Welcome to On the Road Photography!
Hey there, I'm Jay R. Nicols, the person behind On the Road Photography. Traveling far and wide, I immerse myself in the less-traveled paths to bring you unique and awe-inspiring images that celebrate the world's beauty. I take pride in offering a diverse array of products, from select prints to original pieces, limited editions, and various merchandise, all showcasing my photography. Whether you seek a art piece to adorn your space or a special gift for someone dear, I'm confident that you'll discover something truly special in my collection. Each photo I capture tells a story, and I'm thrilled to share these visual narratives with you through On the Road Photography. Join me on this journey of exploration and appreciation of the world's wonders.
At On The Road Photography, I will present to you an array of carefully edited images that are ready to transport you to the captivating destinations I have explored. My diverse collection of photographs showcases landscapes, seascapes, and cityscapes from the picturesque locales of Grand Haven, the great State of Michigan, Savannah, Charleston, Bermuda, the Western Caribbean, the Eastern Caribbean, Italy, Monaco, France, Puerto Rico, Seattle, Alaska, and Hawaii. Each photograph serves as a testament to the beauty and serenity found on the open road, reflecting the string of firsts I have experienced during my travels – from embarking on my first solo European trip, the inaugural cruise to nowhere, to the debut visits to Alaska, Hawaii, Seattle, Charleston, and Savannah. I have hit the road with wanderlust abandon!
My photography artfully captures the essence of these remarkable places, evoking a profound sense of tranquility, harmony, and fascination. Each image resonates with a compelling narrative, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery and experience the allure of these extraordinary destinations.
At On The Road Photography, we believe in providing a versatile viewing experience for our audience. Our online platform offers a glimpse into the world through our lens, with a focus on digital content while also extending to print sales and apparel options. While not all our photographs that you will see during the visual viewing experience are currently available for purchase in our print shop, I am committed to expanding our print catalog with new images on a weekly basis.
As an individual immersed in the art of capturing the road less traveled, the decision to sell my photographs is guided by a simple premise - to share my passion with the community. Through this endeavor, I aim to not only showcase the beauty of the unexplored and explored paths but also to give back to society. With each purchase made, I pledge to allocate 10 percent towards various charitable causes. This initiative is deeply rooted in my belief that through the fusion of my two passions - photography and helping others - I can make a tangible difference.
Photography has served as a transformative force in my life, shaping my perspective and allowing me to connect with the world in a profound manner. By extending a portion of the proceeds from my prints to charitable organizations, I actively contribute to causes that hold significant meaning for me, especially Mosaic Counseling in Grand Haven. They support the community in allocating mental health support for over 30 years. It is that type of community driven organization that I strive to help and become.
For me, it's about spreading love and support through photography. Every photograph I take, every moment I capture, is a labor of love. From the travel, to the adrenaline of capturing that special moment, to the meticulous editing to selecting the perfect paper for our prints, to how it is packaged and delivered, I pour my heart and soul into every image.
Through this platform, we aspire to underscore the impactful role that photography can play in effecting positive change. Join us on this journey where art meets altruism, and together, we can make a meaningful difference in the world around us.
My Backstory
A Journey of Self-Discovery | Four years ago, I found myself at a crossroads in a duplex in Hamtramck, Mich. It was a pivotal moment when I thought I had to choose between life and death, thankfully I chose life. This decision stayed with me, shaping my path for years to come. After leaving the psychiatric hospital, I made a decision to seek further assistance. I found an amazing therapist who has become my rock. Every week, I meet with her to talk and she helps keep me grounded. It's been three years now, and I can confidently say that seeking therapy was the best decision I made in that moment. Through therapy, I rediscovered myself, learned to believe in myself, and started prioritizing self-care. It has made a significant difference in my life, and I am grateful to be writing this welcome letter today. Embracing the inner journey of self-care and self-belief has opened up new possibilities for me, allowing me to pursue my passions without holding back. It's truly liberating, and I am thankful for the life I have today.
I would like to take this time to express my gratitude to a few individuals. Firstly, I am immensely grateful to my Mother, who, in her own right, was a photographer and documented our adventures while growing up. Her passion for photography rekindled my own, and for that I am truly thankful. Secondly, a special thanks is owed to Chris Kuhatschek. The creative genius behind the logo of On the Road Photography, Chris was able to bring to life the vision I had in mind, which now serves as the focal point of our 'Wear the Journey' series. Thank you, Chris, for your exceptional work. Lastly, but certainly not least, I extend my appreciation to all my family and friends. Without your support and encouragement, this would have been a lot harder to accomplish. Thank you to all of you, while too numerous to name individually, you all know who you are. I am grateful for your acceptance of my unconventional ideas and way of life. Your support means the world to me.
