As an adventurer photographer, I immerse myself in the magnificence of nature and the allure of the western lifestyle. My work spans the realms of ranching, wildlife, and travel photography, with the ambition of transforming captured moments into fine art prints that resonate with viewers.

The subject matter that calls to me is deeply rooted in the raw beauty and inherent majesty of the natural world and its inhabitants. I am particularly drawn to animals and their environments, committed to seizing fleeting instances that showcase their splendor and spirit.

When selecting a particular scene, I am inspired by the abundant beauty that prevails in our world—the places, people, and animals that exude life. My goal is to breathe life into my photos, allowing my subjects not just to be seen, but to be experienced.

My inspiration flows from multiple sources: the work of other renowned photographers, the intrinsic beauty of nature and the world, and the joy and nostalgia that my photos can evoke in someone, reconnecting them with a cherished memory.

In terms of technique, I strive to capture the purest, most evocative photographs in-camera, which I then enhance using a range of photo editing software. The final touches involve careful selection of the medium for presentation—be it framing, metal, canvas, etc.—to ensure each piece is shown in its best light and form. This process, which combines technical skill and artistic foresight, is what makes my art distinctive and uniquely mine.

David Schafer was born in the tranquil expanses of Northwest Missouri, where his early years unfolded on a farm amidst an abundance of animals and thrilling adventures. This idyllic rural upbringing fashioned a childhood brimming with wonder and joy, nurturing a deep-seated appreciation for nature. This love of the natural world later became the cornerstone of his artistic inspiration.

It was not until his mid to late 30s that Schafer truly embraced his calling as an artist, despite an early fascination with photography. A man whose route to art was anything but conventional, Schafer pursued an academic path vastly different from the creative arena. He holds a B.S. degree in Animal Science, followed by an M.S. and PhD in Animal Breeding and Genetics. His professional endeavors saw him managing ranches and research facilities for Colorado State University and the University of Arizona. Nonetheless, his camera was a constant companion throughout these years, capturing slices of life whenever the opportunity arose.

Unlike many artists who come from artistic lineages or who train extensively in art institutions, Schafer's photographic skills are largely self-taught. He honed his craft through keen observation, relentless experimentation, and a series of workshops that sharpened his technical and creative abilities. His work is a heartfelt tribute to the agrarian lifestyle he cherishes and the diverse cultures he encounters through his travels.

Schafer's creative process is an intricate dance of precision and emotion. He is committed to capturing the optimal image with his camera, then painstakingly elevating these captures into fine art using Photoshop and other imaging software. His technique—refined through years of trial, error, and learning—is a harmonious blend of technical prowess and a profound love for nature's beauty.

Notably, Schafer’s art is a unique reflection of his perspective on the world, a synthesis of technical accuracy, emotional depth, and genuine affection for the subject matter. The absence of one singular influence allows Schafer’s work to flourish in a space of originality, continuously fueled by the creativity of fellow artists and photographers.

His accolades are numerous and indicative of his exceptional talent. Highlights include the 2024 People's Choice Award at the 22nd Annual Exploring the Light Photo Show and first place in the Monochrome Photo category at the Cary Photographic Artists’ 4th Annual Open Juried Digital Exhibit. He has also been bestowed with prestigious titles such as Photographer of the Year in wildlife and birdlife photography by the Universe of Colour Photography in 2023, and Landscape Photographer of the Year by the Noir Club of Black & White Photography. His work has been showcased in prominent venues including Greg Lawson World Tour Exhibitions in Sedona, AZ, Las Vegas, NV, and Scottsdale, AZ, and as the Featured Artist at the 2013 Arizona National Livestock Show in Phoenix.

In his quest to share the profound beauty of the world through his lens, Schafer seeks to remind us of the innate splendor surrounding our everyday lives. His art encourages viewers to pause and savor the picturesque moments often overlooked. His commitment to displaying the natural world in its most genuine form reflects his deeply held belief that art is a vital component of society, one that compels us to admire and value the beauty around us.

David Schafer's work is more than mere visual aesthetics; it is a testament to the beauty of the agricultural lifestyle and the wonders of global exploration. His future ambitions are clear—to touch the hearts of many through his artistry, making the unseen seen, and the unappreciated cherished.