Pence's work consists of traditional chemical photographs and interactive objects and installations. He explore the materiality of photography and its processes to question how photographs are viewed and considered. As an educator, Pence seeks to inform and include audiences in these explorations and create curiosity surrounding the matter behind the photographic magic. Interactive objects and demonstrations are recent materials through which he invites viewers to experience the photographic craft first hand. Pence's research illustrates his understanding that photographs are not that which they show, but rather are that which has been seen and nurtured; that a photograph has always come from the hands of a craftsperson.