Wet plate by Shane Balkowitsch

It’s been nearly a year since Shane Balkowitsch invited a group of fellow artists into his studio, for what would be his largest shoot. The purpose, to bring history to life, through a unique depiction of the tragic myth of Niobe.

Focusing on the seven sons, who fell victim to the arrows of Apollo, Balkowitsch spent months working on the concept, recruiting actors, and getting the scene just right. Looking to fellow artists for support, he found many happy to give their time and expertise.



Wanting to give the shoot added character, Balkowitsch recruited the talented local artist, Paul Noot, to design a backdrop for the event. The outcome, a magnificent piece of art, which helped capture the myth of Niobe.

With the scene set, and the actors committed, the day of the shoot approached, and all were anxious to see what would come.

A Collaboration
Knowing that he would need others to help make this shoot possible, Balkowitsch was happy to collaborate with others. Bringing in the talents Kevin Tengesdal, to help with creating the scene, Mike LaLonde and Jason Lueder, to capture behind the scene shots as well as to help frame the photo, and as always, his trusty apprentice, Greg Frank, the team was ready to attempt a shoot Balkowitsch had never tried before.

With nerves high, the setup started without a hitch. The main worry; would there be enough light to capture each individual. For those who had seen Balkowitsch in action, there was little doubt that they would be able to accomplish their goal.

As actors took their positions, a test plate was shot. Anxious to see what would take form, hopes were kept under control, as no one wanted to allow their expectations to run wild.

Ever so slowly though, as the image began to appear, a sigh of relief could be heard in the room. The first plate was a success. Over the course of the next few hours, one plate after the next would successfully be developed, a testament to the dedication of the group.

Final Product
With the plates completed, the group retired for the day, knowing that they had helped bring a bit of history back to life.

For the story of Niobe, see the video below.

To see more of Balkowitsch’s work, go to Balkowitsch’s Wet Plates

Photos by Dustin White

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