The Burgess Photographic Journey

In the quaint mountainous communities up and around Highway 38, all the way up to Big Bear, nestled in the California San Bernardino National Forest, Gary Burgess is a name synonymous with both the essence of photography and the heart of community spirit. Alongside his wife, Carol, Gary has not only captured through his lens the milestones and serene landscapes of magnificent mountain beauty, its residents and visitors, but also woven himself into the fabric of local lore. As Gary decides to hang up his camera after decades of dedication, The 38 Bulletin delves into the remarkable journey of this beloved local photographer and business owner of Burgess Photographics.

Gary's tryst with photography began in his high school years, a passion kindled not within the confines of classrooms but through the pursuit of capturing moments, often skipping school to do so. This passion bore fruit early when he won a Kodak competition, a victory that not only surprised but also signaled the dawn of Gary's lifelong commitment to photography.

The journey was not without its twists and turns. Initially, Gary ventured into the business with a partner, forming Barrington and Burgess Photography. However, fate had other plans as Barrington chose a path in firefighting, leaving Gary to navigate the waters of his business solo. This transition marked the beginning of Burgess Photographics, a venture that would see Gary explore various photography styles, from portraiture to commercial projects, including weddings and product shoots for notable companies like Gemco.

Gary's work extended beyond the confines of a studio; his photography took him across the states, where he crafted his art for a diverse clientele, eventually leading him to specialize in campground photography, a niche that celebrated his love for the outdoors and community. For over 50 years, Gary has been the visual historian for Easter Seals Camp, capturing moments that echo the joy and transformative experiences of its campers.

What stands out in Gary's career is not just his versatility as a photographer but his deep-rooted connection to the community and his ability to nurture long-term relationships. Whether through his commercial work or the cherished campground photos, Gary has been a constant presence in the lives of many, often capturing the growth of individuals and families over years.

Outside of his professional realm, Gary's personal pursuits mirror his passion for exploration and discovery. From hiking the mountain trails to panning for gold, his adventures have been as varied and vibrant as his photography subjects. Yet, it is his sense of humor and the playful joy he finds in life and photography that resonates with all who know him.

As Gary and Carol reflect on the years spent working together, the highlights they share are imbued with a sense of dedication and love for their craft and community. From late-night editing sessions to delivering photos just in time for campers to take home, their shared experiences underscore a life well-lived through the lens of service, creativity, and connection.

Now, as Gary officially steps into retirement, his legacy is not merely in the thousands of photographs that adorn the walls and albums of those he has captured but in the indelible impact he has made on the community. For those aspiring photographers who may follow in his footsteps, Gary's journey underscores the importance of passion, perseverance, and the profound joy found in preserving moments that matter.

As the sun sets on a remarkable career, Gary and Carol Burgess leave behind a legacy that transcends photography—a testament to the power of community, the art of seeing the world through a lens of compassion, and the enduring spirit of the 38’s Mountain Communities most cherished photographer.

Gary won the 1958 Kodak High School Photo Contest presented by the Eastman Kodak Company, Rochester New York

Gary and Carol Burgess