What a wild time in the world, in technology, art and in photography. My Dearest Luminous Landscape Community, As I sit to pen this heartfelt note, it is with a sense of both nostalgia and hopeful confidence that I announce my intention to gracefully step back from The Luminous Landscape, the photographic resource and community that has been a beacon for over 24 years. This endeavour, so close to my heart, family and personal story was founded and helmed by my father, Michael Reichmann, whose passion, vision, and dedication made it a leading redline for digital photography, tech, process, philosophy, approach and community across the world, particularly in the realm of landscape photography.
On my father, penned by my mother Teya: https://luminous-landscape.com/founders-page/
The era in which The Luminous Landscape emerged was one marked by the synchronous rise of the internet and digital photography. In this swiftly evolving landscape, our platform provided, and has continued to provide, a guiding light, offering insights, techniques, and a vibrant space for discourse, learning and a vast but tight community for photographers and enthusiasts navigating the rapidly evolving world of digital imaging. Over the years, it has been a privilege to witness the acceleration of technology, artistry in conjunction with this, professional careers and the ever-expanding horizons of digital creativity, as well as to see our community members share their boundless open minded talent and passion.
As I reflect on this, I cannot help but recognize my limitations and the need for a new chapter to unfold. The demands of my burgeoning film career, the imminent release of my upcoming book in 2024, and the joys of parenthood require and deserve my full attention. It is with a bittersweet sense of responsibility that I recognize the need for a new voice, perhaps even the voice of the community itself, to now lead and nurture the site, infusing it with fresh energy and perspectives, while honouring its remarkable legacy.
To each and every one of you who has contributed, engaged, and supported The Luminous Landscape over the years, I extend my deepest appreciation and respect. Your passion and dedication have been the lifeblood of this community, and it is your tireless enthusiasm, complex voices and takes on how to build our site, that has allowed this space to thrive and become a source of inspiration for countless individuals. As I process all of this, I am mostly just thrilled at the prospect of witnessing The Luminous Landscape soar to new heights, to see it rejuvenated and reinvigorated while retaining its heart and soul. As I envisage the myriad possibilities that lie ahead, I am encouraged to imagine many of the contributors and authors, our webmaster and other key players in our site’s long success continue to animate this space that many of you call home online.
In the near future, more information will be shared about the next steward of The Luminous Landscape, ensuring that the transition is smooth and in keeping with the spirit of our community. Rest assured that the future of this beloved sanctuary is in capable hands, and I am confident that its legacy will continue to flourish in ways that will undoubtedly exceed our imaginings.
Something fresh is coming. If you’re wondering if the site will retain it’s focus on digital photography techniques, landscape-centric work, tech and community- it will!
I’ll be here to steward this transition. The gallery and other new components will be integrated into this shift. My fathers award and bursary remains alive through https://www.photolucida.org/category/michael-reichmann-project-grant/
And this years winner has been announced!: https://www.photolucida.org/2023-michael-reichmann-grant-recipients-announced/
In closing, I send each and every one of you my love and gratitude. I know we all celebrate the magnificent legacy of my father, Michael Reichmann, whose pioneering spirit and unwavering commitment will continue to illuminate our paths as we journey forward. With heartfelt warmth and my gratitude.
Josh Reichmann
December 2023