Sometimes I like to think of myself as a photography factory. I see my photographs mostly as raw material for projects that might be worked on at some point later on in life.
We all have but a short time on this earth. As slow as time can be it is also fast, swift, furious and mighty and then it’s over. Jack Kerouac is dead. Andy Warhol is dead. Garry Winogrand is dead. Lee Friedlander, Stephen Shore and William Eggleston are not dead yet, but probably will be at some point. Charles Bukowski once said that endurance was more important than truth. Charles Bukowski's now dead.
When I'm not taking or processing the pictures I'm mostly thinking about the pictures. I'm trying to publish a library of 1,000,000 finished, processed photographs before I die.
The absurdity of my obsessive compulsive view on photography is not lost on me. But it is the absurdity of life that I find most beautiful of all. Where Sisyphus had his stone I have my camera and a bag full of lenses.
Document, explore, lather, rinse, repeat. Photography for me then becomes a kind of hyperactivity, loosely arranged and presented. My work is less about individual images and instead more about the power of a massive amount of excessive and disjointed images where stories, characters and places sometimes stay and other times reappear or disappear entirely for no good reason at all.
Most of my images are Creative Commons licensed, non commercial with attribution. If you'd like to use any CC licensed images for non commercial or personal purposes feel free. If you'd like to use any of my "all rights reserved" photos for non-commercial purposes feel free as well, unless they are licensed by Getty Images in which case I'm under contractual obligation not to let people use them.
"I discovered that this camera was the technical means in photography of communicating what the world looks like in a state of heightened awareness. And it's that awareness of really looking at the everyday world with clear and focused attention that I'm interested in."
- Stephen Shore
Pinned to Jack Kerouac's wall to inspire his writing: "Art is the highest task and the proper metaphysical activity of this life."-Nietzsche
This is the group DMU where I spend time on Flickr. Come stop by and say hi!
Thomas Hawk on Flickr
Thomas Hawk on Zooomr
Thomas Hawk on Facebook
Thomas Hawk on Twitter
Thomas Hawk on Friend Feed
Thomas Hawk on Thomas Hawk's Digital Connection
Photos of Thomas Hawk (145)
Thomas Hawk's favorite photos from other Flickr members (75,447)
Contacts (15,226)
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Groups (50)
- Garry Winogrand Canted Moments 5402 photos, 636 members
- SmartSetr 0 photos, 138 members
- Nashville! 15209 photos, 1101 members
- Memphis Tennessee (5 photos per day limit) 8506 photos, 721 members
- DMU: The Lightbox Book 61 photos, 42 members
- The CALIBER Group 283 photos, 144 members
- not switched on yet DMU 3 photos, 23 members
- Contemporary Photographer 0 photos, 1 member
- Getty Images Call for Artists 95640 photos, 16484 members
- Photography is not a crime 1771 photos, 1965 members
- Starbucks Coffee Company 2998 photos, 3218 members
- SF Bay Area Abandonments 1114 photos, 143 members
- Nik Software Photo Share 11691 photos, 1137 members
- Hunters Point Naval Shipyard 370 photos, 52 members
- I Love Old Signs! 25138 photos, 2725 members
- Girafa Hunters 1253 photos, 223 members
- William Eggleston 14512 photos, 1180 members
- Lost Weekends 1335 photos, 197 members
- The Lightbox 1459 photos, 321 members
- Getty Images on Flickr 0 photos, 6950 members
- In Loving Memory of Mr.CHARLES BUKOWSKI_The True 555 photos, 139 members
- NEON CLOCKS 368 photos, 43 members
- Feelin' 7-Up! [VINTAGE Seven Up] 1127 photos, 482 members
- Neon Signs 53180 photos, 5786 members
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art 5481 photos, 1311 members
- Museum of Neon Art 313 photos, 52 members
- San Francisco Graffiti 27004 photos, 952 members
- Bay Area Graffiti 36580 photos, 1194 members
- i shoot windows 1795 photos, 151 members
- $2 Portraits 536 photos, 511 members
- Metroblogging San Francisco 2244 photos, 119 members
- Abandoned 282066 photos, 21560 members
- Banksy 13791 photos, 14812 members
- Postcard Perfect 68 photos, 6 members
- Getty Images and the Flickr Collection 9806 photos, 831 members
- Adobe Lightroom 12698 photos, 12815 members
- Bansky 103 photos, 175 members
- Whitney Museum 135 photos, 100 members
- VINTAGE MOTEL SIGNS ONLY! 16505 photos, 3214 members
- Wooster Collective 192702 photos, 4800 members
- San Francisco Magazine 1577 photos, 151 members
- WHAT YOU'RE SEEING (SF) 8178 photos, 294 members
- Photografr.com 2233 photos, 138 members
- Photowalking.org 808 photos, 77 members
- Urban Exploration *EXPLORING ABANDONMENTS* 72054 photos, 4889 members
- Oakland, California 12937 photos, 1247 members
- Alameda NAS 1138 photos, 125 members
- Photowalking 1780 photos, 121 members
- Warehouse 6 241 photos, 26 members
- camera haiku 3296 photos, 820 members
Testimonials (126)
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john faherty photography says:
"Thomas has been an inspiration from the first day I read his blog about how to gain exposure for your work on flickr. His insight and advice are priceless, and the contacts and friends I have made on here have given me so much confidence in my abilities. His photography is very unique and creative, and I have used some of his shots on flickr as inspiration for my middle school students.
