The Good Life - Nov-Dec 2013

Dan Francis Photography | THE HODO, WALDORF, reflected heroes
Modern SUVs share the streets
with Model Ts. The shadows of
forgotten hotels float over today’s
bustling streets and the smoldering
embers of yesteryear’s fires flicker
at the edge of the frame, reminding
viewers that history is fluid and even
the most cherished cityscapes are
always changing.
“History is a fun learning
experience when you give the viewer
a snapshot of what was, placed on
top of what is,” said Francis. “By
blending the historical photographs
with modern images, I compare
and contrast the past to the present,
showing not only what has changed,
but what has stayed the same.”
Francis, a certified professional
photographer, has roots in Fargo-
Moorhead and found his muse, his
workspace and much of his clientele
in downtown Fargo. He works from
a studio at 10 8th Street North, where
he captures and edits wedding images,
portraits and commercial work.
Many of his clients, such as Bell
State Bank, The Fargo Theatre, The
Kilbourne Group and Mezzaluna,
are downtown institutions as well
as paying customers, and they often
find their facades featured in his
photographs.
“Fargo is home to most of
my clients, and Fargo’s history is
important to those that have lived
here for a period of time,” said Francis.
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