Finding Your Inner Artist - What You Discover May be Greater than You Imagined

Home Office by Sheen Watkins

What do you remember about the long, two hour meeting you sat through a year ago?  

You know the one. 

There was death by Powerpoint.  There was a lot of multi-syllable corporate speak followed by scurrying to update action items and craft emails.  

Truthfully, we probably don't remember much about that meeting unless something crazy-cool or unique happened (or we took a lot of notes!). 

Lunch with my Co-worker by Sheen Watkins

I bet that you do remember attending your kid's events where you celebrated or wiped away tears afterwards.  

You probably also remember the days where you intentionally took the time to do the physical activities that you love.  You may also readily recall where you spent time engaged in something that spurred your creative mind and spirit.

How did you feel after investing time in you, your family or your personal creative endeavors outside of work?

Before photography, other than having a deep appreciation for birds, color and nature, I never considered myself an artist.  I can't draw, paint, carve, sing (publicly) or effectively do other creative activities that rely on eye-hand/creative coordination. 

Who knew that when I put a camera in my hands for the first time that a creative fire would be ignited?  I surely didn't. 

Coffee Break by Sheen Watkins

Something else also happened as a result of finding my inner artist.  

Contentment.  
Higher energy. 
Confidence.  

A creative and more human perspective surfaced in other areas of my life - work, people, business, relationships.   

My writing returned. My work and personal life converged differently.  I felt more human, more creative, while being disciplined to grow personally and professionally.  I had more to give.

Some say this is balance.  Since I'm not a psychologist, I can't confirm.  What I do know is that when I found my inner artist, my total life was better.  

Home ~ Work ~  Relationships ~  Energy ~ Karma ~ How I felt about me

With work, family, commitments and hectic schedules, time too easily slips away.  So if you love to cook, doodle, photograph, paint, dance or any other creative element - go for it and ramp it up.  

You (and those around you) won't regret getting to know the total you that evolves. 

Happy Shooting, Sheen

Happy Hour by Sheen Watkins

Life Changes are Just a Click Away - Always Aim for Your Best Shot!

Golden Moment by Sheen Watkins

When I first picked up the camera, I had no idea that some day it would become part of my DNA.

It wasn't long after the journey began that I anxiously looked forward to the golden day when I could pursue this either "almost" full time or in a much larger capacity.

A little over a month ago, that moment arrived. 

We sold our house in four days with the initial intent of working remotely a lot more.

A couple of days later, I exited the glass doors the last time of where I spent 20+ wonderful years working with many, many amazing folks.

By the time I walked from those glass doors to my car, I was bursting with an optimism that I couldn't put into words.


In retrospect, what I felt on that walk was gratitude.  Thankful for the experiences, the life and people lessons, the friendships and knowing that I had given my best.  I was also grateful that I knew exactly what I wanted to do going forward -  photography!

Eye on the Future by  Sheen Watkins

My first words came when I got in my car and called my hubby.  What came out was simply, "Dave, we're moving to our 'up north', now!"  His response?  "Let's go!"

Within a 30 day window we closed on our house, sold a lot of unneeded 'stuff', packed and moved up north to the place we refer to as a little slice of heaven.

Now my that my photography future is here where will I take it?

In my prior corporate life, I loved coaching, teaching, learning, working and growing professionally.  It was a rush to be all-in  the moment,  to watch others succeed.  With photography, the same principles apply.  Yet with photography - it's about growing in our artistry, shooting what gives us joy and sharing our personal eye with others. 

Facing the Sunrise by Sheen Watkins

I've had Etsy and gallery websites along with using social media sharing (recently Instagram and Facebook) and blogging for a while.  I've written many photography articles for Light Stalking and Loaded Landscapes. Every now and then,  I'd lead small and large workshops locally.

It's so rewarding so see others learn and  experience their creativity.  I also jumped in on workshops led by others and will continue to do so.  I never want to stop learning and growing in this amazing craft called photography.

Now it's time.  Time to get after it.  More time with Dave, our doggies, family and friends.  More hours behind the lens, more hours learning, spending time with other photographers.   And soon....more opportunities to expand the workshop portfolio to experience photography adventures with and for others.

Happy shooting!

Gear Bag List - 2 Years Later

Photo by David Watkins,

A couple of years ago this month I provided a list of my camera gear in response to many emails and inquiries.  Today, it is still one of the top questions I still receive.