Thank you for an endless (literally) stream of fantastic photography!
John"15th December, 2009
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Billy Wilson Photography says:
"I find Thomas Hawk to be a very ambitious and inspirational photographer. He plans to complete a library of 1,000,000 published images in his lifetime. His work is very interesting and brings me to his Flickr Photostream regularly, I am amazed be the volume of photographs that he puts out."
5th December, 2009
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Eriç says:
"Thoms Hawk is certainly a unique photographer! To capture so many photos in a day is one thing. But for them to be of such high standard, interesting and of varying content is another,. Thomas Hawk is an amazing photographer, and i hope he achieves his goal of reaching 1,000,000 published images!"
9th November, 2009
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kaarthi says:
"i came to know abt this legend a few months back somewher in google or in FB. It doesnt matter wher he came from, but i guess im very much lucky to know abt him and his passion in Photography. His vision is great. His photos make an inspiration to me to become like Thomas Hawk. im just a beginner in photography. i just cant resist my soul to stop speakin abt him when it comes to term 'Photography'. ther are no words to speak. but i would like to see more of him in future. i wish him all the very best to reach his dream. Long live the Legend."
25th October, 2009
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l~~~{G}~~~l says:
"One word: Genius!"
21st October, 2009
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f e r n a n d o says:
"Your work is inspirational to me- I am moved with gusto to pick up my camera and shoot again, determined of capturing the excellence of the world around me!"
20th October, 2009
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sam_ says:
"Anyone who is willing to challenge himself by setting a goal to publish 1,000,000 finished, processed photographs before he dies is someone worth paying attention to! Thomas Hawk is not only an ambitious photographer he is an excellent photographer. I love seeing his work and look forward to seeing much more of it in the years to follow. Here's to you Mr. Hawk."
30th September, 2009
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OohAhhPhotography says:
"Thomas is a wonderful photographer, talented and creative beyond words with an amazing eye for detail, colors, expression and light. His love for the art of photography is shown in his work; he is a stunning example and an inspiration to all photographers."
17th September, 2009
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WatermelonSugar says:
"thomas hawk rawks."
24th August, 2009
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ßlind Point says:
"He is such a lovely person and a fine photograhper. I like his own view of different things in life but most of all I love his sence of humor and his sensetivity.
Ahmed"6th August, 2009
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onecraftylibrarian says:
"I just discovered Thomas yesterday and I've been totally inspired. I've made tons of his photos a fave. He's inspired to pick up my camera and see what's out there. I especially love his photos of the Seattle Central Library."
14th July, 2009
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Stef(igno) says:
"Thomas è geniale, iperattivo, onnipresente. Ottimo sguardo e tecnica. Ottimi tagli e luce. Con le sue foto riesce a farmi vedere l'altra fetta dei posti che frequenta, l'altro sguardo che spesso altri fotografi non riescono a carpire."
18th July, 2009
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loic+ says:
"Thomas has a modern day vision that will enlighten any beginning or phenom photographer. He portrays every shot with essence and meaning. A true legendary photographer."
23rd July, 2009
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red_dotdesign wishes you all happy holidays! says:
"Thomas Hawk is 100% inspiration. From is $2 Portrait Project to his pure love of photography, he shoots for himself and shares the fruits of his labour with many. I don't know him very well but feel his passion for the world around him in each photograph. I just want to thank him for being so generous with his lens. Cheers, TH."
27th July, 2009
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`Carlina says:
"Thomas Hawk is a great photographer who likes to guide other photography lovers. I have been a reader of his blog for a long time. And his photostream is one of the first ones I have been lucky enough to discover on Flickr, yet he never fails to come up with interesting and beautiful images."
