Damariscotta photographer Ronn Orenstein is exhibiting his work at Savory Maine Dining & Provisions in Damariscotta through Tuesday, Nov. 29.
Beginning with a career in New York City, Orenstein’s award-winning studio work spans more than 25 years. He spent 14 years as director of photography for the Hartz Mountain Corp. He was responsible for producing all of its imaging for packaging, marketing, point-of purchase, catalog, and public relations.
Orenstein has received numerous accolades from his peers for his commercial photography, along with recognition by Art Direction Magazine and the Society of American Graphic Design. He has written various articles for publications such as Photo District News and Studio Photographer Magazine. At the college level, Orenstein taught the techniques of conventional and digital-format photography.
In addition working on his present commercial assignments, Orenstein continues to find the pursuit of artistic photography challenging and therapeutic. Chasing the quality of natural light balances the control needed for studio setups.
Recently, Orenstein has been moving more into photography as art. Spending more time out of the studio has increased his appreciation for nature’s beauty and light. Capturing images can be elusive, yet satisfying. Orenstein finds separating chaos and clutter from the composition is the secret to successful photography.
“Some of the magic happens during the photographic process, then continues at the computer,” Orenstein said. The inherent initial attraction to the subject matter is then fine-tuned during post-processing. The opportunity is there to create variations to final images. Moods, colors, conversion to black-and-white images, and other techniques all play important roles for Orenstein’s images.
The combination of a strong image with successful post-processing is what draws the viewer to Orenstein’s photography. His satisfaction comes from knowing viewers have the chance for respite from their own hectic lives. Part storytelling, part mood-setting, Orenstein’s intention is to create emotional or intimate connections with his audience.
An opening reception for Orenstein will be held at Savory Maine from 3-5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 28. The restaurant will provide delectable sweet and savory finger foods, and wine and beer will be available.
Savory Maine Dining & Provisions is located at 11 Water St., Damariscotta. It is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., serving lunch and dinner. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The restaurant sources most of its food from Maine, and essentially all of it is organically grown or wild-harvested.
For more information, call 563-2111, like Savory Maine on Facebook, or go to savorymainedining.com.