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Sam AbellAmerican photographer
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Biography of Sam Abel
Sam Abel is an American photographer known for his remarkable work in the renowned magazine 'National Geographic'. Born and raised in the United States, his interest in photography was sparked during his childhood. His father, a geography teacher, also led a photography club and encouraged his son's passion for the art. In fact, Sam Abel mentions in his autobiography that he received his first recognition as a photographer at a young age when he won his first prize in a competition, capturing a winning shot during a walk with his father.

Devoting his entire life to photography, Sam Abel became one of the editors for his high school newspaper. Later, during his time studying English and journalism at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, he served as the editor for the university publication. It was in the late 1960s that Abel began working for 'National Geographic', where he has remained for over five decades.

Throughout his career, Sam Abel has produced numerous groundbreaking photographs. One of his most famous captures is a view from a Japanese window, which brought him worldwide recognition. This photograph even graced the cover of his book, 'Seeing Gardens'. Additionally, Abel's collection features photographs from Russia, specifically from the former USSR. During one of his trips to Moscow, he attempted to photograph M.S. Gorbachev's motorcade, but the attempt proved unsuccessful as he was swiftly intercepted by security. All that remained from that incident was a still life of pears on a Moscow window. Interestingly, Sam Abel had started that photoshoot with the still life on the window, and the government motorcade was noticed entirely by chance.

It is known that Sam Abel rarely uses flash in his photography, preferring to maintain a "pure relationship with light." His documentary-style images, at first seemingly simple, possess an incredible depth. He masterfully focuses on seemingly insignificant details that ultimately contribute to the astonishing "sound" of his work.
In May 2009, Abel was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Toledo. He has also authored several books, with his most recent publication, 'The Life of a Photograph,' released in 2002.