By Ann Nichols Arts Writer

Dan Williams’ desire has always been to create fine-art photographs that resemble paintings.

“I think I have accomplished that goal,” he said. “I often hear art collectors tell me that they have never considered purchasing a photo but that my photographs are more like paintings than photos.”

Perfect Light Gallery in Pikeville, Tenn., will host a solo exhibition of Mr. Williams’ photographs beginning Friday. Titled “Feathered Friends,” the show features color photographs of birds in various settings.

Mr. Williams says that his pictures are more about composition and color than bird photography. They are stunningly beautiful in terms of color, and the placement of the bird as focal point is masterful.

His inspiration has come not from other photographers but from painters such as Fenwick Landsdowne, members of the Hudson River Valley School and western landscape artists from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

“I often encourage young photographers to put away their photo journals and visit a museum of art,” he said.

A full-time photographer of birds for more than 35 years, Mr. Williams has won the grand prize twice in the Audubon Photo Competition, and his work is included in the Ward Museum of Wildlife Art and the Havre de Grace Museum.

“Feathered Friends” will remain on display through May 31. An opening reception will be held 6-8 p.m. CT Friday.

Perfect Light Gallery, 421 Spring St., is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday. For information, call (423) 447-3029.