‘ASPENS, NORTHERN NEW MEXICO’ BY ANSEL ADAMS (1958)

Driving with his wife and two assistants through the mountains of northern New Mexico, ANSEL ADAMS (1902–1984) chanced upon this aspen grove, its golden leaves bathed in sunlight. Getting out of the car, the photographers engaged in the pursuit of a perfect shot. Adams took pains to ensure that no sky was included in his composition as the brightness would have been distracting. His focus was on the long, irregular tree trunks. He initially considered color film but chose black and white, his preferred medium, so that he could enhance the contrast between the brilliant white bark and the forest shadows. The still day permitted a full second of exposure. (Aspen leaves shake in the slightest breeze.) Signed and numbered by the artist. ANSEL EASTON ADAMS stands as the preeminent landscape photographer of the last century and is among the most beloved photographers in US history. A disinterested and rebellious student, he proved an exceptional autodidact once his father withdrew him from