About John Manuwal
As a Washington native, I have enjoyed the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest my whole life. As I grew up I found myself focusing more and more on the intimate details around me and less on the grand views and cityscapes.
Having a family has helped me explore the world around me even more. Sometimes I even capture it with a camera.
Why I shoot.
Like many I grew up with film cameras. As I learned and practice my craft I found that I enjoyed the interactions with people and capturing moments in time. I’ve gained many friendships from the act of taking a photo and that is truly a gift.
Artist statement
For me the beauty of fine art photography is to be able to create the picture that I see or feel. I have the freedom to create a piece of art that is a part of me or an experience I am having. My goal is to enable others who view my work to enter the experience.
Using many types of photographic mediums has helped me broaden my skills and become closer to the artwork I create. I like to be part of the whole process. I research other artists and locations, then go out and get a feel of a place or subject and then decide on how I want it to look and feel. Once captured, I either have it printed locally, or print it myself in a darkroom to have further artistic control. Once I am happy with the image, I work on how to present the artwork to reflect the experience or emotion I experienced.
I enjoy the process of creation and enjoy being able to share and talk to other artists and lovers of art. Involvement and interaction at art shows, galleries and my website, JohnManuwal.com, is a rewarding and enriching time for me.
CV
John Manuwal Fine Art Artist
Shows
US Bank Display 2014
SCC Gift Show 2013
Gallery North Show in the Loft 6/20/13
SCC Club show 2013 June
US Bank Display 2013
Gallery North Show in the Loft 2012
US Bank Display 2012
Seattle 619 Show 7/7/11
In Print
The Ebbtide Vol.49 Issue 9 Feb, 28 2014
1000 Words magazine Winter 2014 (I made the cover and back)
1000 Words magazine Fall 2012
1000 Words magazine Summer 2012 (I made the cover)
1000 Words magazine Summer 2011
Spindrift 2011
Photography related Volunteering
SCC camera club – 2009 – Present
Cascade Bike Expo – Photography Judge – 2014
SCC helped with a studio class one quarter – 2011
Education
Shoreline Community College AFA – 2010
Shoreline Community College AA – 2010
Lake Washington Technical school Graphic Artist Certificate – 1998
Awards and Competitions
Eagle Scout
Associations
PPA
ASMP
Experience
Since 1996, I've journeyed through film, digital photography, web design, and teaching, always driven by a love for making images.
After a stroke, I returned to digital photography, embracing each outing as a victory.
Work
Darkroom Tech at SCC
Local Studio
1996 - 2025
Managed darkroom operations and guided students through film development and printing.
Freelance Photographer
Self-Employed
1996 - Present
Focus on capturing moments that tell stories, adapting with digital tools and personal growth.
Teacher at FVCC
Tutor at SCC
My Work
Photography rooted in decades of hands-on experience and personal growth.
Portraits
Capturing genuine moments with a patient, thoughtful approach honed since 1996.
Film Work
Returning to large format film photography, embracing its slow, deliberate process.