10th July, 2009
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Rahul Reloaded says:
"One of the most enthusiastic and avid shutterbugs I have seen with an awesome dream...may your great site Zooomr scale all the height achievable in the photo sharing world."
9th July, 2009
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christian.senger says:
"I totally support Thomas' project to publish 1000k processed pictures since this will give me the opportunity to frequently check back his stream for some outstanding perspectives, lights and motives. This is really pro work, you can learn a lot here!"
19th June, 2009
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carolina naftali says:
"I wish I could have more time, so I can also share 1.000.000 pics before I die!!
Persevere and you'll succeed!!!
Very interesting and assorted photostream... :)"17th June, 2009
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Bowman! says:
"Love him or hate him, Thomas Hawk's work speaks for itself. Combining the curiosity of a photojournalist, the determnation of a detective and the vision of a true artist his work stands out in a sea digital mediocrity. I admire Thomas' work and look forward to this future efforts.
RDB"16th June, 2009
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★ Nadi ★ says:
"I love your photos!"
7th June, 2009
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Studio Mohawk says:
"I just realized that I fave your photos again and again.
I'm not that good with English so that I can tell you how wonderful my feeling when I stumble upon your photos.
Found you at Twitter and I so glad I did."22nd May, 2009
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Mike Wiacek says:
"TH has an amazing eye for creative compositions. The only mystery is how in the world he is able to take so many photos each day. :-)"
19th May, 2009
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MeckiM@c says:
"Thomas is a great photographer but most readers will already know that.
What I really like about him is his passion to fight for photographers rights. We should see more of his type and more people should stand up and speak up if they get stopped by stupid security guards or police-man who just want to show their power they don't have
He inspired me for many photographs and I know I would act differently today when stopped by a law-enforcement officer who tries to prevent me from taking pictures or to request me to delete any pictures that I have taken. Thanks Thomas for your work."7th May, 2009
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liber says:
"As I write this testimonial I rest easy, as I know it will not be censored.
TH's defense of freedom is laudable, and by the way, he takes good photos too! And a whole lot of them."18th April, 2009
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tomSTAR3000 says:
"T.H. is one of the most brilliant photogs I have ever had the pleasure of witnessing."
15th April, 2009
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Sandmania says:
"A man on a mission....with the fire and passion burning within him to achieve his life goal, he also inspires others with
his creativity and his unique eye on the world.
Think about photography and dedication...Thomas immediately springs to mind.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful images and keep on inspiring. :)"31st March, 2009
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Fireman Johnny says:
"I don't write many testimonials, but in Mr.Hawks case I felt It must be said that he is one, if not the best photographer I have ever had the chance to enjoy on Flickr. His passion and talent as a photographer can be seen in every image or picture he shares with those of us who have lucky enough to of found his collection of inspiring pictures, I especially enjoy how his short descriptions or few words that accompany almost each picture tell a story. His images cover a broad base and in almost every case I am inspired to think about what the picture or his short message means to me in my own life as a Firefighter and human being....Thank you Mr.Hawk for sharing and I appreciate all of the work and true love that is shown in your thought provoking Images...Johnny"
30th March, 2009
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echoman says:
"Thomas Hawk is, simply put, the most captivating and consistently thought provoking photographer on Flickr. He has an amazing eye and a knack for capturing the wonder and diversity of the world through initially innocuous seeming images."
24th March, 2009
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why?whynot?! says:
"Life should be about passion and dedication to what You love. Thomas Hawk is a true example of that philosophy..He has an eye for the beauty in everything and the skill and dedication that make him a true artist behind the camera. He's not afraid to take risks,to question,to learn,to evolve, to challenge... .The end result is always magic.(with catchy titles to boot!)..pure and simple ! What an inspiration....!"
21st February, 2009
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addykelly says:
"Thomas Hawk is the first ever photographer that I call my favourite. I don't know him personally, and vice versa, but I have always liked his pictures. I can only hope that one day I will be as creative as him! Thank you for sharing with me your brilliancy, Mr Hawk! :) [Btw, this is the first testimonial I have ever written on Flickr, too. It isn't the best testimonial you have, for sure, but I hope you count yourself honoured!]"
20th February, 2009
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Jeremy119 says:
"I really admire Thomas Hawk's dedication to photography. His work is utterly inspiring, bringing photography to a different, new level. Along with the quality, his collections contain an amazing amount of photography around the Bay Area and beyond."
11th February, 2009
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bongopix says:
"He calls himself a photography factory, which is ironic, because you normally associate a factory as a dirty and monotonous place. Thomas never produces a dull photo, in fact, he is the Willy Wonka of photography. He manages to produce gorgeous photos on a daily basis. Thomas constantly raises the bar. He is not afraid to change styles and techniques, and sets an example of what photographers should aspire to be."
