Gregory Shafiro Photographer

Gregory Shafiro was born in Odessa, Ukraine. In the early 1980's, following years of persecution in Russia for practicing Judaism, his family emigrated to the United States in search of freedom and the "American Dream."

Galleries Power of Prayer:
Jerusalem
Through the
Eyes of the Traveler
• Dominican Republic • Chicago• Germany

Portrait of Gregory Shafiro by Emily RichardsonBeing new to the English language Greg had a hard time communicating with teachers and friends. This led him to utilize his interest in photography, as a form of expression; the photographs would speak for him. Throughout Greg's academic career he turned to photography to describe his feelings, views and desires.

Overcoming several obstacles Greg became the first member of his family to attend and graduate college, where his interests expanded into the digital realm. During his freshman year at the University at Albany, he established a web and graphic design company entitled: Film, Life, Art and Raw Entertainment (FLARE), the goal was to give startup non-profits and small businesses the same access and opportunity to digital media as already established businesses. He provided these organizations with his knowledge and expertise in the photography, advertising, web and graphic design fields.

In addition to FLARE, while in Albany, he has photographed annual events such as Champagne on the Park hosted by the Lark Street Bid and Parkfest hosted by University at Albany. His works have been showcased in the National Arts Club, Art on Lark, University at Albany, National Latino Collegiate Conference and Somos El Futuro. Greg has recently completed The Power of Prayer: Jerusalem exhibit and is currently working on his ongoing project entitled: Through the Eyes of the Traveler.

While looking through the viewfinder, he is reminded of what his mother always tells him: "It is your ability to learn from whatever life throws your way that shapes you into a better person, not only the good, but the bad as well." By taking each experience as an opportunity to learn, no matter how bad or good it may be. His life lessons are reflected in each of his photographs. He brings into each image a part of his life experiences and their impact on his persona. If asked, Greg would tell you, that all and all his experiences have served him well, and without life's opportunities and adversities, he would not be able to appreciate his photographs nor the person he is today.