Fast Eye & Good Fortune
Photographs by Sam Wormley
September 1-October 11, 1997
Gallery-in-the Round, Unitarian Fellowship

Sam Wormley, an Ames photographic artist, exhibited
37 of his images earlier this fall at the Unitarian
Universalist Fellowship's Gallery-in-the-Round, 1015
Hyland Avenue.  The images are black, white and all
shades of gray.  Wormley states that he has learned
by intensive reading about technical camera and
darkroom techniques and "by doing".  He has earned an
A+!

Sam started doing "serious photography" a decade
ago.  He has photographed performances of the
Co'Motion Dance Theater, ISU Dance and Music De-
partments and Central iowa Symphony.  His images do
more than record people at work and play.  They share
the emotions of dancers, musicians and friends.

Wormley shows a deep sensitivity toward the feelings
of his subjects. He also exhibits superb technical
skills.  He captures facial expressions and body
language at key points of activity.  His images tell
us that Wormley likes people and that they trust and
respect him.

He states that the essentials for quality "candid"
photographs include appropriate tools plus a "fast
eye and good fortune".  Wormley makes his own good
fortune.  He has an instinct for capturing the
"decisive moment".  One is attracted to the image of
Theresa Heskett's reflective mood; she is seemingly
unaware of the presence of the photographer.
Wormley's camera records the facial expressions of
diners clearly enjoying each other's company at
ISU's Madrigal Dinners.  In another image, one can
almost feel Carlo Maria Guilini's energy as he
prepares members of the Los Angeles Philharmonic
Orchestra for a concert at C.Y. Stephens.  And, if
you listen carefully, it is easy to convince
yourself that you hear beautiful tones coming from
Edward Carbrey's cello.  You share Lana Lyddon
Hatten's excitement and joy as she dances.

Sam Wormley provided Ames residents a real treat by
displaying his sensitive images of human beings as
they work, play and experience quiet moments.

Review by George Christensen, Ames photographer