Phil Buchanan

Phil was a longtime resident of Bolinas, CA, where lived with his wife, Judy, and where they raised their children. Phil passed away in September 2019, after a battle with Pancreatic cancer. He always felt fortunate to be part of an a tight knit community, surrounded by nature, friends and family. This was especially so during his illness. He worked and volunteered for a variety of local organizations. He was proud to say he has worked at Commonweal, the BCPUD, volunteered on the board for the Bolinas FPD, among others. 

Before moving to Bolinas in 1977, Phil worked in non-profit and commercial broadcasting for over 20 years in a career that took him from his native West Virginia through the Midwest and on to San Francisco in 1968, where he worked for several years for Metromedia’s local affiliate, KSAN.

Phil's adventurous spirit and inquisitive mind led him to grab a camera, and document the beautiful scenes he came across, whether city or wilderness. He had a unique perspective and a keen eye. He was always interesting in discovering new places, learning about history and current events, and broadening his horizons. He took great satisfaction in refining and elevating his craft.

Phil’s family have always been huge fans of his photography, and as they grieve him, they have found comfort and connection in his photographs. Such a gift to be able to still see the world through his eyes.

The month before Phil died, he and his daughter, Breanna, discussed creating a website platform from which to sell his photographs. A year and half earlier, just prior to his cancer diagnosis, he’d had his first gallery showing ever, and received wonderful feedback. The idea of a website was on the coattails of that show. Now, this website, and sale of his photograph will be a tribute to him, a legacy, and a way to honor the thoughtful way he viewed and approached the world. He would appreciate being able to continue to contribute financially to his family. He was a generous, philanthropic man, so a portion of proceeds will also go to organizations such as Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

His family hopes his photographs inspire a sense of wonder, adventure, patience, and humor.