Dean Hanson works in the tradition of early 20^th century photographers in the creation of each gelatin silver print. He uses a film camera, hand-held; he photographs in available light, and utilizes classic darkroom techniques. Most of his negatives are made using a medium format camera although occasionally he uses a Leica 35 mm.

While selecting the subject to record is crucial, of equal importance to Hanson is printing. He says that an image is captured with a camera; a photograph is created in the darkroom. Hanson believes the photographer’s eye and skill in influencing the subtle shades of light and dark are what creates a fine photograph.

When making a portrait Hanson works collaboratively with the individual. He does not direct him or her in any way; he simply takes advantage of an opportunity for a photograph. Although he has photographed many individuals, Hanson has been fortunate to develop a close association with two extraordinary women photographing each for more than a decade.

Hanson is known for his distinctive portraits; however, his work encompasses his interest in international travel with images of people, landscapes, and architecture, taken not only in the United States but also in Great Britain, Europe, and islands of the South Pacific. Hanson’s photographs have been shown in more than twenty solo exhibitions in galleries the United States and France.