I've recently become a big fan of Chicago photographer Jonathan Parker, so asked him if I could run an extended series of his images here at the site today, and if he might send us a few thoughts about himself and the type of work he does. He graciously agreed, and here's what he had to say:

"My foray into photography began with a simple kodak point and shoot in 2004 and upon getting a dslr in 2007, I made it a personal goal to learn more about the art of photography and documenting the environment around me. From there my interest has grown exponentially with photography in general becoming a great source of enjoyment in my life. With regards to my particular interests, I do not necessarily prefer or lean towards any certain type or genre of photography. However, I do have a softspot for black and white in that it tends to have a certain visual weight and elicit a particular response that I like. Also, having lived in Chicago for quite a while now, I have an affinity for the city and what it provides photographically. I love the complexity of the urban environment and the natural beauty that exists in the city due to the nature of it's structures, people and geographic location. As for personal style, I generally seek to present a moment as if it were a snapshot in one's mind, a memory, rather than a staged event. I want the visual experience to be dynamic as if a scene is evolving and my photo is simply one frame in it's evolution."

Thanks, Jonathan! Don't forget, he has not only a Flickr account but also a nice personal blog where he sometimes writes in more detail about various shots. I encourage you to check them both out whenever you have a chance. If you're a photographer yourself, by the way, and would like to be considered for a mini-feature here, by all means drop me a line at cclapcenter [at] gmail.com.