David Ross

Before I met Les, I met his photography. I was sitting in a large waiting room in Springfield waiting for my appointment. In front of me was a large, framed print of a field of flowers in springtime. It was beautiful. I just stared at it wondering who the photographer was who had captured the scene so beautifully. It was magical.

It wasn’t until I began joining local camera clubs (that exist, thanks to Les) that I met Les in person. This was the guy who took that photograph! Les was totally down to earth. There was no pretense, no ego that got in the way. He just enjoyed talking about photography, liked to help others, and showed me great kindness whenever he complimented me on my efforts. Les taught me how to frame a photograph and encouraged me both to continue making prints and to give them titles. (I love to print but coming up with titles continues to be my Achilles heel.) Whenever I would see Les’ work at a club meeting or at his home and gallery, it would motivate me to work harder. His influence continues to this day for when I am out with my camera I often think of Les. He was a very special artist as well as a wonderful, kind, and generous person. I feel privileged to have known him.