Leah Fasten (Worcester, MA) grew up in Western Massachusetts and went to Ithaca College (Ithaca, NY), earning a BA in economics. After attending the post-baccalaureate program at Arizona State University (Tempe, AZ), she opened her own studio and is now an active commercial photographer. Her clients include Boston Magazine, Harvard University, US Airways, Yankee Magazine, and Yawkey Foundations.

Fasten's fine art exhibition record is equally as impressive and includes such venues as Cushing Martin Gallery (Stoneham, MA) and the Bakalar Galler (Boston, MA).  Featured online are selections from an ongoing series focusing her son, Zach, in which she investigates the expectations versus the reality of having a child.

  - Leslie K. Brown, PRC Curator

Click here for Fasten's web site

Before Zach started preschool we spent an enormous amount of time together. There was no separation for me between making photographs and taking care of Zach. He came with me while I photographed. Camera gear came with us to all the places toddlers and mamas frequent: playdates, the park, the beach, etc.

here is an innate fear for a mother to see her child alone in the world – your greatest instinct is to protect them. Yet, as a parent, you also have to let your child grow into their own person and experience the world by themselves. My small son against a larger landscape represents this experience and journey.

- Leah Fasten, 2007

Click on each image for larger version and caption.