I have always followed my passions, which have led me to some interesting experiences. I was a window washer in Chicago. I harvested watermelons in Arizona’s blazing sun. I was a photographer’s assistant in New York City. I spent a carnival season delivering and setting up tents in New Orleans. I am almost finished with a master’s degree in Leisure and Tourism Studies from Bowling Green State University.

Professionally, I have worked as a staff photojournalist at newspapers in Ohio, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Arizona. My images have been published in numerous publications including The Oxford American, Photo District News, Daylight Magazine, The Sun, Ceramics Monthly and Phoenix Magazine.

I spent seven winter seasons searching for and photographing the contents of abandoned homes. The Ohio Arts Council awarded me an Individual Artist Fellowship for this work, which I call Archaeology of the American Dream.

My images have been exhibited throughout the country and are included in both public and private collections. My handmade artists flipbooks are part of Washington University’s Rare Books collection and Printed Matter in New York City represents me.

I believe, however, my most noteworthy accomplishment is unquantifiable. As university photographer for Bowling Green State University, my images market higher education. To me, an education is vitally important, and if an image I created helps persuade someone to further his or her education, then I have done some good, even though I have no way of knowing who benefited.

— Brad Phalin