TIM MANTOANI: Behind Photographs: Polaroid Portraits of Photographers

Tim Mantoani picked up his first camera in high school and never let go.

From attending the Brooks Institute of Photography, to managing the studio of renowned photographic educator Dean Collins, to opening Mantoani Studio in 1995, shooting photos has been Tim's lifelong passion and profession. It's led him to producing editorial imagery for Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, and ESPN, as well as advertising photography for Coors, Coca-Cola, EA Sports, Oakley, and more international brands. His love of the process most recently led to tracking down and photographing the shooters behind some of the world's most iconic images with his celebrated Behind Photographs project. Tim's even stepped in front of the camera to host his own KPBS television series Snapshot, exploring the characters and hidden corners of his San Diego hometown.

"Every one sees the world differently. Through their own lens. I'm lucky that mine happens to be attached to a camera. To me, that's the most exciting and rewarding thing about photography and film. Capturing a vision that's uniquely yours and sharing it."

— Tim Mantoani

Studio mate and friend Marshall Williams will be on-hand at the reception to talk about working with Tim and the making of these beautiful and historic photographs. Featured images include Harry Benson with 'Beatles Pillow Fight' (1964), Mary Ellen Mark with 'Elephant Trainer, Great Golden Circus' (1990), and Elliott Erwitt with 'Dog Legs' (1974). The exhibition celebrates Tim's memory.