Adams developed his pioneering techniques for creating rotogravure images through experimentation in his own printing plant, the Photogravure and Color Company in New York City. He created a photogravure printing process that resulted in higher quality images that could be reproduced quickly and cheaply.
With his improved printing techniques, Adams set out to challenge the notion of photography as mere “snapshots” and instead establish the medium as a fine art. Adams published and exhibited his own photography and the work of the foremost photographers of the day.
Adams' work earned him an award at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and a gold medal at the 1915 San Francisco Exposition. He also enjoyed a successful career as an author, editor, and publisher.