11th February, 2009
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lets_dothat says:
"I have to stop myself from hitting the favorite button so often. Like, I actually stop and think, wait, you can't do 5 favs in a row. He's brilliant."
4th February, 2009
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Jeremy Brooks says:
"Thomas has the ability to not only produce an amazing quantity of photographs, but also produce with consistently high quality. His subject matter is the world around him. His passion for photography and his willingness to share his photography and knowledge freely is an inspiration!"
28th January, 2009
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Dustin Diaz says:
"I will testify that Thomas' work *is* like a photo factory, which would make a great coffee table book. He is like the human version of Google street view — but rather "Hawk eye view" (for lack of a better pun). I love how I can open up Thomas' photo stream on any day of the week and find a dozen more photos than the last time, and they'll all be fantastic."
18th January, 2009
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geecakes; says:
"he has amazing photopraphs and such inspiring work.
breathtaking photographer!"11th January, 2009
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amerizz[d2hs or d300 both same price USD1000] says:
"only one word.... AMAZING !"
7th December, 2008
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poesis says:
"There is something to be said for art that is found in everything. The age old argument of whether or not art is the depiction of what we see, or the interpretation of what we want reality to be, is erased in Thomas' work. T. evolves beyond these arguments capturing the mundane, the ignoble, the glamorous, the inanimate, the moving, in short frames. Look here and you won't see any one style such as in the I-don't-know-how-to-take-photographs-so-I-just-use-bokeh-all-the-time streams. His lens fits the scene matching the image in his mind's eye... which is where the photography begins; bringing us back to the age old argument of art, however, with absolute harmony."
26th November, 2008
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DanNorthcoteSmith says:
"Consistantly the best photostream on Flickr. It's always a joy to see new pictures in the RSS feed from him and I can't believe how many he takes! He must barely take the camera away from his eye."
12th October, 2008
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Mona N. says:
"Extremely talented, down to earth, funny, compassionate, and humble... TH is in a league of his own. So get lost in his stream - I often do. :)"
9th October, 2008
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4PIZON says:
"Tommy, Tommy, Tommy ! A man with a camera. An eccentric nut. A man trying to taste all the flavors of live, and share them at the same time. A man who understands that photos need to have feeling, not just color, comp, and exposure. A man after my own heart !
To my man Tom!
La Vita Dolce ! Ciao mi amico !!!!!!
`"5th October, 2008
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Abhar Bahrudin says:
"all of your photos amaze me, i love everything in your stream ;)"
30th September, 2008
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FABIAN CORRADO says:
"Thomas Hawk is what got me interested into photography. His photography is simply amazing. By far my favorite photographer. I have setup a blog and will soon be purchasing a camera backpack to carry all my gear with me to capture the world around me. He inspired me to look at the world in a different way. I hope to be able to create a portfolio as good as his someday. I will keep taking pictures, blogging about them, and promoting my work. Its all thanks to Thomas Hawk."
15th September, 2008
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westrock-bob says:
"In an ocean of macro flower shots, inspiring sunsets and cute pet portraits, is a creative, unique and inspiring individual. His name is Thomas Hawk, and I invite you to check out his Flickr photostream... He brings a mountain of creativity to Flickr!"
13th September, 2008
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mbshane [busy as hell, but back soon!] says:
"'Thomas Hawk' is without a doubt, my Flickr hero."
5th September, 2008
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Je Répondrai says:
"The more I see Thomas' streamline, the more I feel motivated towards improving my photographic skills; his work's simply inspiring. It's easy to see how serious he is about photography and also how much he enjoys sharing his work. Hats off to Thomas Hawk!"
19th August, 2008
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rickbutterfield says:
"You, sir, are a great inspiration to me. Wanting to publish 1,000,000 photos is such a large goal, but a great one at that. You make me want to take photos every day of my life."
26th July, 2008
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Annemcx says:
"Thomas' pictures make my eyes happy, his words are pure poetry and he is a complete inspiration. He has a signature style and an eye on the environment around him that is a delight, as a global communicator his work connects his audiences to a world of shape and form that represents so much and is at the same time uniquely his own. He is truly a great photographer."
26th July, 2008
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Space Needle says:
"WOW!!!"
26th July, 2008
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Roaming Vegas says:
"Thomas Hawk's photographs grab your attention - they almost *demand* your attention. He has the gift to find beauty in the mundane and uniqueness in the common. I've learned more about composition from viewing Mr. Hawk's photographs than I ever learned from books or instructors. His photographs are an inspiration."
