A Photo Exhibit by Reggie Forster, Shan Huang, and Dena Porter
Reception: June 1, 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Room 5

Reggie Forster. As a teenager, Reggie was intrigued by the gorgeous color landscape slide images his Uncle Teddy presented after family trips. He wondered about the processes needed to create such beauty, ached to be able to afford an SLR camera, and hoped that one day he’d show his uncle pictures just as beautiful.

Reggie’s first (Ricoh) SLR camera photographed his high school track team and street scenes around New York City. Self-taught, he most often used B&W film — learning how to develop negatives and print in his Queens, NY basement washroom.

“I love the spontaneity of street photography and the way shadows can momentarily transform streets and people. I am also drawn towards seascapes, landscapes, and sports car racing — with a nod towards the romantic cinematography of old auto racing and naval (WWII) movies,” Reggie says. “I’ve participated in workshops at the Maine Media School and with Alison Shaw, a wonderful New England photojournalist and Fine Arts photographer, who influences my use of color and separation.”

Reggie has been a member of the Loudoun Photography Club, the League of Reston Artists, Philadelphia Photo Arts Center and displays images in local Virginia venues. (IG @rwforster, www.reggieforsterphotos.com  rwforster@mac.com)

Shan Huang. “I’m an everyday guy who lives in the beautiful state of Virginia. I don’t consider myself a professional photographer as the word ‘photographer’ holds great meaning for me. Instead, I’m an enthusiastic hobbyist who loves capturing moments through photography, particularly focusing on nature and wildlife.”

Because Shan has always been an outdoor enthusiast and animal lover, photography seemed a natural fit for

his interests. “I enjoy hiking, stargazing, birdwatching, and traveling; our world is vast, and there’s so much to explore.” He acquired his first DSLR camera about 20 years ago when his son was born to preserve those precious moments of life. While those early “point-and-shoot” photos were good at the time, his passion for photography at a higher level began about eight years ago. “I sought to improve my skills, partly because my kids were no longer as willing to pose for me.”

What drives his passion for photography? “In our fast-paced lives, finding time to take and edit photos offers me much-needed tranquility and solitude. It allows me to find solace and escape from life’s challenges, if only for a moment.”

What does he gain from this hobby? “Each photo I take is a cherished snapshot of a moment in life that I can carry with me. Each edited picture represents my personal interpretation of that moment, which I can share with my family and friends. Striving to improve my photography skills gives me a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

And the best part? “I’ve connected with many like-minded individuals who share my passion, providing endless inspiration, encouragement, and camaraderie on this journey.”

(IG @by_shan, YouTube @by_shan, shanhuangphotography@gmail.com)

Dena Porter. Dena’s photography is informed by her career as a sociologist and an education administrator, especially when using reflections and shadows to capture overlooked moments in everyday urban living. “As an avid adventurer and athlete, I capture life and light wherever possible!”

Inspired by her father’s love of film photography, Dena studied photography at Maine Media Workshops (with Alison Shaw), the Smithsonian Institution, and the Cape Cod Arts Association. Her work has been exhibited in Asheville, North Carolina, New York City, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts and she has completed commissioned works for patrons along the East Coast.

Her photos were accepted into the MV Hospital Permanent Art Collection in 2022 and her work has been generously supported by the Martha’s Vineyard Cultural Council. Her clients include the Steamship Authority, Yankee Magazine, Lululemon, Martha’s Vineyard Arts & Ideas magazine, Edible Vineyard and Vineyard Visitor magazines. She is also a freelance photographer for the Martha’s Vineyard Times. (IG @denaporter www.denaporterphotography.com  denaporter7@gmail.com)

Please join Reggie, Shan and Dena on Saturday, June 1, noon to 3:00 p.m. in Room 5 at Reston Community Center Hunters Woods for an opening reception.