Allen’s art has been described as “unique, beautiful, and natural”. Allen captures the beauty of nature missed by most people during their hectic schedules. Although digital photography is used for his art, no image is ever touched up or edited to get that perfect photo. “Nature’s beauty doesn’t need help from me,” Allen says.

Having a passion for nature and an eye to capture its beauty, the natural world is his studio. He has traveled throughout the United States taking pictures at National and State Parks such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion, Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons and Custer State Park. Northern Virginia parks, including Walney Nature Center and Green Springs, are sites for photography as well.

Allen’s passion for nature photography is coupled with his certified Backyard Wildlife Habitat. Creation of the Backyard Wildlife Habitat attracted butterflies, birds, and rabbits allowing photo opportunities of various species. Most of the bird and butterfly photos in his portfolio were taken in his backyard.

Allen has participated in various arts and crafts festivals and bazaars throughout the Shenandoah Valley and Northern Virginia areas. Currently, he is pursuing a more active role in the arts community. Recent participation includes the “39th Treasures of Art Show” sponsored by the Vienna Arts Society and juried by Marian Van Landingham, creator of the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, VA. Three works were selected for entry in the event.

Allen and his wife Meg have two furry children, a Black Lab mix named Mozart and a Maine Coon mix named Haydn.

Exhibitions:
• 39th Annual Treasures of Arts Show, Vienna Arts Society, Vienna, VA, November 2007
• 2nd Annual Fine Arts Festival, Manassas, VA, October 2007
• Shenandoah Valley Arts and Crafts Festival, Orkney Springs, VA, July 2007

Memberships:
• www.photomission.com, an International Community of Christian Photographers
• Vienna Arts Society, Vienna, VA
• Ducks Unlimited
• National Wildlife Federation
• Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology
• www.naturephotographers.net
• Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy
• American Bird Conservancy
• National Parks Conservation Association

"But those who wait upon the Lord get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles. They run and don't get tired, they walk and don't lag behind." - Isaiah 40:31 (The Message Translation)