How does this photographer capture the authentic spirit of Iowa's rural beauty?

WITH RED RIVER PAPER AS THE FOUNDATION FOR EVERY HEARTLAND STORY.

Gravel Roads and Creative Spark

On any given day, you may find Justin Tedford navigating Iowa's winding back roads, his car coated in gravel dust, capturing the essence of what many dismiss as a "fly-over state." Justin's artistic vision was formed while growing up in the hills and farmlands of Harrison County, Iowa, amid the charming rural communities that infuse his work with a sense of place and authenticity.

On his website, Justin shares how the journey began when his aunt lent him a 35mm SLR during a vacation. Later, what started as "an easy A" in high school photography quickly launched a lifelong passion. Justin's current business comprises three related but distinct components: fine art photography, commercial photography, and mentoring others in the nuances of his craft.

Enter Red River Paper

Justin's mission to document Iowa's farm communities demands prints that honor each depiction with exceptional quality. He relies on Red River Paper's Palo Duro Baryta and Aurora Art White 300 for their balance of affordability and professional-grade results.

“Palo Duro Baryta provides a beautiful, rich finish that enhances the depth and detail of my photographs, making them stand out,” Justin tells us. “Aurora White offers a smooth, bright surface that ensures vibrant, accurate color reproduction.”

The affordability and variety of Red River Paper's offerings also resonate with him. "There's never a shortage of options to experiment with," Justin notes, appreciating how the pricing keeps his art accessible.

See More of Justin's Work

Explore Justin's captivating Midwest landscapes at www.tedfordphoto.com, where you'll also discover his photo books on Iowa and the iconic Route 66. Through The Photographer's Lounge Facebook page, he's created a community for fellow photography enthusiasts to share tips, techniques, and their latest work. See our Q&A below for insights into his rewarding experience photographing people he calls “heroes of the heartland,” aka Iowa farm families.

Enjoy our Q&A with Justin Tedford

What year was your business founded and how did you get started?
I started my business in 2005 because of my deep love for photography and storytelling. Capturing moments through the lens allows me to tell compelling stories and preserve memories in a unique and artistic way. This passion for visual storytelling drives me to create beautiful, meaningful images that resonate with people and evoke emotions. My goal is to share my love for photography with others, creating lasting impressions and impactful narratives through my work.

Tell us a little about what product or service your business offers.
I focus on three main areas in my photography business: education, fine art landscape images, and commercial photography. Through my educational initiatives, I aim to inspire and empower aspiring photographers with the skills and knowledge they need. My fine art landscape photography captures the breathtaking beauty of nature, turning moments into timeless pieces of art. In the commercial sector, I provide high-quality, visually engaging images that help businesses tell their stories and elevate their brands.

What makes your business unique?
What makes my business unique is the blend of education, fine art, and commercial photography under one roof. I am deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of photographers through personalized and inspiring educational programs. My fine art landscape images capture the essence of nature's beauty with a distinctive artistic touch, offering clients one-of-a-kind pieces. Additionally, my commercial photography services are tailored to meet the specific needs of each business with striking images that effectively communicate their brand stories. This combination of passion, artistry, and customized service sets my business apart.

Where do you source your raw materials from?
Red River Paper!

In what ways does the business reflect your own personality?
My business reflects my personality in several ways. Photography is at the core of who I am; it's my way of seeing and engaging with the world. This passion is evident in every aspect of my business, from the fine art landscape images that capture the beauty of the Midwest, to the commercial projects that tell compelling visual stories. My love for education drives me to share my knowledge and inspire others, fostering a community of learning and growth.

Who are your typical customers?
My typical customers include aspiring photographers seeking education and mentorship, art collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate fine art landscape photography, and businesses in need of high-quality commercial photography. Aspiring photographers come to me for workshops and personalized training to enhance their skills. Art collectors are drawn to my unique, evocative images of the Midwest's natural beauty. Businesses partner with me to create striking visuals that effectively communicate their brand stories and engage their audiences. Each customer values quality, creativity, and a personal connection to the work.

What is the most interesting project you've encountered in the course of your work?
One of the most interesting projects I've undertaken was photographing Iowa farm families. This project allowed me to get to know the heroes of the heartland, capturing their daily lives and the essence of their work. I had the privilege of meeting so many wonderful people and visiting a variety of unique, picturesque farms. The experience was incredibly rewarding, as I documented the resilience, dedication, and warmth of these families, creating a visual story that honors their contributions and preserves their legacy.

What has Red River Paper done for your business? Is there a particular challenge Red River Paper has helped you overcome or a goal they helped you meet?
Red River Paper has been instrumental in the success of my business by offering a wide variety of high-quality products at prices that allow me to keep my photographs affordable. Their extensive range of papers means there's never a shortage of options to experiment with, enabling me to find the perfect medium for each unique image. This flexibility not only enhances the final presentation of my work but also ensures that I can meet diverse client needs without compromising on quality or cost.

Which Red River Paper products do you use, and what do you appreciate most about them?
I primarily use Red River Paper's Palo Duro Baryta and Aurora Art White 300. What I appreciate most about these products is their perfect balance of affordability and exceptional quality. Palo Duro Baryta provides a beautiful, rich finish that enhances the depth and detail of my photographs, making them stand out. Aurora White offers a smooth, bright surface that ensures vibrant, accurate color reproduction. Together, these papers allow me to deliver professional-grade prints to my clients while keeping costs manageable, making high-quality art accessible to a broader audience.

Original Publication Date: September 29, 2025

Article Last updated: September 29, 2025

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