The Other Side of Light

Mike Beltrami Photography

​​​In 1981, as a photography student at RIT, I was assigned a photojournalism essay on a topic of my choice.  The circus was coming and I contacted them about my project.  They were very supportive and offered me a choice of topics.   I chose Buck Nolan, the world’s tallest clown.  Photographing Buck during those 3 days and 6 shows allowed me to capture a unique look into the circus life of a very unique man.  For 36 years I’ve kept the negatives safe, knowing that one day I’d revive my project.   With the help of digital technology I have completed the restoration my favorite images.  I’m happy to now  share these images with you.

These images are dedicated to the memory of Buck Nolan, The World’s Tallest Clown!  1936 - 2004