Lake George Region Looses "Mind's Eye" Naturalist Photographer-Richard "Dick" Dean

It is with deep regret that we acknowledge the passing of Richard "Dick" Dean who for decades has been recognized as the pre-eminent naturalist photographer in the Adirondacks and our Lake George Region. Many in the area know that I am "a new comer--and most likely will be one for as long as I live--and that's okay with my fresh eyes. One of the very first things I recognized having only moved to the region four years ago was that no matter where I went, or what website I used to research before my move I was continually reminded of the magnificent and sheer natural splendor of this area through the eyes of Mr. Dean and his "Dean Color" hallmark. It is that "minds eye" way of looking through the lens of a camera that makes a split second in our world part of a lasting legacy on printed paper.

As I have the pleasure to now visit so many businesses in our area as the Executive Director of the Lake George Regional Chamber I am reminded how many people understand, recognize and value his work as well--and have for generations. Each week I see his photographs in a shop, office, reception area, hotel guest room, or at minimum on countless websites. the Dean photographic image of Lake George and our beautiful Adirondack Mountains is all around us. I would venture a guess that many of our visitors to the area carry home their own framed photo or at minimum send a postcard with a Dean Color image on it. Here at the chamber we commissioned Mr. Dean many, many years ago to create a plethora of photographs for us to use in our marketing and media work. Many of these images are still used today by our staff because they are as timeless as the subject matter itself.

While one of his daughters remarked recently that she ventured " millions of copies have been made of Dad's photographs over the years" I can honestly say that each time you see one its like you are sitting at that very moment seeing that sunset, casting out that line or turning to see the snowfall on the branch for the very first time. Our area has truly lost a legacy-- who through his generous eyes we all can benefit for future generations to come.

We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the entire Dean Family. Dean Color has been a member of our chamber for many, many years and helped to shape the "Minds eye" image of the Lake George Region forever.