About us
Before Artisan Obscura one would go online and do a search for “soft shutter release buttons” and end up on eBay. You would buy a button, and it would come in the mail mass-produced from China. While the soft release would certainly serve its purpose of heightening the action of the shutter, allowing the photographer greater control at slower shutter speeds and improving the ergonomics – the mass-produced, mass-manufactured button was indeed functional – but where was the form? Where was the character? Where was the personal touch? That’s where we come in.
Artisan Obscura emerged in 2013 from the shared vision of photographers Steve Stanton and Preston Utley, who sought to infuse artistry into camera accessories. Dissatisfied with the impersonal design of soft release buttons and hot shoe covers available at the time, they combined their creative talents to craft meticulously designed wooden alternatives that resonated with the photographic community.
Based in Colorado, Steve Stanton is a distinguished photographer specializing in weddings, engagements, and family portraits. His work has been featured in publications such as Elle Magazine, Rangefinder Magazine, and The Knot. Steve's approach emphasizes capturing authentic moments, and his portfolio showcases a diverse range of locations, including Aspen, New York City, and Costa Rica.
Also hailing from Colorado, Preston Utley is renowned for his ability to capture genuine emotions in his photography. Specializing in weddings and family portraits, Preston's work is characterized by its narrative quality, allowing clients to relive their special moments. His clients praise his talent for finding special surprise moments and capturing the feel of events.
In 2016, Drew Jensen joined Artisan Obscura to oversee production, bringing a fresh perspective to the company's craftsmanship. In 2018, Drew acquired full ownership of Artisan Obscura, continuing the founders' legacy while steering the company toward new horizons. The company has maintained its commitment to quality and artistry, offering unique, high-end wood and laser-engraved camera accessories that inspire photographers to engage deeply with their craft.
Drew Jensen is a Denver-based Fine Art Photography Roycroft Artisan. He has developed a body of work that is both visually appealing and thought-provoking. “Photographs hold great power. They freeze time, connecting the past with the present. They tell stories, and have the ability to teleport viewers to places they’ve never been. Photographs evoke emotions and associations unknown to the viewer, until the image speaks to them. Photographs are magic.”
Artisan Obscura offers accessories in over fifteen different woods, which make each button completely unique in its tone, color, and grain structure. On top of that, AO offers some of the most innovative designs and inlay work available. Artisan Obscura is the first in the game and the best in the game with soft shutter release buttons and hot shoe covers.
Our end game is this: we want you to take pictures, document your life, your friends, your family, the strangers you meet, your dog, your cat, your food, what ever the heck you want. Be inspired! If a little wooden accessory can get you excited to pound the pavement and explore, then we’ve done our jobs. If you have a camera, we have something for you.
Quick History of our beloved Logo...
Our logo, a horse in stride, is taken from a sequence of photographs made by 19th century photographer Eadweard Muybridge, one of the most prolific problem solvers in the history of photography. This image and its history continue to inspire us to create products that inspire. And in turn, they continue to ignite our passion to take more pictures.
