American Christmas Book
Several years ago, we received an email from Danelle Manthey, a professional photographer from New York City. For over a decade, she has traveled the country to capture the essence of American Christmas. She does this through photographs of people and their Christmas lights. She was contacting us to inquire about visiting our display, so we set a time for her to visit. We looked forward to seeing what she would come up with. We take interest in people’s projects and enjoy learning what makes them important.
The Origin of “American Christmas”
Danelle developed her passion for Christmas lights while living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. During the holiday season of her childhood she remembers boarding the family car to drive through neighborhoods decorated with twinkling Christmas lights. The local newspaper provided a festive map for families to explore streets renamed to Candy Cane Lane and Penguin Lane. The displays from that time were modest compared to modern productions, but they created lasting memories.
While on a holiday visit with her family many years later Danelle was back in the backseat next to her sister as they had done in the past. That moment sparked an idea. Her sister suggested she photograph the lights. When her first attempt didn’t meet her vision she returned to Sioux Falls in 2005 with more advanced equipment and a solid plan. After making that commitment she spent every holiday season traveling to capture displays in 12 different states.
A Christmas Community
During her journey, Danelle discovered a lively online community of Christmas decoration enthusiasts. As she explored further, she engaged with passionate individuals through platforms like blogs, forums, and social media. There, decorators shared their ideas, offered advice, and spent countless hours discussing maintenance, upgrades, and creative collaboration. Over time, Danelle came to realize that these Christmas light displays represented far more than festive illumination. Rather, they embodied a unique blend of creativity, dedication, and a deep sense of connection among people who shared a common passion.
She remembers those individuals who embraced her warmly. People she didn’t know let her enter their homes for portraits while permitting her to photograph their creations. Her objective extended beyond recording their lights to reveal the personal stories and individual characteristics behind them. Her passion evolved into photographing both the Christmas lights and their creators as she explains. As time passed I developed an understanding of their work as a unique branch of American folk art.
“American Christmas” is Published
Danelle released *American Christmas* in 2020 as a celebration of remarkable individuals and their artistic dedication. She explains that the book honors those who dedicate their time and talents for making others happy. Through this work emerges a memorable fusion of visual imagery with compelling narratives which illuminates the communal bonds and traditional practices that drive each decorated residence.
“My images are just a glimpse into this world,” she says. “They are offered in the hope I have captured its spirit as well.”
Check out the details of the book, and pick up your copy, at American Christmas Book. This is not just a photography book. The text and photographic content meld together to show the complete story of the lights and the people behind them.
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Permission for use has been provided by Danelle Manthey.