Martin Gerdin: Glass Trout and the Art of Fly Fishing

From Wild Fish to Glass Art: Photographing the Work of Martin Gerdin

A Fly Fishing Artist Who Honors the Fish

If you spend much time around fly fishing and have an appreciation for art, then you’ve heard the name Martin Gerdin. His hand-blown glass fish are more than just decorative pieces, they’re immaculate tributes. To the fish. To the places they live. To the hours spent chasing them in silence with and without victory. When I had the opportunity to photograph Martin for a recent magazine story, I knew right away this wasn’t just another artist profile. It was a chance to document someone who truly understands what makes fly fishing special.

Photographing the Process Behind the Glass

Martin’s Gerdin’s studio is located in Crawford, a small town in a remote section of southwest Colorado, which tells you a bit about him already. He doesn’t need the fancy street facing storefront, because for him, it’s only about the work. And that’s obvious seeing him in action. He cares. Sure, creating stunning glass blown fish is how he earns a living, but it’s also his passion. Glass blowing is a very delicate art, especially when dealing with a pieces the size of Gerdin’s fish. There are so many steps along the way that can cause each one to be ruined. And when that happens all is lost. Back to the beginning. As a photographer intent on documenting a process that cannot be faked, the only option is to be a fly on the wall and not get in the way. Martin and his team are constantly moving, back and forth from the work bench to the furnace, over and over. For this shoot I wanted to use strobes to light the scene in a way that wouldn’t draw attention to the light itself. Rather as more of a subtle enhancement. So the hard part was finding those places within the studio that the strobes and light stands wouldn’t impede his flow. Which was difficult at times, but he graciously told me when they needed to be moved and everything worked out just fine in the end. To be honest, there were times when I just wanted to sit back and watch. Looking at Gerdin’s work on his website or Instagram is impressive, but to see a final piece come to life before your eyes, is something else altogether.

**If you think creating glass trout for a living is all glamour, think again. It’s well over a hundred degrees in Martin’s studio when the furnace is running.

Where My Work Intersects with His

Martin Gerdin doesn’t create custom glass trout for fly fishing collectors by accident. It started out of his rabid obsession with the sport itself. The assignment to photograph Martin at work also didn’t happen by accident. As a photographer, it’s very important to me that the people and stories I work on, are ones I truly care about and have an interest in. So I pitched the idea to a magazine because I was a fan of his work and am also violently obsessed with fly fishing, which has led to a somewhat unhealthy amount of time on the river with both a fly rod and a camera. Like Martin, it’s my happy place.

See the Full Collection

Want to see more?
You can view my full collection of fly fishing photography prints [here]. Each image is available for purchase, and select pieces are also available for editorial or commercial licensing. If you’re a collector, or simply someone who loves the water, I think you’ll find something that speaks to you.

Photograph of a glass brown trout by Martin Gerdin

Martin Gerdin - Glass Fish Artist

Photograph of a glass artist creating custom art for fly fishing collectors

Fine art glass fish artist Martin Gerdin at work in his studio in Crawford, Colorado

Photograph of a custom glass shark being made by an artist in his studio

Glass fish art

A team of glass blowers creating fly fishing art

Fly fishing artist at work

A glass shark being made at Martin Gerdin's studio in Crawford, Colorado

Hand blown glass shark

Photograph of a hand blown glass shark being made

Photograph of an arist creating a hand blown glass shark

Photograph of Martin Gerdin creating a custom glass brown trout for a fly fishing collector

Hand blown glass brown trout art

Photograph of a glass artist creating a brown trout for a fly fishing collector

Photograph of glass trout being made

Photograph of a glass blown brown trout going into the furnace

A glass blown brown trout going into the furnace

Fine Art Basketball Hoop Photography Featured in Courtside Candy by Gestalten

Basketball Art + Culture Book - Courtside Candy by Gestalten

Where Streetball Becomes Sculpture

The basketball hoops I photographed in Courtside Candy weren’t made in factories or sponsored by brands. They were made by an artist (Nick Ansom), welded together in backyards, bolted to alleyway walls, and patched together with whatever materials were around; bike rims, plywood scraps, milk crates, rusted steel. In Venice Beach, this isn’t junk. It’s basketball art.

Each hoop reflects a specific personality. Sometimes playful, sometimes gritty, always creative. They’re part of a larger story about the culture of the game. These aren’t just functional backboards; they’re sculptures. And like all good art, they say something about the people who built them.

