Alabama Photographer David Graves Celebrates Faith Through Stunning Stained Glass Photography

David Graves: An Alabama Photographer Capturing the Beauty of Faith

Meet David Graves, a spirited 52-year-old from Birmingham, Alabama, who balances his career as a pharmaceutical sales representative with a passion for photography. If you take a moment to chat with him, you can’t help but imagine him exploring Alabama’s landscapes, pausing at sunrises, cityscapes, and serene waterfalls. But for the past year, David has channeled his artistic vision into a deeply personal project that highlights something special—stained glass windows in churches across the state!

A Journey of Faith and Beauty

Over the course of 2023, David embarked on an incredible journey, visiting 100 churches throughout Alabama. Armed with his camera, he snapped an awe-inspiring collection of 600 photos, showcasing the striking colors and intricate designs of stained glass. Each photo tells a story of faith and hope, where “week after week, generation after generation, a message resonates” within the beauty of these sacred spaces. His artistic endeavor culminated in a delightful coffee table book entitled “Alabama Faith: Churches and Stained Glass”, which hit the shelves in mid-October.

The Making of “Alabama Faith”

As you flip through the pages of this hardcover book, priced at just $34.95, you will find 150 stunning photographs from 75 distinct churches—ranging from the elegant Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Huntsville to the charming Spring Hill Baptist Church in Mobile. Each photograph captures not only the artistry of the stained glass but also the warmth of every space where these windows reside.

For David, sharing these photos has been a soul-stirring experience. He reflects, “I never anticipated signing a single book for anyone when I did this project. It’s humbling, and I feel a sense of completion and satisfaction.” His father’s words echo in his mind, reminding him that sharing his gift is what truly matters. And sharing it he has! Besides offering copies of his book online, David has been busy spreading the word at speaking events and signings.

A Photographer’s Path

So, how did David develop his love for photography? He recalls a pivotal moment when a friend urged him to find balance in his life. Inspired, he created a bucket list and set off on adventures, including a memorable trip to Ireland. With no formal training, David learned through research, practice, and the courage to embrace his mistakes. “You’re never going to be good at something until you’re willing to be bad at it,” he advises aspiring photographers.

His home is a reflection of his dedication, where every wall hints at his passion. Although his camera gear is neatly tucked away, he always stays “camera ready” because beauty can happen at any moment and must be captured!

Why Stained Glass?

The seeds of this book were sown in David’s childhood, when his dad took him to their church in Thomasville. Sitting quietly on the pews with the lights turned off, they watched the vibrant colors of stained glass light up the room. “Even at a young age, I knew that moment was special,” he reflects. Fast forward years later, a casual conversation sparked the idea of capturing stained glass windows, and the project took off from there!

Not Just Pictures, But Memories

Why is David so driven to showcase these photos? He believes it serves multiple purposes: documenting history, evoking nostalgia, and inspiring conversation. The book features blank pages for readers to jot down their own church memories, turning it into a heartfelt gift for loved ones. “This is my love letter to the local and global church and to the state of Alabama,” he stated simply.

What’s Next?

As he moves forward, David hopes this project encourages people to slow down in our fast-paced world, to pause and appreciate the beauty around them. “I want people to lean in with curiosity when they view my photos,” he shares. Each photograph acts as a reminder of the hope and redemption that stained glass windows have brought to generations of believers.

If you’re interested in exploring the beauty David has captured or if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, don’t miss out on “Alabama Faith: Churches and Stained Glass”. You can find it available on Amazon and through David’s social media pages. David Graves is just getting started, and who knows what beautiful stories will unfold next?