Inside Infrared with Shelley Vandegrift
Where do I begin ..... Shelley Vandegrift is a gifted photographer whose lens captures the world through a blend of curiosity and wanderlust. Her keen eye transforms everyday scenes into extraordinary moments, offering a fresh, unique perspective that invites viewers to see the world as she does—full of wonder, adventure, and hidden beauty. She masterfully captures the world through both infrared and color photography, creating stunning images that reveal hidden layers of beauty. Shelley is also an exceptional teacher, sharing her expertise in software with patience and clarity, helping others unlock their creative potential. On top of all that, we both share a love for ice cream, laughter, and puppies – simple pleasures that makes our friendship even sweeter!
"The need to create is a basic human drive. Whether expressed in the solving of a simple problem or the crafting of a beautifully complex work of art, it is essential to the happiness and well-being of each of us." - Shelley Vandegrift
Below begins the chat we had together.
L: Where are you from? How does it affect your photography today?
S: I grew up in a small town in southeast Texas, with about 19,000 people, tucked away 30 minutes from Louisiana and the Gulf of Mexico. It was one of those hot, humid, and sleepy towns where time seemed to slow down. Since there wasn’t much to do outside, I spent most of my free time indoors, diving into creative hobbies. Drawing, embroidering, painting, and even building things from the leftover wood from my dad’s projects were some of my favorite ways to pass the time.
When I was around 10, my dad turned one of our bedrooms into a darkroom. He handed me an old camera and taught me how to process film. I quickly fell in love with the creative process of crafting an image in that dimly lit space. That passion for photography only grew stronger as digital photography came into the picture.
L: What is your favorite time of day to create?
S: When it comes to shooting, I’m game for any time of day—just not early mornings. One of the perks of infrared photography is that I don’t have to drag myself out of bed at the crack of dawn. But honestly, I’m ready whenever inspiration strikes. I keep a spare camera and lenses in my car, so I’m always prepared if something catches my eye.
As for post-processing, evenings are my sweet spot. Most nights, you’ll find me relaxing with my computer on my lap, just playing around and seeing what I can create.
L: What motivates you to create?
S: What a great question! Honestly, I’ve never really stopped to think about it. Creating has always felt like a natural part of who I am, almost like a necessity. If I go too long without making something, I start to feel this deep craving. There’s just something about the process that feeds my soul.
L: How do you develop an idea from beginning to end?
S: I rarely pre-plan my ideas—it’s more of an instinctual process for me, almost like the work reveals itself as I go. Michelangelo once said he saw the angel in the marble and just carved until he set it free. That’s pretty much how I feel too. I might start with a vague idea, like wanting to create a composite with a bird, but once I begin pulling everything together, it’s as if the piece starts arranging itself. I am a huge believer in asking, “what if.”
L: Tell me a little about your recent work.
S: For the past 18 months or so, I’ve been really into creating manipulated images, especially composites. I love taking my photos and turning them into stories straight from my imagination. My teaching has been occupying so much time that I don’t have a defined project underway. It is all creating for the sake of creating.
L: I know you work a lot in Infrared. Do you have a favorite color? How does it show up in your work?
S: I’m absolutely obsessed with color. My home is filled with bright, mostly abstract art in shades of blue, yellow, and orange, with plenty of reds and purples too. That’s why I’m so drawn to images like yours that use color so beautifully. The funny thing is, when I’m creating, I keep finding myself pulled back to monochrome. I guess my creative spirit just sees things more clearly in those limited tones.
L: How did you move into color from Infrared?
S: I started out with color, mostly focusing on landscapes. But when I first picked up an infrared camera about 10 years ago, it completely blew me away. Seeing the world in such a different way really captivated me, and since then, I’ve rarely touched a regular camera. Lately, though, I’ve been feeling a pull back toward color. I’m not exactly sure where it’s leading me, but I’m excited to see where the journey goes
L: What has been your special place to travel and how has it inspired your work.
S: For most of my life, every spare penny has gone toward travel. I’ve made it to all seven continents and visited over 75 countries, each with its own unique charm. But Antarctica was probably the most breathtaking. I’m drawn to drama, and everywhere you turn in Antarctica, there’s this incredible, dramatic beauty that just captivates you.
Japan, though, has had the biggest impact on my work. I absolutely love that country and have returned several times. The simplicity and flow of its natural beauty, along with the elegance of its culture, really resonate with me. I try to bring that same sense of simplicity and balance into my images.
L: How do you make yourself happy in your art today?
S: These days, I make myself happy in my art by giving myself permission to explore and experiment. I’m letting myself go far afield, trying out all sorts of processes and techniques. It’s about enjoying the journey and seeing where different paths take me.
L: What are your goals for your future work?
S: I’ve never really been one to focus on a specific body of work—each image is like its own little story. Lately, though, I’m feeling a pull to start a project. I’m just waiting for a clear idea to hit me. LOL
L: What artists inspire you?
S: Michael Kenna was probably my first photographic infatuation. I am still smitten with his work. Laurie Klein, who I am fortunate enough to count as a mentor and friend. Others photographers are Jamie Heiden, Terri Gold, Xuan Ng, Dariusz Klimczak Burnstine, Tami Bone, Nevada Weir, Chris Friel, Manuela Thames. Painters: Monet, Cezanne, Van Gogh, and Matisse.
L: What is your favorite song to sing in the car?
S: Whatever is on Sirius’ Mosaic channel. I am pretty tone deaf, so it only happens when I am riding solo.
In Shelley's Words... "Like many photographers, I feel far more comfortable behind the camera than in front of it. To challenge myself, I enrolled in Leanne’s self-portraiture class. Leanne is an inspiring and motivating instructor who skillfully helps students expand their creative boundaries. Drawing from her rich background in the performing arts, she designs lectures and assignments that effortlessly guide students to new heights of creativity. This class was a transformative experience, and I whole-heartedly recommend Leanne’s workshops to those seeking growth in their artistic practice."
All Images are © Shelley Vandegrift
Visit her website for workshops and art.
https://www.vandegriftphotography.com/
Instagram: @vandegriftphotography