22nd July, 2008
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Bryan Villarin says:
"Because of Thomas, I carry my camera everywhere. He's a huge inspiration in my photos."
19th July, 2008
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FeltFedora says:
"You are my Flikr God. Seriously your photosteam motivates the hell out of me. I always like to check out what cool stuff your up to. Such an an amazing perspective on the world. Keep it up!"
9th July, 2008
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wir-click-wir says:
"The breadth and quality of Thomas Hawk's work are awe-inspiring. There is never a dull moment in his photostream, and his collection of images are a testament to the power of photography as both a form of documentation and an artistic medium. I find his work inspiring and often life-affirming, and it reminds me why I fell in love with photography."
4th July, 2008
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Sangeeth VS (Catching up...) says:
"I came to know of Thomas Hawk from the Photo Walking videos at PodTech. Though the new videos are not now available at PodTech, I have been keenly following Thomas’ photo stream at Flickr and his blog. I am thoroughly impressed by his photography, especially abstracts & macros. In fact, I started thinking about abstracts & macros only after seeing his photos! Even a screw, nut & bolt or a rusted piece of metal looks so beautiful after he shoots it. But the most important lesson I have learned from him is on visualizing things around you differently. The perspective in which he shoots is something one would never think of. Thank you Thomas, for your wonderful photos and inspiration. Keep firing in all cylinders and all the best! :)"
15th June, 2008
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Liz Marion says:
"I love his shots.
He puts his soul in every one he tooks. His composition is unique.
One of flickr's best photographers.
When I grow up i wanna be like Thomas. :D"22nd May, 2008
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Allan Jones says:
"Right, i don't know Thomas Hawk personally but i do know that his photos and his photography is the best! There are loads of photographers on flickr but every time i log on and see his, i know there going to be good and something worth looking at. I think i have flicked through all his photos now, and only being 16 and thinking of becoming a photographer, they have inspired me! I Love Thomas's photos and when i log on, i look to see if i can get a new desktop wallpaper. lol. Allan :)"
21st May, 2008
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mayfly_66 says:
"THere are many many photographers on Flickr - some are very good but Thomas Hawk is a legend. His pics are the best you can find by far. They are all of excellent standard and many are true gems. I give him the two thumbs up. I dare you to find another photographer as consistently cool as Thomas!!"
4th May, 2008
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Christine Huff says:
"A true artist and "agent provocateur", Thomas embodies the soul of a great comunicator witch is so necessary and rare in this age of information.
I am always inspired and spellbound by his work! !~!~!"1st May, 2008
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subjective_reality says:
"Thomas Hawk = iconic photography! In the real world things don't happen on a microscopic nature! . . .Thomas brings that to us with vivid colors, sharp contrast, and amazing clarity! His work and his eye reminds me why I take photos too."
25th April, 2008
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seawallrunner says:
"Can I fave your profile? No? Then I'll continue faving your photos. You do good work Thomas Hawk."
19th April, 2008
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honey.huckabee says:
"thomas hawk just likes me for my socks.
but it's ok, because i like him just because his last name is hawk."19th April, 2008
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ArghMonkey says:
"I dont know Thomas, never met him and yet hes one of my favourite people on Flickr ..."
16th April, 2008
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Stephen Chinnadorai says:
"I sometimes spend hours flicking through Thomas' pictures - they are simply outstanding. He is one of my inspirations to improve my photography. If you haven't seen this man's photos, prepare to be stunned."
15th April, 2008
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Erica Neal says:
"Thomas Hawk may well be my favorite photographer on flickr. I have yet to fall upon someone whos work speaks to me quite like his does. Between the way he can capture a moment; the colors that are so vivid; the angles. I have a deep addmiration of Mr. Hawk's work."
11th April, 2008
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Ar'alani says:
"This guy is amazing. There is something for everyone in his stream. I adore his pictures of San Francisco--it's like walking down the street, smelling the air, and actually being there. In person, he's fun and a veritable fountain of knowledge. I always look forward to his new work, and am never let down by the vast quantity of fun to be seen."
9th April, 2008
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Everest Ruby says:
"Kind person, your photos brighten up my day and inspire me! Keep it up."
4th April, 2008
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spinningjenny! says:
"I cannot express how unnervingly beautiful your photographs are."
31st March, 2008
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taylorkoa22 says:
"I regularly fav, always view and rarely comment....but that only means I do not have words to express how much I enjoy and am inspired by Thomas' work. He is what a photographer should be....Bad Ass"
30th March, 2008
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tezzr says:
"truly inspirational!"
