is for photographers who:
Hunger to learn and push their craft
Challenge habits and embrace critique
Get curious about gear, light, editing, and storytelling
Seek to express something deeper through images
So, where are you in your journey?
What’s your biggest challenge?
What makes your heart race when you hit the shutter?
Can we work together to improve our work, enjoy the journey and make 1+1=4?
Share in the comments or send me a note. I'd love to hear from you.
Final Frame 📸
I'm still figuring out who I am as a photographer. But I'm closer than ever—and with you here, I hope to find out. Let's make Image Frontiers a rising tide that lifts all boats.
See you in the next post.
David Rosen
Boston, MA
All images © David A. Rosen / Image Frontiers. These works are the sole property of the photographer. Please do not reproduce, share, or use without express written permission. For inquiries, contact: click@davidrosenphoto.com.
David, your photography is a true reflection of your personality: Witty, funny, sensible. through your photos, we can see what bring joy to your life, what is fascinating you, it's like a walk in your head, in your universe. I loved it all.
Great opening post David! Lots of great photos here. I'm looking forward to see how your photography develops and I've already seen change. You may be at the cusp of finding your own style. Constraining your environment (hope your leg is recovering well!) or your gear (using only one prime lens for a month?) may continue to push your photography forward.