BRING THE OUTDOORS INDOORS THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

(field work in photography for enjoyment or work)

Long after the actual outdoor experience is over and we have again entered the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the memories kept alive about that experience are very meaningful to each of us. That is why photography plays such a big part in many sportsmen and women’s lives.

(red efts following a rainy period)

Just viewing a snapshot of a past experience often conjures up certain details of that trip. We can even go as far as to say that it may even bring into play the other senses of the body. Have you ever looked at your photos of a camping trip and feel as though you were right there and could smell the campfire smoke or hear the water rushing over the falls? 

(Red Trillium taken on a spring trout fishing trip)

Perhaps you view a photograph of wild flowers and you recall finding the forest floor covered with Trilliums and remember just how strong their scent was on that day.

(fat little toad found along the trail)

Perhaps you have a shot of a frog or a toad that reminds you of the time one crawled into you friend’s sleeping bag and all the antics your friend went through to get it out. One summer camping trip my cousin, Steve, had just that happen. During the early morning hours a large toad crawled into his sleeping bag next to his bare leg and Steve shot out of his sleeping bag and upended the sleeping bag, to shake out the toad, in very quick order. The poor toad had no idea what the commotion was about. Once toad was out, Steve crawled back in and went back to sleep.

(bog life, the pitcher plants)

Photos can be a delightful way to share your experiences with others. Today photography is so simple anyone can be successful and have great results. Digital cameras have pretty much replaced film cameras, however some of us carry both. I have been using a Canon EOS system for a few years. I have two SLR camera bodies, one with a macro zoom lens in the 70-300 mm range on one body and the other has a 28-75 mm lens. I also have started carrying a small Canon digital camera for those quick snapshots along the trail or around camp. Eventually I will switch entirely over to digital as many others have already done.

(tree frog on a fallen leaf)

Sometimes just taking a day for a photo safari into the back country can be a very rewarding time. Make sure you take what you need, such as tripod, lens cleaner, etc. and carry your equipment in a secure and protected backpack. You would be surprised that no matter how careful you try to be, there is a certain amount of bumping and abuse to the equipment, if not properly protected. Once you finish shooting photos, then sit back and enjoy the results.

THE WHOLE INTENT OF THIS ADIRONDACK BLOG IN THE FIRST PLACE

     My intent is to keep each post approximately within the length of the first post and this posting. I will also post articles from my weekly outdoor column that has first appeared in Lake Champlain Weekly magazine and that are appropriate to the post of the day.

(canoeing on one of our lakes)

     There is always room for dessert! If you are like me, you love to view photographs from others. Photographs will also appear to augment the writing.
     I am an outdoor writer. This means that I write on all aspect of the outdoors. I certainly write on the hiking, snowshoeing, canoeing and skiing that our region has to offer, but also realize that I write on hunting, fishing and all other aspects of the outdoor activities our mountains and lakes have to offer.

(Granddaughter panfishing)

     I am a firm believer that all outdoors men and women can pursue their chosen sport and coexist peaceably with one another. We all stand to lose way too much if we allow dissension among ourselves.

(small game hunting)

  

 That being said, however, I also believe there is room for lively, respectful discussion among us on many different levels and topics. I look forward to your comments. I do not look forward to dealing with any swearing, vulgarities, sexist remarks, disrespect, inappropriate comments, name calling or anything I deem offensive.

(backwoods deer camp)