9th March, 2008
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Notley says:
"Thomas Hawk is a great photographer and a great champion of photographers. Thanks for your hard work and standing up for photographers across the world:)"
8th March, 2008
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LightningMcQueen2007 says:
"hey yow thomas hawk how to upload a photo here that can see many people can u teach how pls..."
7th March, 2008
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jmillerdp says:
"Thomas, Thank you for adding me! I love your photos. Great colors, great definition, and always artistic!"
6th March, 2008
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bryanscott says:
"The only thing more impressive than Thomas Hawk's ambition and commitment to the art of photography is the truly incredible quality of the work he produces. Inspiring stuff."
20th February, 2008
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LA Wad says:
"Magnificent artistry and geometry in every shot. Thomas Hawk is a credit to San Francisco."
17th February, 2008
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Cruz in Cali says:
"ah your pictures inspire me to take more picturessss !!!!!"
9th February, 2008
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Chalky Lives says:
"Hawk is Gold"
3rd February, 2008
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Guy Flâneur says:
"I've been following Thomas's photos since the day I joined Flickr, over 15,000 of my own photographs ago. Frankly, I'm shocked to notice that I'd never written a testimonial, so this is long overdue.
Quite simply, there is no better photographer on Flickr than Thomas. Much of Thomas's early Flickr work took advantage of the spectacular scenery that the San Francisco Bay offers, but his images went far, far beyond the norm, capturing the sights at their most stunning and taking in the soul of the area as well. Thomas has since ventured into many new areas, sometimes quirky, sometimes highly inventive, producing highly creative images of subjects in every genre. His images are always fascinating, sometimes entirely unique and unfailingly artistic.
Go on keeping your thousands of fans captivated, Thomas!"29th January, 2008
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sgrace says:
"Thomas Hawk's images are like a William Carlos Williams poem to me -- composed of clean simple lines and common subjects that evoke much larger ideas and emotions through a heightened perception of reality."
1st January, 2008
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01101001 01100001 01101110 says:
"What has this got to do with trackbacks?"
29th December, 2007
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@ Bradford says:
"When I see an image of Thomas Hawk's, two words come to my mind immediately. Commitment and integrity.
It's Hawk's command of the camera and his command of the art that produces some of the grand images I've seen on Flickr.
It's hard not to be moved by Hawk's commitment to the craft and art of photography. It's like he was born with this mission to give us images to admire."29th December, 2007
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everett taasevigen says:
" Angelo Rizzuto would be proud of your work! I am."
23rd December, 2007
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Matthew Roe Does Not Exist says:
"Thomas Hawk is a god. period."
23rd June, 2007
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treducks says:
"I am a Thomas Hawk fanboy."
14th June, 2007
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Dalmatica says:
"keep shooting, Thomas. this world is a better place because of you."
9th June, 2007
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Kyle H Hailey says:
"A wide eclectic mix of beautiful unexpected momements and compositions, people, places and forgotten nooks.
(PS I think obsession is beautiful as long as my loved one survive it!)"24th May, 2007
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Isowai Todake says:
"slick portraits! thanks for inspiring me sir!"
2nd May, 2007
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CharlieBrown8989 says:
"Thomas
I cannot recalling when I visit his site here & when he fave my images.
But I do know that he have me in common of standing up against by telling those egangster's & ehooligan's of this world! Who make rules by their own whim or with the concerted efforts of the egangsterism acrivities.
In fact in the land of symbol of freedom, demoncracy, with the main focus in making money & be rich quick, scamming, .....submit to the giant's & bully the commoners..etc. Thomas kind of righteous attitude & evergreen character is very very rare indeed!!
I regard him as an advocator of Visual Communication & Imaging freedom pioneer.
On his imaging exhibits, I can see that he already exhibited full talent of a superb imaging Artist. I salute him for his inspirations to the net citizen that including me.
You are a great leader of this Visual Communication & Digital Imaging Era.
I appreciate your everything....."1st May, 2007
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buhri113 says:
"Thomas Hawk is an amazing photographer who should not be overlooked ever!"
26th April, 2007
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Sadie Shooter says:
"Mr Hawk is completely unable to take a bad photograph.
I tried to enroll him in the "bad photography" school but he doesn't have the money at the moment.
We are currently looking for sponsors for this event.
Kidding aside, your captures generally enrapture me. Your entire photostream is like eye-candy. I get lost in it, studying and hoping to take photos this well some day."26th March, 2007
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Andy Frazer says:
"Thomas Hawk (if that's his real name...) has so many testimonials, that I'm afraid no one will ever read mine. But I want to write it anyway...
