It's a another gorgeous day to take a closer look

I don't know what you do when the sun is out and the flowers are basking in the warmth, but I like to grab my macro lens and take a closer look. With so much available light, macro photography doesn't require tremendously slow and challenging shutter speeds (when one small breeze comes through and the image is no longer sharp).

What's so fun about macro photography is what you'll find once you get up close. Nature seems to always be full of surprises:

 

 

My NMC Photo Safari Highlights

Sunrise view of the Tetons from Oxbow Bend...

I’ve always enjoyed photography, so I viewed the invitation to participate in the recent NMC Photo Safari in Jackson, Wyoming, as a chance to take my photography skills to the next level. It was exactly that – and so much more.

I arrived to the event in a state of excitement mixed with a feeling of impending intimidation. After all, I’ve seen Larry Johnson’s photography, and could only imagine what a room filled with photographic talent might be like. The excitement was well deserved; but the NMC Photo Safari was anything but intimidating. I attribute the success of the Safari to three factors:

AMAZING PEOPLE

Over the years I’ve collected thousands of photos – and thousands of questions. Trolling the internet for answers to simple “how to” questions is easy. But finding answers to questions I didn’t even know I had is a rarity. It takes a conversation – and the NMC Photo Safari was FULL of conversation, from before the crack of dawn to the relaxing hours after dinner.

The professionals at the event were stellar, and they shared their experiences (and photography examples) freely. What a unique experience it was to be able to interrupt a photo shoot in action and say, “Uh, why are you doing that? What settings are you using? Why did you set up here?”

Many thanks to Bill Frakes for his insights and travel stories; to Scott Diussa (Nikon Professional Services) for a myriad of practical tips about tools and shooting video with DSLR’s; to Robin Elledge, an experienced professional photographer, photography instructor, and our local “guide”; Thomas Mangelsen, who graciously agreed to provide an open house at his gallery in town with jaw-dropping images and who provided helpful critiques of our work; and NMC’s Larry Johnson, who I consider to be a professional photographer even though he actually has a day job as CEO of NMC.

Shadows of lurking photographers during an early morning shoot...

But it wasn’t just the professionals who were amazing. Regardless of their level of experience, each of the attendees was amazing in their own way. Coming from various life experiences that span age 17 to infinity (that’s a photographer’s polite way of saying, “way out there”), everyone was joined by a common, earnest interest and enthusiasm for learning more. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas and perspective with me.

AN AMAZING PLACE

A safari is obviously only as good as the place itself. Sure you can find opportunities to find and create great images anywhere, but there is definitely something unique about Grand Teton National Park. From dramatic snow-covered craggy mountains to majestic open spaces, the region is a treasure to behold – especially when the tourists haven’t descended on the small town of Jackson.

While it would be a wonderful place to visit regardless of the weather, I have to admit that I was rejoicing that the rainy/snowy weather from just days before was transformed into clear-sky mornings and near spring-like days. Whoever made these arrangements should be heartily congratulated.

AMAZING PHOTOS

Finally, the artistic talent of my fellow “students” and the professionals was truly stunning. The anonymous photos projected during the evening “critique” sessions and the professional images that were part of the professionals’ “story telling” often brought ooohs and aaaahs from the intimate audience – and for good reason. There was something about learning alongside people who are positive and enthusiastic about what you’re attempting to do that brings out the best in everyone.

"Light painting" an abandoned barn during an evening shoot...

By the end of two and half intensive days (40 hours of “experience” with plenty of adrenaline to make up for the sleep deprivation), I can say without reservation that I returned home informed, encouraged, and inspired.

To “give back”, I include in my full article (PDF) extracts from my “field notes” that I picked up along the way, with plenty of interesting tidbits that will keep me busy until the next time I attend an NMC Photo Safari. I share these with you in hopes that they serve you well, too…

With gratitude,

Jim Vanides

www.vanidesphotography.com

More photos from all the Safari participants are being
posted in Flickr. You can view them below:

 

http://www.flickr.com/search/?q=nmcphotosafari%20jh

With Gratitude to the Mothers I Know

The unconditional love of a mother

Is remarkable to behold

and priceless to receive...

I do not have the words to adequately express my gratitude for the mothers that I know. May your special day be filled with Love and Affirmation...