Venice Beach: A Legacy of Basketball and Creativity

Venice Beach has always been more than a postcard, it’s one of the most iconic basketball communities in the country. It’s where pickup games turn into performances, and where the court is as much a canvas as the chaos and mural-covered buildings around it.

Courtside Candy lives in that space between sport and expression. The hoops in this series represent the DIY spirit that runs through Venice’s streetball scene. They speak to resourcefulness, style, and the love of the game without any need for polish or perfection. In a place where surfing, skateboarding, painting, music, and basketball all collide, these hoops feel right at home.

About the Courtside Candy Book

The Courtside Candy book is a visual archive of this subculture, a historic collection representing the culture of basketball, celebrating the infinite ways the game has been translated into art by people all over the world.

Each piece unique on its own, but collectively, and along with the beautiful writing by Ben Osborne, the book tells a different and vitally important story about the games influence.

Click here to view and purchase available prints or contact me directly if you’d like a basketball print of any photograph not already listed.

Fine art sports book about the culture of basketball
Photograph of handmade basketball hoop in Venice Beach, part of a series featured in Gestalten’s Courtside Candy book

Part basketball hoop, part sculpture. This Venice Beach alley setup is a reminder of how the game adapts to its surroundings

Artistic street basketball installation in Los Angeles representing urban basketball culture

One of the many hoops that reimagine basketball as public art, photographed in the back alleys of Venice

Photograph of handmade basketball hoop built from found objects in a Venice Beach alley, featured in Courtside Candy by Gestalten

Basketball hoop made from found materials, photographed as part of an international basketball art book

Creative basketball hoop sculpture photographed in Los Angeles for an international basketball culture photography book

This photograph is part of a published series that explores the creative edge of basketball culture in America’s urban spaces

Basketball culture photography print from a series featured in Courtside Candy, capturing urban creativity through sport

Equal parts sculpture and sport, this Venice Beach hoop transforms function into form, blurring the line between art installation and basketball court

More than just a place to shoot around - this hoop turns a back alley in Venice Beach into a public statement about the game’s reach and creativity

From the streets of LA to the pages of Courtside Candy, these handmade hoops carry a different kind of history.

Photographs of Albany, New York - Historical Landmarks

Albany, New York Photography Gallery

West Sand Lake; a one stoplight town just outside of Albany, NY is where I was born and raised. As a kid I didn’t care much for it or any of the surrounding area. There was nothing to see and nothing to do. Being 2.5 hours from “The City” made my outlook even worse and stoked a desire to be there, where it was all happening 24/365.  During college we had a damn good time making a mockery out of just about every bar between Albany and Troy. That seemed like all the place was good for though, and by 25 I reached a breaking point and decided to move with a friend to San Diego - a part of the country that couldn’t be any more opposite from home. That was about 20 years ago and I’ve loved living in different parts of the West ever since, if you don’t count one skid mark of a year in Raleigh, North Carolina. Either way, the desire to see family and friends always brings me back to the Capital Region. 

Maybe it’s just age and the ability to slowly pull one's head out of one's ass, but my opinion of Capitoland has done a 180. In fact, it’s dawned on me that most of the towns I’m attracted to photographing during road trips across America, remind me of home. And now that I’ve stopped to look around a little, it’s easy to see why locals take pride in Capitaland. It’s got a gritty unapologetic character. A slower pace of living. Good food. Parks. Open spaces. The River. History. And easy access to the Adirondacks. 

Over the recent holidays I spent some time shooting in downtown Albany. The weather was incredible. For shooting, not so much for living. A thick blanket of fog covered the entire city. It was great. I walked around for two hours drooling over the architecture, some of which isn’t so different from buildings you might see in a European city. Just about the time the freezing rain started and I thought about calling it a day, a guy walked out of an apartment, looked at me taking photographs and asked “where are you from?” I lifted my hand and pointed to the ground.  To which he responded “oh, I was gonna say, there ain’t nothing to see here”. 

Why Choose Black and White Photography Prints?

Black and white photography captures the essence of Albany’s historic architecture by emphasizing textures, contrasts, and intricate details. Stripped of color, these images highlight the interplay of light and shadow, drawing attention to the craftsmanship and history embedded in each structure. A black and white print not only enhances your home or office décor but also serves as a conversation starter and a connection to Albany’s rich heritage.

