Writing Is Only Half The Story
Then there is the photography–a creative form of expression with which I have had an on again, off again love affair since childhood.
A few years ago I found myself on the emotional outs with my no frills, point and shoot camera. I wanted more than it was meant to be or could ever give me. [Que the violins!]
My husband, having noted my frustration (and possibly fearing I would soon launch my P&S off the balcony) gifted me with my first DSLR. And I have never looked back. (Though he has voiced one or two regrets.)
I would have preferred to burst into the world of photography in full bloom. But have settled for showing gradual improvement over time through every new skill acquired, and concept learned. Though he doesn’t know it, I owe alot to National Geographic Fellow/Photographer Joel Sartore and his Great Courses photography series.
I did a brief stint as an art major in college, but I had never taken a photography course until I came across Joel Sartore’s Great Courses series. It gave me the building blocks I needed to get started, and continues to serve as a great refresher and kick in the rear when I need inspiration.
About a year after I began my journey with a DSLR, my husband gifted me a week with a National Geographic Photography Workshop. It was an incredible experience exploring photography with 20+ other photogs while seeking inspiration and guidance from National Geographic Photographer Ralph Lee Hopkins and others on staff.
Speaking of Nat Geo. Anyone that grew up reading travelogues of famous explorers or used National Geographic Magazine, Smithsonian Magazine, or National Geographic Travel as their conduit to the wide world knows innately that travel, exploration, and photography go hand in hand.
My desire to effectively capture my impressions of the locations and peoples I visit has served as motivation to improve. Improve not only my photography skills, but more importantly, my photographer’s ‘eye.’
Many travel/photography blogs post only their most breathtaking photographs. And for that I am thankful. For those photographs serve as a catalyst inspiring me to continue traveling–and make better photographs. But more than that, through those photographer’s eyes I have an opportunity to experience the power, and the beauty of distant corners of the world that might otherwise remain out of my reach.
I hope I will, from time to time be lucky enough to create one of those awe-inspiring photographs. But be forewarned. I will also share photographys that tickle my funny bone. Those representing the less than perfect. (You know that moment just before you were ready to have your picture taken?)
Such photographs are usually laughter inducing. [And who doesn’t need a good laugh these days?] But more importantly I want to show that the reality of travel is more than just picture perfect moments captured in time. It’s also all the little (and sometimes large) hiccups in between those perfect shots that makes the story.
By following A CURIOUS TREKKER BLOG you will not only follow along on my treks, but you will also share in my journey as a photographer.
Join me on my trek!
[PS If you still have some time, check out my TRAVEL TIPS section and learn a bit more about how I got into blogging HERE.]
Photograph: Heading back after a day on the beach. Tangier Island, VA