Artistry in Ash: Capturing the Craft of EAD Woodworks
Photography has a unique ability to tell a story—not just in a single frame, but in the way moments come together to form a cohesive visual narrative. My recent shoot with EAD Woodworks for Portsmouth City Lifestyles was an exciting opportunity to document the full journey of craftsmanship, from raw materials to beautifully finished furniture.
A Shoot in Three Acts
This assignment was particularly interesting because it was actually three shoots in one. It started on a cold Maine morning, where I met Ed Szczepanik and one of his workers on a farm, cutting logs into lumber. From there, we moved into his workshop, capturing the intricate process of turning raw wood into handcrafted furniture. Finally, we ended at the showroom, where Ed’s wife, Shealea, showcases and sells their finished pieces. Each location brought its own challenges and opportunities—outdoor to indoor, factory to showroom. Over the course of four or five hours, I was able to see and document the entire transformation.
Crafting a Cohesive Visual Story
With such varied environments, my goal was to maintain a cohesive look through color and composition while still introducing enough variety to keep the article visually engaging. The rough textures of the workshop contrasted with the polished elegance of the showroom, but I sought to connect these spaces through lighting, framing, and detail shots that carried a sense of continuity throughout the series.
The Details That Made the Shoot
Nothing about this shoot was unexpected—but that’s what made it great. Everything was as cool as I hoped it would be. The massive wood-cutting machine was a sight to behold, and the tools Ed used—especially the monster hook for moving logs—were the kind of details that add personality and grit to a photo story. His workshop was filled with everything you’d want to see in a craftsman’s space—well-worn tools, half-finished projects, and the unmistakable scent of fresh-cut wood. Then, stepping into the showroom was like seeing the final chapter of the story, where Shealea displayed the beautifully crafted furniture, bringing the process full circle.
The Shot That Tells the Story
If there’s one image that encapsulates this shoot, it’s Ed standing with his hook, a pile of wood at his feet. It’s the perfect representation of his work—rugged, hands-on, and deeply connected to the process of creation. It embodies the story I wanted to tell: not just the end product, but the dedication, tools, and craft that make it all possible.
Why the Process Matters
At its core, this shoot wasn’t just about showcasing beautiful furniture—it was about the process. The journey of wood from tree to table is one of skill, patience, and tradition. Through these images, I wanted to highlight the steps, the tools, and the hands that bring each piece to life.
Looking back, I walked away from this shoot with a fantastic set of images that I couldn’t be more proud of. Capturing the story of EAD Woodworks was a reminder of why I love what I do—photography isn’t just about creating beautiful images, but about preserving the craftsmanship and dedication that make those images meaningful.
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