I admire obsessive people. And Thomas' obsessive drive to photograph events and small neighborhoods has really been an inspiration to me. When my own photographic goals began evolving from snapshots to more of a fine art (cough!... gag!) style, I began to think of neighborhood shooting as too pedestrian. But Thomas has really made me see the value in shooting the local flavor of small neighborhoods from a fine art or photojournalist point of view.
Now, I want to re-discover all of the small neighborhoods that I've been passing through, but not photographing, for the past few decades.
"OCD can be cured, but who gave the drug companies the right to say that it needed to be cured in the first place???""24th March, 2007
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The Naked Artisan says:
"Although I haven't met Thomas in person, his photos always captivate me. He has the power to make the ordinary seem extraordinary. I envy his talent and enjoy his work."
7th March, 2007
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45street | www.victorpuig.com says:
"For me, Thomas Hawk is one of the most interesting Flickr photographers. I visit every day. When I see his pictures I feel that each photo have a story behind. And one of the things that I like more is the sweet light and colors of his pictures."
25th February, 2007
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PFByrne says:
"Every morning, after I pour my first cup of coffee, I sit down at my computer to see what type of genius Mr. Hawk was able to produce while I was sleeping. He is the inspiration for what I hope to become as a photographer: making the ordinary sublime. While some seem to be the beneficiaries of great locations or masters of post-editing, Mr. Hawk is the beneficiary of the most important aspect of photography: a remarkable eye."
20th February, 2007
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Jon Wood says:
"Just viewing Thomas Hawk's photos inspired me to get into photography myself."
4th February, 2007
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stevenewmanphotography.com says:
"Is it just me or does this guy have the best job in the world?"
27th January, 2007
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joaobambu says:
"This is the type of contact I flickr, who I constantly view, and remind myself that it´s not a bad dream to want to be a photographer.
Prolific."30th November, 2006
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David Alpert says:
"Your work truly inspires me."
26th November, 2006
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puja says:
"i get it now. thanks thomas hawk."
16th November, 2006
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zinjixmaggir says:
"Thomas's photographs are a gift to mankind."
22nd October, 2006
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chad™ says:
"Everyday Thomas shows me his life through his photography, and I am constantly amazed. Its remarkable that someone with as many photos as he has, theres nary a "bad" shot in his stream."
18th October, 2006
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Wonderlane says:
"At the airspeed of the unladen South African Swallow Thomas Hawk provides enough radiation to oscillate a glow in this dark cave and warm it's very cockles - sans ether!"
15th September, 2006
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tysonwilliams.com says:
"Thomas Hawk ia ultimate peak of creative manipulation. Very imaginative and often breathtaking photographer who is often full of unexpected balance of colours, composition and subject. You are truly a master of your domain."
4th September, 2006
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Olly Farrell says:
"Thomas Hawk IS flickr."
29th July, 2006
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MyxMaster says:
"I'm continually amazed by the composition of Thomas's photos. I love how he takes a simple everyday scene and frames it in a way that's new and interesting. The title of his photos draw you into them too. Thoughts and emotions you only think about for a split second are captured in his photos beckoning you to relive them. Thomas Hawk is a great photographer."
13th July, 2006
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torbakhopper says:
"ain't much to say that hasn't been said
this man is my EYES in the city
he's also a great person with great heart
thanks for everything you've given to my life, th!!!"23rd May, 2006
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Gabrielle Geiselman says:
"Thomas has a heart and vision that most people only dream of. His true humanity and compassion burst through his images and take your breath away. He is also one of the kindest souls here on Flickr and has the ability to be patient and helpfully critical all at once.
His images are among my favorite...always.
- Gabrielle"20th May, 2006
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WAXY. says:
"Sometimes subtle, sometimes with attitude, Thomas' photography is always effective. His strong technique is only equaled by his mastery to be at the right-place at the right-time, making Mr. Hawk only second to Peter Parker's uncanny ability to get the scoop."
28th April, 2006
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Stevie-B says:
"Don't fuck with Hawk... Seriously; don't do it. Some have tried and come to regret it very quickly.
You have my utmost respect, sir."2nd April, 2006
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Troy McClure SF says:
"I visited Chicago for the first time this past weekend, and upon my return, I checked to see if Mr. Hawk had posted pictures of the Windy City, so I could see it all over again, but alas, I was thwarted."
22nd March, 2006
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[s e l v i n] says:
"Undoubtedly a perfect professional !!!
a good inspiration for amateurs like me.
keep updating Thomas..."22nd March, 2006
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LeggNet says:
"Thomas is the reason I am on Flickr and the reason I began a photoblog. The diversity in his subject matter and the skill he brings serve to inspire me in my photography."
