01 - Ansel Adams, Mt. Williamson from Manzanar, California

Ansel Adams
American, 1902–1984

Mt. Williamson from Manzanar, California
1944
Gelatin silver print
Museum Permanent Collection, NEHMA
1984.1703

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Ansel Adams is one of the most acclaimed photographers in American history. He created his own system of exposure to ensure perfect detail and contrast in his photographs. The complicated, "zone system" that he developed is still studied and used by photographers today. Adams was not only famous for his precision but also his patience. He was known for saying "you don’t take a photograph, you make it".   

Ansel Adams also became an activist for conservation, lobbying in Washington D.C. to protect the wilderness where he found his inspiration.  His photographs of the Sierra Nevada Mountains were said to have influenced president Roosevelt to create Kings Canyon National Park.   

Mt Williamson from Manzanar, pictured here, shows both his patience and precision. The perfect moment is captured as light spills out of the clouds. His rugged rock subjects are complimented by the extensive range of tones the zone system is famous for.