As my photography continues to evolve and expand, so does the gear in the bag.

Camera gear is an important decision and not one we take lightly.

Before I dive into my revised list (products with links take you to Amazon) - a few considerations:

1. I am still a believer that the best camera and lens for the task is the one in your hand.  You are the one that creates and composes the images. 
2. Time in the field will make you a better photographer - not the equipment. Sure, there is equipment that is better equipped for various situations.  You probably won't get the desired  'fill the frame" image of a bird when it is 25 feet away with a 50mm.  
3. Buy the best you can afford.  As a continuation to #2 - the glass won't make you a better photographer.  I've bought and sold lenses (they hold their value well) when I could afford to upgrade my equipment to faster and sharper lenses.  

Savannah Sparrow by Sheen Watkins

Camera & Lens Brands
I continue to use Nikon cameras and lenses.   Their glass is terrific and I find the cameras to be solid. I would add that Canon, Sony and other brands are high quality and get the job done.  I have also added third party lenses as well as sold lenses that I no longer use.

The camera brand is important, but it's the lens selection based on your photography goals that should heavily influence your decision. 

Camera Bodies
For birds and wildlife, Nikon's 500D is my camera body of choice as of today.  The cropped sensor format, image quality and speed  is ideal for photographing birds and wildlife.   For landscapes, macro, portraits and street photography, I still use my well-worn, time in the field tested Nikon's 810. The bigger sensor renders beautiful details, colors and tones.

For information on cropped versus full framed sensors, check out my Light Stalking article: Cropped vs. Full Frame Sensor

Winter Beach by by Sheen Watkins

Nikon Lenses - zooms - general purpose and great for travel:
14-24mm 2.8 extra wide angle
24-70mm 2.8 mid range zoom
70-200mm 2.8 telephoto
When do I use zoom lenses? Travel photography, when I'm photographing multiple subject types, when I don't know what I'm going to shoot and want flexibility along with landscapes and wildlife.

Nikon Macro (Nikon refers to them as Micro) - macro lens for flowers, bees, close-up, 1:1.
105mm 2.8

Nikon Telephoto- 500mm FL ED f/4 - telephoto for birds, wildlife
Protective cover for lens (as seen in the photo above) by Lenscoat.
Teleconverters:  Nikon 1.4 III

Nikon Lenses - primes - lightweight, fast and sharp
28mm 1.8
50mm 1.8
85mm 1.8

When do I use primes?  Walk around photography, out on the town with friends, photographing my pets, nature walks where I have limited time, when I want to act like I have a point & shoot.

My favorite little prime?   There's a reason it's a nifty fifty.  A great price performer and just about every time I take this little guy out I have a creative blast.

I don't pull my primes out as much as I should.  The primary reason is that I travel to a lot of my shoots and need to minimize packing and maximize versatility.  When I'm local, I love to bring out my primes.  Light, fast and fun. 

Peach Delight with the Lensbaby Velvet 56mm by Sheen Watkins

Art Lens: Lensbaby Velvet 56mm - a departure from my sharp, all about the details photography.  Lensbaby's tagline is see in a new way.  For those wanting smooth, creamy blur and that unique edge, this company has a series of art lenses to choose from.

Filters:
Schneider Optics B+W:  Circular Polarizer, Neutral Density Filters
Lee Filter System: 150 Extra Wide Filter System for the Nikon 14-24mm and the filter adapter ring for the 24-70.  Circular Polarizer, Medium Grad Filter and a 6 stop neutral density

Tripod: Manfrotto mt190cxpro4 Carbon Fiber Tripod
Tripod Head:  Really Right Stuff BH-40-LR (available through Really Right Stuff) and and their PG-02-Pano-Gimbal-Head.
Remote Shutter Release: Promaster

Camera bags:

Tamrac Anvil.  This is a big beast that holds a lot of gear and laptop.  When fully loaded, you'll get a workout as the weight adds up.  I use this bag when traveling on large planes or on a road trip. This is  partnered with one of the following for travel as this bag is too large for me to hike with.
Lowepro   They do a great job with lean.  I typically pack my 810, 14-24mm, 24-70, 70-200 and the needed filters in this streamlined bag.
Tenba's Vector Daypack.  This weighs two pounds, holds a 15" laptop and it's completely customizable inside.  Great for day trips and hiking.  I have two so that when I travel on small planes one goes under the seat and the Lowepro goes in the overhead.
Think Tank - for hikes, travel, a muti-short lens bag or camera with a 70-200 attached.  This holster is a pretty cool hipster.

