Dahlonega Arts Alliance (DAA) Immediate Past Chair Bryan Garris recently showcased his body of photographic work to the University of North Georgia’s Department of Visual Arts, presenting a guest lecture titled “Behind the Lens” on October 13. Through a collection of photographs capturing political protests, community gatherings, and local traditions across Georgia and Florida, Garris offered students a look at the art of photography as both a creative practice and a form of historical documentation.
Looking back over the last decade and a half, Garris shared images from a wide range of events and moments in the region’s history. His photographs included a flag desecration protest and a 2015 Trump campaign rally in Valdosta, Georgia, a pipeline protest in North Florida, and more recent “No Kings” protests in Atlanta. He also highlighted the community traditions that help define a sense of place, including Dahlonega’s Gold Rush Days, Bear on the Square, and Christmas celebrations. These familiar local gatherings hold a special place in his work, particularly as Bryan and his wife, DAA Chair Meagan Garris, have called Dahlonega home for the past 10 years.
Throughout the presentation, Garris emphasized the importance of capturing a sense of place in every photograph. Beyond simply documenting the people and events in front of the camera, he discussed how composition, perspective, timing, and the surrounding environment help tell a more complete story. Students also had an opportunity to learn about the tools behind his work, as Garris showcased several cameras and shared the techniques and strategies he uses while working in the field.
Perhaps most importantly, Garris spoke about his personal philosophy as a photographer and documentarian: preserving important historical moments without imposing his own editorial perspective. Whether photographing a political demonstration or a beloved community festival, he strives to document the people, places, and circumstances as they unfold. His work intentionally captures perspectives from across the political landscape, allowing the photographs to serve as a record of what happened rather than a commentary on what viewers should believe.
For Garris, photography is ultimately about bearing witness to the moments that shape our communities and preserving them for future generations. Through “Behind the Lens,” he shared not only the technical and creative aspects of his craft but also the responsibility and value of documenting the history unfolding all around us.
Special thanks to UNG’s Dr. Ana Pozzi Harris for coordinating the guest lecture. To learn more about UNG’s Department of Visual Arts, click here.