Iconic Albany Landmarks for Your Collection

  1. New York State Capitol
    This 19th-century architectural marvel is a favorite among art lovers. Its Romanesque and Renaissance Revival elements make it a striking subject for black and white photography. A print of the Capitol captures its grandeur and serves as a tribute to Albany’s political and cultural significance.

  2. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
    This Gothic Revival cathedral is a masterpiece of design. Black and white photography emphasizes its towering spires, intricate arches, and timeless beauty, making it an inspiring piece for your collection.

3. The Empire State Plaza

Featuring the dramatic contrast of its sleek architecture against the timeless sky, this artwork showcases the Plaza's iconic Egg and Corning Tower in unique detail. Perfect for art collectors, Albany enthusiasts, or anyone seeking sophisticated décor, this monochromatic print adds a touch of elegance and historical depth to any space. Bring the heart of Albany into your home or office with this timeless piece celebrating one of New York's architectural treasures.

4. New York State Museum

Capturing the museum's bold architecture and timeless design, this monochromatic artwork accentuates the intricate details and dramatic lines that define this cultural landmark, celebrating the legacy of New York's oldest museum.

5. Corning Tower

As the tallest structure in Albany, the Corning Tower is a modern marvel with historic significance. Black and white photography beautifully captures its sleek, geometric design and the reflections that dance off its façade. A print of the Corning Tower adds a bold, contemporary touch to any art collection while honoring Albany’s dynamic skyline.

How Black and White Prints Transform Your Space

  • Sophisticated Décor: Monochromatic art complements a variety of interior styles, from modern minimalist to vintage-inspired.

  • Connection to History: Owning a print of Albany’s landmarks brings the city’s history into your home, creating a meaningful connection to its storied past.

  • Unique Gifts: These prints make thoughtful gifts for art collectors, history buffs, or anyone with ties to Albany.

Tips for Selecting the Perfect Print

  • Choose Landmarks with Personal Significance: Whether it’s the Capitol’s grandeur or the nostalgic charm of the The Egg, select prints that resonate with your personal connection to Albany.

  • Consider Framing Options: A beautifully framed black and white print elevates its aesthetic appeal and ensures its longevity.

Visit my profile on Saatchi Art to purchase fine art photography prints of Albany, NY

Black and white photography print of the New York State Capital Building in Albany, NY

Black and white photograph of the New York State Capital Building in Albany, NY

Classic black and white photograph of Albany, NY

Black and white photograph of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Albany, New York

Photography print of the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Albany, NY

Empire State Plaza wall art

Photograph of the Alfed E. Smith Building in Albany, NY

Albany, NY wall art

New York State Capital Building photography print - black and white

Historic black and white photograph of The Egg in Albany, NY

Photograph of the New York State Education Department building in Albany, NY

Photograph of the George Washington statue in Albany, NY

Photography print of Albany, NY

Black and white photograph of Albany, NY architecture

Photography print of the iconic state capital building in Albany, NY

San Diego Barbershop

Traditional Barbershop in San Diego, CA

Johnny Lovato’s Barbershop

Back in 2011 I began photographing traditional barbershops as a way to preserve a dying piece of American culture and cornerstone of every local community. These relics were all going away due to the barber passing on, retiring, or being pushed out of their shop to make way for a higher paying tenant. Last week I drove by Johnny Lovato’s Barbershop in San Diego and was sad to see that it had changed hands, been gutted, and reopened as a soulless salon. No offense to the current owner, but it’s sad to see decades of memories stripped away. A barbers shop is his second home and a place that he’s spent a life forging relationships and community. And that’s what this body of work is all about - documenting these time capsules so their legacy can live on. These photographs are from 2011 when Johnny was still cutting and later in 2019 when his son had taken over. I remember Johnny being a very kind person. He loved the bird in his shop and got a lot of enjoyment from feeding it Cheetos.

If you’d like to support this project you can do so by purchasing a copy of my photography book on traditional barbershops in all 50 states of the USA.

And contact me directly if you’d like a photography prints of any barbershops from this series.

