A Legacy of Art, Connection, and Inspiration
Stefani is not just a name; it's a story that began with a boy's fascination for light and shadow and grew into a legacy of artistry, love, and connection. At its heart was Richard Stefani, the founder of Stefani Photography, a visionary photographer whose passion for capturing a "moment in time" defined a lifetime. Today, that legacy continues, carried forward by his wife and creative partner, Christina Stefani, through The Stefani Gallery. This contemporary art space honors Richard's memory while embracing new artistic horizons.
Humble Beginnings: A Boy, a Camera, and a Dream
Richard Stefani's love for photography was sparked by his Uncle Floyd, an amateur photographer during the Great Depression. The enchantment of freezing a moment in time captivated young Richard, and this fascination grew stronger during his service in the Korean War. While stationed on Naval ships, he observed embedded photographers in action and experimented in the ship's darkroom. On leave, he captured the beauty of Hawaii and Japan, documenting his experiences with his first camera.
Returning home in 1953, Richard managed the family business, Stefani Lumber Co., in Canby, Oregon, but his heart yearned for the art of photography. Even while running the lumberyard, he began photographing the world around him, including the historic last fishing ceremonies at Celilo Falls in 1956, using his Yashica Mat and Ricohflex cameras.
A Leap of Faith: Stefani Photography is Born
By 1962, Richard's passion could no longer be contained. Leaving the family lumber business, he managed Hausen Photography in Woodburn, Oregon, a decision met with mixed reactions from his family. Five years later, in 1967, he took a bold step and purchased the business, renaming it Stefani Photography.
From the start, Richard's studio was a place of artistry and connection. He quickly built a reputation for creating stunning portraits that captured the soul of his subjects, alongside fine art pieces that celebrated the beauty of the world around him. By 1973, he moved his studio to the bustling corner of Liberty and Lincoln in Salem, Oregon, cementing his presence in the community.
Becoming a Legend: A Life Behind the Lens
Over the next three decades, Richard became a household name in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. His portraiture became synonymous with excellence, and his fine art photography was showcased nationwide. U.S. Presidents Nixon and Ford and photography legends like Imogen Cunningham sat for his lens.
But Richard's contributions went far beyond his own work. He was a teacher, mentor, and advocate for the art of photography, lecturing throughout the United States and Canada. Under his "Foto Info" moniker, he inspired countless budding photographers, sharing his techniques and business insights with authenticity and warmth.
Richard's collaborations with photographic luminaries such as Jay Dusard, Henry Gilpin, and John Sexton enriched his artistry and cemented his place among the greats. His role as an emcee for the Professional Photographers of Oregon and as a judge for international competitions reflected his dedication to elevating the craft.
A New Chapter: Love and Art
In 2001, Richard met Christina, an artist, art director, and graphic designer. The two quickly became partners in life and art. Christina brought her creative vision to the studio, assisting with portraits and weddings and helping expand the scope of the business.
In 2005, Richard pivoted from traditional portraits and weddings to focus on fine art photography. Renaming the business Stefani Fine Art, he embraced the evolving digital photography landscape while maintaining his dedication to quality and authenticity. From his home gallery, he continued to share his work with collectors and enthusiasts, cementing his legacy as a master artist.
The Rebirth: The Stefani Gallery
On Christmas Day, 2022, Richard Stefani passed away, leaving behind a body of work that spanned over 55 years and touched countless lives. But his story did not end there. In 2025, Christina reopened The Stefani Gallery in downtown Salem, Oregon. Located at the corner of Commercial and Court Street, the gallery blends contemporary design with Richard's timeless legacy, showcasing exceptional works from emerging, established, and legendary artists.
The gallery stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, connect, and transform. Its mission is to champion the visual arts through thoughtfully curated exhibitions, engaging programs, and a commitment to fostering a vibrant community of art enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Light and Connection
Richard Stefani's journey is one of courage, creativity, and connection—a life devoted to capturing the beauty of a single moment and sharing it with the world. His work continues to inspire through The Stefani Gallery, where his legacy lives on, celebrated by collectors, artists, and admirers alike.
Visit us today to explore Richard Stefani's rich history and breathtaking artistry and discover how The Stefani Gallery is carrying his vision forward into the future.