SigMT

hotography, traditionally defined as the art and science of capturing images with a camera, takes on a new dimension with Lisa Wareham and Eric Visocan. ese two trailblazing photographers are redefining the field not just by adhering to its foundational principles but by innovatively expanding its scope. rough their creative endeavors, Wareham P Visocan has masterfully turned his cra into creating bespoke wooden keepsakes that encapsulate images, alongside carving out a unique niche in producing recruiting videos for educational institutions and law enforcement agencies. His venture, Burnt Image, is rooted in Fort Benton, where he operates from a workshop that serves as both his creative hub and business headquarters. Wareham artfully blends history with the present in her captivating photo series, Layers of Time. is collection combines present-day photographs she has taken with historical images from the late 1800s to the early 1900s, creating a fascinating overlay. "Layers of stories – this is how I see and how I photograph," Wareham explains. Her work reflects a deep engagement with the history of her hometown, Bue, and its surrounding areas, grounded in the belief that "We are made from the people and events that came before us," notes Wareham. Visocan has always been fascinated by photography. As a kid, he began tinkering with a basic film camera, later picked up an old DSLR , and began developing photography. Over the years, his casual interest deepened, especially as he navigated the challenging terrain of a decade-long career in law enforcement. Photography emerged not just as a hobby but as a vital outlet for stress relief and a counterbalance to the rigors of his day job. is pastime soon evolved into a sideline he named Burnt Image, which rapidly grew into a full-scale operation. Encouraged and supported by his wife, Heidi, Eric took a leap of faith, leaving his law enforcement career behind to dedicate himself wholly to his photography business. His business portfolio is diverse, spanning traditional portrait photography, aerial shots of real estate and landscapes, videography, and uniquely craed wooden photo boards. Aerial photography and videography have carved niches for themselves within his offerings, catering to real estate, landscapes, and recruitment videos for educational and law enforcement institutions statewide. and Visocan are transforming their passions into groundbreaking photographic forms, seing new benchmarks for growth in their respective businesses. ERIC VISOCAN e custom wood artwork has become a significant aspect of his business. "I sell a lot on Facebook and sometimes find it hard to keep up," he reveals. ese wooden pieces, oen shaped like Montana, have become particularly popular, with Montana cribbage boards and Challenge Coin holders for collectors of special military coins leading the demand. Schools and law enforcement facilities across the state and beyond have sought out Visocan's videography skills for their recruitment films. His dedication is evident as he works tirelessly from dawn until dusk to capture the perfect lighting SIGNATURE MONTANA | 39 Visocan's iconic custom wooden artworks showcase his remarkable versatility as an artist, adding a unique dimension to his creative repertoire. Visocan combines craftsmanship with personalization in this custom-crafted wooden piece, intricately shaped like the state of Montana. It features a detailed photo of a Mercy Flight helicopter landing, a special order for a flight medic. This piece is a testament to the unique, bespoke creations that define his work with clients."

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