Photograph of a traditional barber in San Diego, CA

Johnny Lovato's Barbershop - Point Loma, CA

Old school barbershop in San Diego, CA

San Diego Barbershop

Photograph of a barber feeding his pet bird in San Diego, California

Johnny Lovato - Barber

Portrait of a San Diego barber

Portrait of a San Diego barber standing behind his chair

Photograph of a rotary telephone inside an old school barbershop

Rotary phone in a traditional barbershop

Photograph of a barber sitting in his chair

Photograph of an old school barber in San Diego, CA

Traditional barbershop in San Diego, CA

Photograph of a customer getting their hair cut at a barbershop in San Diego, Ca

Timeless Paris: Fine Art Street Photography Prints of Candid Moments and Iconic Architecture

Paris, France Photography gallery - Bring Home the Soul of Paris

Paris is a city that pulses with life at every corner, where history, culture, and vibrant street scenes seamlessly intertwine. As a street photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the raw, unposed moments that define the everyday life of Parisians—moments that might otherwise slip by unnoticed. My photography focuses on real people, caught in the midst of their daily routines, with the backdrop of Paris’ timeless architecture adding layers of depth and context to each scene.

Each image is a study in contrasts—the soft, fleeting moments of humanity set against the enduring stone façades and intricate details of the city's buildings. From the bustling streets near the Seine to the quiet corners tucked away in Montmartre, these candid moments provide a unique glimpse into the heart of Paris. The juxtaposition of people moving through centuries-old streets, passing under arches, or strolling beside iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, creates a visual narrative of Paris as both an ever-changing metropolis and a city deeply rooted in history.

These fine art photography prints bring Paris to life, offering collectors the opportunity to own a piece of the city’s essence. Each print captures the quiet grace and unspoken stories of the people who live in and visit this iconic city, framed by the grandeur of its architecture. Whether it’s a passerby in a café, a couple lost in conversation near a bridge, or an artist sketching the skyline, these photographs evoke a sense of place, time, and emotion.

For those who appreciate the fusion of human stories and architectural beauty, these prints make a powerful addition to any art collection. They not only celebrate the visual charm of Paris but also its cultural soul—embodying the unique energy and timeless allure of the city.

Contact me directly about photography prints of Paris, France for your home, office or commercial space. The images are also available for editorial/commercial licensing - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Fine Art Photography - Paris, France

The Seine River - Paris France

Paris Street Photography

Paris Street Photography

Street Photography - Paris, France

Photograph of a couple embracing on the street in Paris, France

Photograph of two restaurant waiters in Paris, France

Cathedral surrounded by homes in Paris, France

Photograph of two women drinking at a cafe in Paris, France

Paris Fashion Photography

Paris Street Fashion

Photograph of a well dressed woman walking in Paris, France

The Basilica of Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

Hat shopping in Paris, France

Riding the subway in Paris, France

Parisian bicycle

Paris Fashion

Drinking wine and eating cheese in Paris, France

Looking at a Monet painting in the Louvre

Shadow the Notre Dame Cathedral on buildings along the Siene River in Paris, France

The Griffin Museum of Photography

Photography Museum - Winchester, Massachusetts

13+ years now I’ve been photographing traditional barbershops in all 50 states of the USA and the layers continue to peel. In the beginning it was just a thing to do because I love barbershops. Then as time went on I felt responsible for documenting them before they all disappeared. Now, in 2024, I see the collective body of work as a historical document of the barbers and shops that served as a staple in their respective communities for 30, 40, 50, 60+ years. On the surface the theme of this project is about a place to get your haircut. Really though, it’s about community, friendship, and human connection. So I’m honored to announce that a selection of these photographs will be shown at the Griffin Museum of Photography in Winchester, MA for their upcoming group show “Vision(ary) which focuses on communities, cultures, and environments. Please go check out the show as well as the other great exhibitions from June 7th-September 27th.

Click here to purchase a copy of Barbershops of America (photo book) and HERE to purchase prints from this series.

