© LeRoy DeJolie

© LeRoy DeJolie

© LeRoy DeJolie

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Interviewer: Which of your photographs mean the most to you?

DeJolie: The moment you arrive upon my homeland, your senses become engulfed with tremendous abundance of photo opportunities. It's really hard to make a bad image of Navajo land. All the photographs I've taken in my homeland, are all my favorites. The sun plays an endless drama with light to the wondrous beauty of old Navajo land. You know you have arrived at an incredible place for observing and photographing my homeland.

Interviewer: Is there a special person or place that you would love to photograph, but haven't yet?

DeJolie: I wish I could turn back the hands of time in "old Navajo Land" and photograph into the distance, the lone hogan with its makeshift corral using remnants of old wooden structures that once stood in the ages of time. Perhaps, a band of grazing sheep herded by women whose age is only reflected by the wind and sunburned skin on her face. This would be a charming subject that I would not resist photographing.

Interviewer: Whose work has influenced your own?

DeJolie: Other than the workshops that I conduct annually, ninety percent of my photograph have been done on a solo adventure. Above all, there are three individuals who have inspired me tremendously in my life. First are my daughters, Mariah and Tara. Next, my father Harry who himself spent countless hours photographing during his younger days. Then lastly, individuals like David Muench and Jack Dykinga whose work I admire the most. It's rewarding enough to see their collection of photographs in books, magazines and calendars. I believe I have spoken for the majority of other photographers throughout the country.

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