A PASSIONATE AND DEDICATED MASTER PHOTOGRAPHER
Richard Stefani, Oregon Coast, 1980
Richard Stefani (1933-2022), was a passionate and dedicated master photographer, renowned for his unique vision and unwavering dedication to capturing the enduring beauty of America's landscapes. His distinct approach to both portrait and fine art photography earned him widespread recognition and numerous accolades. His art photographs are in collections worldwide.
Throughout a nearly six-decade career, Richard Stefani made a lasting impact in the field of portrait photography. Stefani Photography was the pinnacle of portrait photography in the Pacific Northwest while he was actively working from 1967 to 2005. Through his compelling portraits, he captured the essence of a diverse array of individuals, from social commentary to family moments to iconic political figures.
In addition to his work with notable figures, including U.S. Presidents Nixon and Ford, Stefani also had a talent for capturing the everyday moments of ordinary people. His family portraits have been cherished by his clients for generations, as he was able to capture the love and connection between family members in a way that was both timeless and heartfelt.
Richard Stefani's unwavering dedication to his craft and his unique ability to connect with his subjects set him apart from his contemporaries. His acute attention to detail and his knack for capturing the true essence of his subjects made his portraits truly exceptional. Stefani's work was not just technically impressive, but also deeply moving, as he had the rare talent to evoke a myriad of emotions through his photographs.
He shared his knowledge through lectures on portrait and landscape photography techniques and served as a print judge in international competitions.
In 1972, Richard Stefani achieved the distinguished Master of Photography (M.Photog.) degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA), in addition to holding six gold medals. This honor recognized his exceptional photographic skills displayed in the Photographic Open category of PPA's International Photographic Competition, his commitment to advanced education, and his valuable contributions to the industry.
Richard Stefani, 1986, photo ©Michael Foland
A partial listing of the awards and recognition Richard Stefani achieved during a career that spanned six decades. *This list is incomplete; it will be updated as necessary. We are currently researching our archives to complete this list. These awards have been found and authenticated so far.
MASTER OF PHOTOGRAPHY DEGREE, PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS OF AMERICA (1972)
Photographic Society of America (P.S.A.) – 5 gold medals in International Competition
First Place, Monochrome Print, Rochester NY: Photographic Society of America
Best Monochrome Print, Seattle WA: Photographic Society of America
Professional Excellence in Photography, Photography West Convention
“Best out-of-Province” Professional Photographers of British Columbia
Masters Exhibit, Professional Photographers of America
Honor Print, Salon of Photography 1965, “Seagull”
Ninth International Salon of Photography (Oregon 1966) First Ribbon, Cover Showcase Image
75th Annual Exhibition of Professional Photography, Chicago, Ill
Best B/W Print – 20th International North American Exhibit. CA 1968 “Elizabeth”
Bronze Medal – Monochrome Prints. Oregon. “Vickie”
Best B/W in Show. Chicago, IL 1969 “Elizabeth”
Ray Atkeson Award. Oregon State Fair. 1972 “Silver Creek Falls”
Silver Medal – Color. Oregon. 1973 “Group of 2 – Untitled”
Gold Medal – Monochrome Print, International Salon of Photography (First Oregon photographer to achieve this honor.)
First Place, Oregon. 1966 “Elizabeth”
Best in Show – Color Print. Teaneck, NJ 1976 “Johnny”
Professional Photographer Magazine (twice featured)
Gold Medal – Photographic Society of America, International Exhibit 1981 “Leo & Daughter”
Black and White Prints (1987) Bush Barn Art Center, Salem, Oregon
Poster artist Salem Art Fair (2002), Salem Art Association
Vistas of the Migrant (2002) Bush Barn Art Center, Salem Oregon
Sports Media Award (2005) Oregon Athletic Coaches Association
Professional Photographers of America
• Traveling Annual Exhibitions, 1966, 1967, 1968
• Black and White honors, 1968
• Two gold ribbons, blue ribbon, 1968
Professional Photographers of Oregon 17th annual convention
• 4 trophies, 2 gold medals
Professional Photographers of Oregon 20th annual convention
• Best B/W portrait
• Best Print in Show
• 3 trophies, 4 gold medals
Professional Photographers of Oregon
• Multiple awards 1969
Professional Photographers of Washington
• Gold Ribbon 1966
• Gold Ribbon 1966
• Blue Ribbon 1966
• Blue Ribbon 1966
• Honorable Mention 1967
• Honorable Mention 1968
• Honorable Mention 1969
• Multiple awards,1969
Professional Photographers of British Columbia
• Trophy Award 1967