Happy National Nature Photography Day!
I like to take photos, normally of people or pets. I’m not a great photographer, so my nature shots are nothing special. However, I love to look at nature photographs and am quite impressed by those who can capture nature’s beauty, mystery, and power in a static scene.
Do you like nature photographs? Do you take any yourself? What sort of camera do you have? I use my iPhone. I friend of mine just bought more lenses for his SLR camera, but he hates carrying the weight when he goes on six-mile walks with his dogs. I’ve seen his photos, and I think he’s good. Carrying the gear may be heavy, the results can be worth it.
I currently have a framed close-up of a grizzly bear face by my bed. It came from a calendar, but I loved the picture, so I kept it. I hope the photographer of that bear had a large zoom lens and didn’t get too close. The bear’s eyes seem to be are studying my soul.
National Nature Photography Day was created by the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA) in 2006. The group was founded in 1994. I’m sure their pictures are wonderful.
Here are ten ways to celebrate the holiday:
- Go for a walk and bring your camera.
- Read a photography blog, listen to a podcast about taking nature pictures, or watch some YouTube videos about technique.
- Clean your camera lens, either on your phone or with another camera.
- Look at some professional wildlife photograph books.
- Find a lovely nature picture and make it your computer or phone wallpaper.
- Invite a friend to go for a walk and see who takes the best picture of nature.
- Watch a National Geographic documentary, or one like Planet Earth (not all pictures have to be static.)
- With Shutterfly or another company, turn some of your nature photos into wall canvases, mugs, or other useful items.
- If your photos are professional quality, consider using CafePress or TeePublic to put your photos on a shirt for others to buy.
- Post some of your nature photos online for others to enjoy.