Artist Spotlight: Tim Baca

Tim Baca is a photographer and storm chaser based in New Mexico. He began his journey as a storm chaser and photographer in 2017, inspired by fellow storm chaser and photographer David Mayhew’s photograph “CATACLYSM.” This storm and image is what inspired Tim to not only chase storms, but to document them visually with a camera. “At the time of this image, I didn't own a camera. Once seeing how he captured the moment I knew a camera was a must.” Tim offers prints of his work on his website, timbacaphotography.com.

Tim’s passion for photography and beauty of his home state of New Mexico have produced many beautiful images of storms, landscapes, and the state's famous hot air balloons. “Photography started out as a means to document the storms I witnessed across the Great Plains. Once storm season was over, landscape photography became a way to occupy my free time. Since then, photography has grown to be a driving passion in my life.” Tim enjoys sharing the world with others through his photography. “I really enjoy being able to share my view on the world around us. There are people who otherwise would never see the beauty of these giant supercells, or remote locations in my home state of New Mexico. Another aspect I really enjoy is having my prints hanging in someone's house. It's such a honor, when a person wants to display your piece for their friends and family to see.”

"Sanctuary" by Tim Baca pictured above.

Tim’s true passion is storm photography. “The structure of a giant spinning supercell mixed with a landscape element just gets my blood pumping.” When beginning a new project or piece, he is inspired by the work of photographer Wayne Suggs in his own landscape photography. “His style of near/far photography really speaks to me.” He is also inspired by a small group of photographers and storm chasers that he is a part of. “Storm photography wise, I'm in a small group of photographer/storm chasers and we talk daily. They constantly inspire and push me to do better. We share photos and excite each other's passions for all things photography. In the spring we often travel the country together in search of supercells.”

"Organ Blooms" by Tim Baca pictured above.

To aspiring photographers, Tim encourages exploring different types of photography and finding that which makes you the happiest. “Experiment and find one that truly excites you, then run with it. You will give it your all when you become passionate about what you do.” He also encourages aspiring photographers to be open to constructive criticism. “One of the biggest factors in my photography growth is being open to constructive criticism. Be open to it, and you'll come out a better photographer in the end.”

Tim found Golden State Art when searching for pre-cut mats online. “[I] came across the website and was amazed at all the options! Everything I needed and then some were at my door less than a week later. The fast packing and shipping has helped me meet deadlines for shows. Your products such as double-sided tape dispenser and precut mats greatly sped up my process.”

This upcoming Spring, Tim will be a guest workshop leader for the Storm Chase Tour of the Great Plains. “For anyone who would be interested in a workshop with us just go to https://www.chasetours.net/ or message me on any of my social media's.”

Tim’s Website: https://timbacaphotography.com/

Tim’s Instagram: @tim_baca_photography

Tim’s Facebook: @tbimagery