Interview: EJ Dove
EJ Dove is a large-format black-and-white film photographer based in the Pacific Northwest. Working primarily in Oregon, he uses a 4×5 view camera and traditional darkroom processes to create silver gelatin prints that explore the character of the natural landscape. His work is shaped by an interest in light, shadow, atmosphere and the quiet tension between the land and the passing of time.
Outside of high school photography classes, EJ is self taught. Working entirely through analog processes, he emphasizes tonal depth, fine detail and the material qualities of the photographic print. His photographs reflect an ongoing exploration of the landscape as both a physical place and an emotional experience.
Since returning to photography in 2026, EJ has exhibited in group shows in Portland, Oregon, and has been published in fine art photography publications nationally and internationally. His work has also recently received an Honorable Mention from Analog Sparks.
“Growing up in Alaska gave me direct experience with the power of quiet darkness and the foreboding indifference of the natural world. ”
What was your journey into becoming a photographer?
My journey into photography began in high school, where I was fortunate enough to have a few very engaging teachers, as well as access to a darkroom. I wanted to pursue a college degree in photography but my family was unable to afford the tuition. Photography has always been my passion, but I spent much of my life pursuing other endeavors. In 2026, during a particularly difficult time, I returned to photography with the intent to photograph the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Using a large format film camera, and traditional analog darkroom processes has provided me with an opportunity to explore both inward and outward at a slow and intentional pace.
What role does the natural world play in your work?
I view the natural world as a source of confrontation and mystery. Growing up in Alaska gave me direct experience with the power of quiet darkness and the foreboding indifference of the natural world. I try to capture these elements, as well as how I perceive landscapes emotionally at the time of making each photograph.
What is your creative process?
My creative process is largely driven by my desire to understand, interpret, and communicate my emotional response to landscapes. Using a large format camera is often tedious, however, the deliberate, slow processes involved require me to slow down, and spend a significant amount of time waiting for the right moment, both before and after the shutter is opened.
I have a tendency to make long exposures, when possible, as I enjoy inviting often unseen elements into the frame. I do all of the darkroom processes myself, in my basement darkroom.
Is there anything you’re currently working on or looking forward to in your work that you’d like to share more about?
I have just finished my first collection, entitled Fallow:Oregon - The Sleeping Land, which explores the subconscious language of land at rest, observing landscapes that seem to exist somewhere between waking and dreaming. I am in the early process of developing my next project, which will continue to be landscape-based, and in the Pacific Northwest.
All images copyright of EJ Dove.
For more, follow EJ Dove on Instagram or visit http://ejdove.com