Exhibition at the Griffin Museum of Photography

Barbershops of America at The Griffin Museum of Photography

Oregon Landscape Photography Prints

Oregon Wall Art - Landscape Photography

Oregon is a special place. Not just as a part of America, but of the world. It’s truly unique, with a vibe you can’t find anywhere else. Going through these images has been a lot of fun, revisiting past road trips through the state, as well as a gentle reminder that it’s been far too long since seeing that magical place. The photographs stir up great memories of being on the road with Mojo. One in particular several years back in the middle of winter. We were driving late at night on a backroad through the Cascade Range. No towns. No street lights. Nothing. It was freezing cold and the entire landscape was covered in a fresh blanket of snow. At some point I started feeling a very bizarre energy that was totally unexplainable, but it persisted long enough to make me think. “Pulsing” is the only way I can describe it. The sensation continued for a while, so I pulled over, got out of the truck and just stood there. There were no signs of civilization at all. And after my eyes adjusted to the darkness, I could see massive snow covered peaks on all corners of the horizon that seemed to be glowing. One of them was Mt. Hood, not sure what the rest of them were. Either way, I’d never experienced anything like it before or after that day. I was totally in awe at the sight and energy they were putting off. And to see so many prominent peaks so far away all at once, seemed totally surreal. All I could do was stand there and take it in. No images were made that night, but it’s a memory that will never leave me.

Click here to check out my American Road Trip photography book

Send an email if you’d like any of my Oregon wall art for your home, office, or commercial space - rob@robhammerphotography.com

Mt. Hood Landscape Photography Print

Mt. Hood Wall Art

Photography print of Lake Albert in Oregon

Lake Albert - Oregon - Photography Print

Photography of an old barn in Oregon

Oregon Photography

Photography print of a country road in Oregon

Country Road in Oregon

Photography of Seneca, Oregon

Seneca, Oregon

Lake Albert Oregon Landscape Wall Art

Lake Albert, Oregon - Wall Art

Photography of Highway 395 going through a beautiful section of Oregon at sunset near Lake Albert

Highway 395 - Oregon

Photograph of country roads leading to Mt. Hood in Oregon

Mt. Hood Photography Print

Photograph of a country road in Oregon

Country road in Oregon

Photograph of a country road in Oregon

Oregon Road Trip

The Basketball Hoops Project

Just a reminder that I'm having a show at Fathom Gallery tonight after the Kobe jersey retirement ceremony at Staples Center. I'll have a bunch of limited edition prints on display, along with some 1/1 signed Kobe game jerseys by a group of really talented street artists. Hope to see you all there! 

HOOPS GALLERY

Fathom Gallery: 110 East 9th St. Suite CL002, Los Angeles, CA 90079

 

 

 

American Basketball Photography

Fine Art Basketball Photography Prints

I always think to myself that any photographer who really gives a shit will invest heavily in personal projects. That's not to say you have to spend a lot of money, but invest yourself. Shoot something that's just for you and let that project develop a life of it's own. You'll be glad you did.  I also think that a photographers personal project begins without even knowing it. In your own time you shoot what you're randomly and naturally drawn to. Then over time, a small collection or series of images comes together that you didn't even realize you were creating. The even greater part is over the same period of time, that body of work naturally grows followers of people with similar interests. Those people can be totally random, but they can also be commercial clients who want to buy your images or pay you to make something similar. That's a win on all levels. No longer are you searching for the right clients. Now the right clients are looking for you.

I don't care who you are, things can get slow from time to time. And what happens during those lows, is that you take assignments you're not right for. Maybe it's not your speciality, or maybe you just don't give a shit? Either way, you shouldn't have taken it because it always shows up in the work. Everyone who views an image can tell if it's right or not. When a photographer wants to make a great image he'll do whatever he can to make it. But when the interest isn't there, or they just took the job for the money, you can see it. I decided a long time ago that I'd rather be broke than take assignments that aren't right for me. I use to take them all the time, and it just led to bad relationships and bad images. Definitely not the kind of thing you want out in the world as a freelance photographer. So I started investing heavily in my own projects while also shooting commercially. And after years of building up different portfolios, all that work is starting to pay off. One of them in particular is starting to get really fun, The Basketball Hoops Project. Last February the project had it's first exhibition in New Orleans for NBA All-Star Weekend. And just recently I signed on with Fathom Gallery in Los Angeles. They will not only be sourcing shows for the project and selling prints, but also seeking commercial licensing. I'm really excited about this partnership, and look forward to seeing where it goes. 

Creating images for the right clients is always fun. For a company to choose you out of all the other photographers in the world is a great compliment. When your personal projects start to take flight though, that's the real reward. Hugh Hefner died yesterday. Calling him a legend would be an understatement. Among the many great things he's ever said, my favorite has to be "Life is too short to be living someone else's dream". 

Go out and create for yourself. 

I made this image back in April of 2011 during a road trip with my mother. At the time the Hoops Project wasn't even a thought. Yesterday though,  after stumbling on this,  it made me wonder if it was? 

Click here to see more of my basketball hoop photography

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