12th March, 2006
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Today is a good day says:
"In my humble view Thomas is one of the very best photographers on Flickr.
In his case a photostream is just that!
....an apparently effortless and endless stream of the most wonderful images. His ability to "see" is astounding."8th February, 2006
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Aaron23 says:
"When Thomas posts his 100,000th image to Flickr, the time/space continuum will rip open and everyone's photos will turn out sepia. That's just five hours from now!"
3rd February, 2006
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sean_alexander says:
"Thomas inspires me to do more with my digital camera, no matter how meager my photo equipment may be :)"
11th January, 2006
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*Sara* says:
"Thomas has to be my very favorite photographer on Flickr. His pictures are fantastic. And I see that everyone agrees!"
3rd January, 2006
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monkeyc.net says:
"Every time I look at my contacts Thomas's work stands out to me - It makes me smile and think and get out there and take more photographs.
He offers a glimpse of another world to those of us in other countries and he does it with wonderful, glorious images of subjects far and wide. Fantastic work and a pleasure to look at. What more could you ask for ?"13th December, 2005
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.Zickie. says:
"Thomas has a magical photographic eye. His images have made me examine the way I look at the world and at my pictures. Phenomenal is one of the words that come to mind, and yet doesn't do his work justice.
He has added so much to the Flickr community and is a contact I'm lucky to have made."23rd November, 2005
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Elinesca says:
"Ladies and Gentlemen - here is my very special testimonial for Thomas, thinking highly of him as I do, edited for the purpose of not playing favorites:
Thomas is one of the finest photographers on Flickr. His work has that rare ability to transcend photography, challenge the entire genre and emerge through fire as art -- art to make you laugh, art to make you cry, but most importantly art to make you think. His particular strength is in photographing plush bridges. Another thing about Thomas, is that his art is unique, it's not your typical sunset or flower but rather provacative photography to challenge our new digital generation. I most heartilly endorse the work of Thomas. He also is a lot of fun to drive around San Francisco with sitting on his lap in a convertible.""22nd November, 2005
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aqui-ali says:
"At the moment of writing this, his avatar was an image of himself with a huge camera lens over one eye. The appropriateness of this shot is notable because Thomas has a permanent photographer's eye, an embedded camera frame that's always scanning the immediate surroundings and isolating the beauty within the banal.
An all-round good guy who is as quietly at ease with kids as he is with a 90-
year-old stranger, and who has taken some of the best bridge, architecture and abstract photos out there.
And yes, a dry wit to boot."22nd November, 2005
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Mr Normal says:
"Mr. Halk has an energy and vigor for photography that is rare. His work will stand the test of time along side greats like Weston, Arbus and Newton. His has an eye for detail that is God given. Also his ablity to express human emotion through the art of reflected light is sensitive yet objective. With a true diplomatic heart he manages the DMU so that it is open forum for ideas great and small.
He does however think I am a person named Frank. I will give him some time to correct this before I approve his testimonial."22nd November, 2005
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BigFrank says:
"Thomas Hawk has an uncanny ability to photograph bridges. No matter where you put him, he seems to find a bridge to photograph. Its really quite astounding."
14th November, 2005
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*omnia* says:
"Since Thomas picked up that camera, his progress in therapy has been amazing. Nothing short of a miracle really. It's a great outlet for his obsessive compulsive disorder, and now he can communicate in pictures as well as grunts. A fantastic photostream :)"
7th November, 2005
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brendadada says:
"Thomas Hawk creates fabulous pictures of feet. The one around the fire set me alight for days."
24th October, 2005
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btezra says:
"~I truly admired the eye that Thomas has, for color, for composition, for the small details that most would just pass by...his images have grown on me and have caused to to start noticing the small details...his cityscape images are some of the best and most creative I have seen...all the best!~"
27th September, 2005
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lorenzodom says:
"mr. hawk has a marvelous way of capturing color by The Bay. in so many ways he evokes a special pining for me, for i have come back to his splendid collection time and time again to get that special taste of a home i once knew. whenever i get the NYC-is-bitter blues, i like to trip his way and spend some time vicariously via his wonderful work in a much kinder, gentler, often brighter place."
13th September, 2005
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tom.arthur says:
"You have a great eye for creative and visually stimulating images. I really enjoyed seeing Disneyland, (a place I work daily) from another viewpoint. Really brings the magic back with surreal nature of the images. Thanks for sharing your work!"
1st June, 2005























