Born and raised in Michigan, my journey in the world of art began with a diverse palette of influences, but it was photography that truly resonated with me, thanks to my grandfather's passion for the craft. During my school years, art was my sanctuary. This foundation in visual art later evolved into an exploration of the performing arts; I played the violin in the orchestra and continued this pursuit until my graduation.
After transitioning to college, I shifted my focus away from art, embarking on a different career path. However, life brought me back to my roots in profound ways. The most significant turning point came when my grandfather was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in 2012, leading to his passing in 2014. During those two years, I took on the role of caregiver for my grandmother, ensuring her independence and supporting her through the emotional turmoil.
The memories we created together when I was young—traveling and capturing moments with my grandfather's camera—remain vivid. I recall developing film and assembling photo books filled with our shared experiences, where laughter mingled with tears. Each story shared carried a weight of emotion that still resonates deeply within me.
I created this site to share my passion for photography with you, hoping that you connect with the emotion captured in each of my images. My aim is to bring you along on my journey, just as my grandfather did for me, revealing the true beauty of the world. Through my lens, I aspire to inspire you in the same way he inspired me. Each photograph is a moment frozen in time, designed to evoke feelings and reflections. I invite you to explore my work and discover the stories behind them. Your experience is important to me, and I hope my art resonates with you as deeply as it does with me.
Franklin Noel
Photographer