The Print Shop: Quality, Craftsmanship, and Convenience | At On The Road Photography, we take great pride in the careful selection of the images we print, ensuring that your chosen artwork is vivid, stunning, and timeless. To maintain the highest standard, we employ a meticulous process and top-of-the-line equipment. Our image selection process is curated with attention to detail, artistic excellence, and visual impact. We aim to offer a collection that speaks to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring there's an image for every home and aesthetic. We are committed to offering prints that stand the test of time. That's why we use Hahnemuhle FineArt archival paper, known for its exceptional quality and longevity. Additionally, our Canon imagePRO 300 printer guarantees precise and detailed reproductions of each image. For metal prints, we utilize chromaluxe metal gloss blanks, employing a heat press to create prints that are not only durable but also exquisitely vibrant. This process ensures that the colors and details of the original images are faithfully preserved on the metal surface.
Ensuring Your Prints Are Ready for Display | At On The Road Photography, we believe that the final touches are just as important as the print itself. That's why we take great care in matting our prints with linen hinge tape, providing a professional and refined presentation. This meticulous process not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for the easy removal of the print from the matte, giving you the option to frame it independently. Our attention to detail ensures that your print arrives ready to be framed, displayed, and admired in all its glory.
We recognize that the journey from purchasing a print to displaying it in your home should be seamless. Whether you choose a custom frame from your local framer or a ready-made option from a well-known retailer, the choice is entirely yours. Our goal is to provide you with the flexibility to effortlessly complement your decor and personal style. At On The Road Photography, our unwavering commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction is reflected in every aspect. When you bring our prints into your home, you can be confident that you're not just bringing in an image but a meticulously crafted piece of art - thoughtfully presented for your enjoyment.
And now, we're excited to announce our 'Wear the Journey' merchandise. Our t-shirts and hoodies allow you to carry a piece of our photography with you, sharing the joy of the world wherever you go.
Wear the Journey Series: A Blend of Artistry and Beauty | ‘Wear the Journey’ is a series of t-shirts and hoodies that represent the journey I’ve been on since we started the concept of On the Road Photography in 2021. Now that we have arrived at this moment, we want to share our photographs in more ways than prints. Reimagine the way our photographs appear in the world. Wear the Journey was an idea born with that in mind, creating a design that was not only appealing to the eye, but also a beautiful photograph to adorn it. With that, we chose to swap out the background of our primary logo with one of our photographs. And once we saw it, we knew we had a winner. From the Road to your Home, share the journey with everyone I know.
See the Journey Series: A Transport to Calm and Serenity | ‘See the Journey’ is a series of softcover photograph books that highlight the journey of On the Road Photography. I have been lucky enough to travel to some very cool places over the past few years. All of these journey’s were firsts for me. Seeing the world for the first time, the adventures were plentiful and photographic. It is inside these books that you will get to see the adventure first hand. From the cliffside villages of the Italian Riviera to the majestic rolling hills of Tuscany to the majestic sunsets in Puerto Rico, each book will take you to that destination. From the Road to your Home, view the journey from your coffee table.
Framed Collection: A Blend of Artistry and Craftsmanship | At On the Road Photography, our framed collection is a curated mix of prints, meticulously crafted to showcase the finest in photography and framing. Each piece in this collection embodies the fusion of artistry and meticulous attention to detail. Custom framed at our trusted local partner, The Frame and Mat Shop, these original photography prints have been carefully chosen to highlight the harmonious interplay between the photograph and its frame. From pearl to metallic prints, every aspect has been thoughtfully considered to ensure a captivating visual experience.
The framing process involves an intricate dance of color matching and visual synergy. Each mat is carefully selected to complement the image, creating a captivating and harmonious blend. This meticulous approach results in a collection of 15 or so framed photographs that will be on display at the Walburg Gallery, located adjacent to Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven, Mich., from April 1, 2024, for the entire month. Join us on a journey through the art of photography and framing, where every piece tells a story of artistry, craftsmanship, and boundless creativity. While not sold out as the photos above will make you believe, they are just on hold until we display them at the Walburg Gallery at Gallery Uptown in Grand Haven, Mich., starting April 1, 2024. There, they will be available for sale to the public. After the exhibit, all framed prints that were not sold, will be available on our website starting May 1, 2024. This marks the beginning of our commitment to delivering exceptional framed prints, with new additions introduced as inspiration weaves its creative magic.
So if you're looking for a unique and beautiful way to support a good cause, I invite you to explore my collection at On the Road Photography. Every purchase you make helps me continue my journey, both as a photographer and as an advocate for positive change in the world. Your support enables me to keep pursuing my passion, and I'm truly grateful for the opportunity to share my work with you. Thank you for your support!
On the Road Photography is located in Grand Haven, Michigan in the historic Piano Factory building, now know as Harbor Front Place. Our location is ideal in Downtown Grand Haven, giving us access to the greatest lakeshore in Michigan. Our studio is not open to the public, but when in town feel free to come on by and say hi. We have a great brewery in the building, Odd Side and their Artisian Cafe, Side Bar is a great morning coffee spot. Our office is located on the third floor, suite 315. Our studio includes a showroom for our framed photographs and prints as well as other On the Road Photography products, nut no sales can occur in person, not yet.
Possible Studio Hours:
Monday - Friday | 10am - 6pm, or not
Saturday | 9am - 12pm, if I’m not boating, golfing, or skiing
Sunday | No chance I’m around
