It is my belief that a photograph is not simply a recording of light, but instead a small glimpse into the photographer's mind.

I can only take a photograph of what my mind can comprehend. If I am not aware and informed of my surroundings, how can I possibly take photographs that have any feeling to them?

Based on this theory, I always work to immerse myself in understanding a location or subject. This means gathering factual information upfront from books and then devoting large amounts of time to observing and exploring in the field.

Exploration is the key to my process.

This is the time where I take everything I have learned in the past and everything I am currently experiencing and sculpt these ideas into my photographs.

A native of central Pennsylvania, Matt grew up surrounded by the Appalachian mountains. After graduating from The Pennsylvania State University with a B.A. in Integrative Arts, Matt traveled whenever he had the opportunity. He explored many places in the American West and went as far as the southern coast of New Zealand.

These travels ignited Matt's curiosity to better understand the natural world. Upon returning home, he set about exploring his native Appalachian hills and was delighted by the beauty so close to his home that he had never taken the time to discover.

When not out in the wilds searching for his next photograph, Matt can be found in the mountains biking the local singletrack in the summer and traipsing about on his skis during the colder months.