ANSEL ADAMS | His Life
Ansel Adams was born on February 20, 1902, in San Francisco, California. His family came to California from New England, after migrating from Ireland in the early 1700s. Adams was known as a hyperactive and sickly child with few friends. Adams taught himself the piano, which would become his early passion.
In 1916, following a trip to Yosemite National Park, he also began experimenting with photography. Between 1929 and 1942, Adams’ work and reputation developed. Adams expanded his repertoire, focusing on detailed close-ups as well as large forms, from mountains to factories. During this period, Adams joined photographers Dorothea Lange and Walker Evans in their commitment to affecting social and political change through art. Adams’ first cause was the protection of wilderness areas, including Yosemite.