Active Light Photography | Mark Bohrer  
Mark Bohrer, Photography & Lighting Design

I discovered a classic Leica M3 camera in the basement of my house in 1969, and that inspired a life of photography and travel. I've photographed Anasazi ruins in the U.S. Southwest, Parisian architecture, drool-worthy food products, and public buildings in the West.

Human behaviors captivate me. That led to event photography and business portraiture. I also appreciate the color and textures of fine food, and the majestic appearance and utility of great architecture.

My engineering background and experience as a creative musician and bike race photographer combine in 'peak of the action' storytelling pictures you'll find very insightful. I go beyond the pictures to show a client's intent, the message and behavior behind the image.

I earned BSEE and MSEE degrees from the University of Illinois in Urbana/Champaign, and couldn't wait to move to the mountains west of the Mississippi. I wrote music and performed in rock bands for many years on the west coast when I wasn't designing analog chips for AMD, Linear Technology and others.

I began shooting pro mountain bike races in 1995. I added wildlife to my portfolio after discussions and seminars with wildlife photographer Moose Peterson. The New York Institute of Photography taught me about lighting and portraiture, and I began doing events, small business and architectural work in 2003. I've been influenced by the work and words of Galen Rowell, James Stansfield, and Kirk Tuck. Often-pointed comments from Canadian documentary photographer Ted Grant greatly improved my pictures. Thanks, Ted!

Forbes.com, Waterbrook Press/Random House, World Cup Supply, and Chick Magazine/Morrison Media have used my images, and they appear in many private collections. I've photographed and written features for Birder's World and LHSA Viewfinder. I've also photographed veterinarians with their patients at Berkeley Dog and Cat Hospital, and photographed food for developer Mattson.

  
 

Equipment I use