“I endeavor to create visually compelling images that evoke emotion and an appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounds us.”-R. Hirsch
Trained academically as a biologist and natural historian, Robb Hirsch developed an intimate relationship with the natural world. This connection was established early during annual childhood visits to the Sierra Nevada, particularly Yosemite National Park, exploring and developing a sense of oneness with this magical place. He established a career as a field biologist, working for United States Geological Survey, California State Parks and several private firms, focusing primarily on threatened and endangered species. Robb originally gave slide shows to a wide variety of groups, utilizing his photography as a tool to inform others about the natural world and the importance of wild places. His passion became a career when he realized there was a market for his images and teaching ability.
In 2002, Robb and his wife started Mountain Sage, a combination art gallery, coffee and teahouse and plant nursery/gardens, in Groveland, CA just outside Yosemite. Several rooms of the historic 1860’s era house are dedicated as gallery space, displaying large framed prints. His photography is also on display at the gift shop of the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite Valley and online at robbhirschphoto.com. In 2007 one of his images was named a winner in the Nature’s Best, Windland Rice Smith International Nature Photography Competition, one of the most prestigious worldwide contests. His images have since appeared in Mono Lake Committee Calendars, Sierra Seasons Magazine, Discovery Channel Documentaries, textbooks, and Sierra Club Engagement Calendars.
Robb prefers to photograph away from the crowds, often visiting previously scouted locations off the beaten path. Photography is part of the wilderness experience for him, and by spending considerable time exploring, scouting and waiting for the right light, he becomes more in tune with the area, ultimately culminating in more evocative images.
Robb works very carefully in the field with techniques to properly capture the moment, minimizing time needed in front of a computer to “fix” problems. He enjoys shooting everything from wildlife to wildflowers, from grand landscapes to tiny abstracts. Robb’s images are known for their compelling subjects, careful compositions and fine light.
