A Natural Media Photo Tour

ZenOptic is a frame of mind that allows one to capture digital media from the natural world while enjoying total immersion in the experience. Too often we view nature as other than us; our focus becomes limited to that which we see through the lens or binoculars. We relish our end product and forget the joy of the process. We apply techniques without appreciation of that which we are witnessing. And we go away no different that when we came. Our ìsuccessî is measured by our trophies. Perhaps we can see things differently, be more inclusive, more harmonious. If we allow ourselves to hear and smell and see everything around us maybe we can feel our connection and move to a consciousness of joy and gratitude. How different our photos would be if every frame was a testament to creationís inherent bliss.

This workshop is a chance to experiment with new techniques, new ways of seeing, new ways of being in nature. Experiencing dawn in the wetlands is a chance to re-connect with the awakening that the natural world enjoys every day. There is the quiet and anticipation of the coming light, the stirring of creatures preparing to venture out from the safety of their communal roosts. If we are fortunate enough to be in the presence of cranes we may watch them awaken to socialize, play, preen and dance. We can share the excitement as they awaken and begin their day. The sounds increase, a slowly building crescendo. Then families and tribal groups signal their intent to fly to the grain fields to eat. The anticipation is palpable. The attentive witness hears the negotiation toward consensus, sees the subtle physical communication and prepares to capture the glorious moment of early morning first flight. Calls resound throughout the marsh as the cranes say goodbye to the roost and anticipate the new day.

Then they are all, or mostly all, gone. The time available to capture photographs and video of this daily extravaganza may only be a few minutes. It is possible to extend that time by using low light shooting techniques and maximizing every opportunity. Predicting and anticipating the wetland morning routines can bring the photographer to a state of heightened readiness so that action can be recorded and the moments captured.

There is a Natural Media / ShareTheRoad Productions tutorial available to help the photographer grapple with the many challenges of dawn shooting. It is highly recommended that the techniques be practiced prior to the workshop. As one becomes familiar with the technical aspects more attention can be devoted to the rhythm of the dawn.

From the tutorial

In position awaiting the light a special opportunity†reveals itself. For a long, cold moment a chance to feel another world, the natural world, is offered. It can be attended to or it can be squashed and wasted by thoughts of technique and the challenges that lay ahead. It is a special moment. A rare quiet of the mind as thoughts and concerns about the task soon to come are subsumed; allowed to be stilled and geared into perspective by the machinery of the wild as it sings and whirls through the vastness coming into view. This is the cherished moment. Rarely spoken of but deeply felt. This is the moment that brings it all into perspective. With the ceaseless mental chatter quelled and the senses expanding out from a still point of clarity, nature dawns.

See the Tutorial

It would be my pleasure to join you in the wetlands for the dawn.

For private tours, click here.

Lon (LA) Yarbrough