Camera gear is an investment in you.  Take the time to read articles, customer reviews on the retailer's site (the good and the bad) and look at images produced by other photographers using gear you're considering.

Happy Shooting!

Date Night & The Morning After

Sweet Dear by Sheen's Nature Photography

No, this is not the name of a movie for mature audiences.  Friday nights represent so many things.  From the end of the work week to the beginning of the weekend, time to chill, time to party, a date with a spouse or significant other, time with your best friend and the list goes on.

As a photographer, my idea of a great Friday date night includes my hubby Dave, a long nature walk with no specific agenda and my camera.

Some of my favorite images have been as a result of the surprise photography moments that surfaced while we were chatting along the way.

The sweet deer to the right popped up in the woods as we were walking along the trail.  The fading sun provided soft illumination  through the branches while gently lighting his face.

A walk by the lake is part of the routine but the view is never the same.  One day the sky is clear blue (boring!), another day it's overcast with flat light.

This past weekend, the light breeze and white fluffy clouds celebrated summer color across our neighborhood lake, Quarton Lake.

Date Night Routine by Sheen's Nature Photography

The morning after with the same mindset offers its own creative inspiration.

Drinking coffee on the deck in the warm season while looking over the garden, there's almost always something new to capture.

The bright white flowers below glowed against a background of rich foliage prior to the sunlight reaching the garden.

I think part of the enjoyment is that I'm not looking for anything intentional.  I may not even snap the shutter once.  The times that I do, it's one or two snaps and I have a photo that came from the heart.

Morning After by Sheen's Nature Photography

Sound a bit crazy?

Part of the enjoyment and inspiration is the spontaneity as a result of using this as down time with my best friend (that would be my husband but he may feel he comes second to the camera at times).

This next weekend, grab your partner, your camera, a comfortable pair of shoes and see where the journey takes you.

Happy Shooting!

Traveling to Costa Rica: Lush Lands & Magnificent Wildlife

Capuchin Cutie by Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 7100, Tamron 150-600mm

Costa Rica.  Just saying those two little words a country filled with tremendous beauty immediately comes to mind.

During December 2014, I traveled there for a week that passed too quickly.

From people with quick smiles and delightful hellos, to foods that enticed the pallet (would love to have some yucca chips right now!) to nature's diversity, I will return to the Osa Peninsula for another sojourn.

Until then, I'll share images throughout the next few months that share the country's love of nature and color.

The first sounds I heard when arriving at the eco lodge of Bosque Del Cabo Rainforest Lodge were dogs barking.  Or so I thought.  Instead it was Howler monkeys rapidly on the move in rainforest.

My next monkey sighting was the Capuchins.  So expressive and so cute because of their ever changing faces.

One moment the monkeys are there, the next moment they disappear deep into the forest.

The Toucan's with their vibrant lime greens, lemon yellows and scarlet reds against a cape of black feathers and chestnut colored mandible, were the first birds to make their appearance.

Toucan Man by Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 7100, Tamron 150-600mm

While these funny faces were visible all week long, I never tired of photographing them.  Whether eating, basking in the sun or watching their photographer of the moment, seeing them in the wild was a wonderful gift.

Stay tuned for more images and writings illustrating Costa Rica's diversity and beauty.

Happy Shooting!

Sheen

What do Neil Diamond & Northern Michigan Have in Common? Cherry, Cherry!

It's an early, sunny morning in Leelanau County, Michigan and the camera and tripod are in tow.  Temperatures are a cool sixty degrees.  The fields are filled with flowers and a light, fading fog continues to disappear along the drive to my destination.

The orchard awaits.

Brimming with Cherries by Sheen's Nature Photography

Brimming with beautiful, ripe fruit the orchard shimmers in the sun.  A multitude of sparrows, blue jays and robins all sing overhead.

Sweet Treat by Sheen's Nature Photography

Yet, the song that I keep hearing is a childhood favorite, "Cherry, Cherry" by Neil Diamond.

Cherry Baby!

Standing in the middle of a cherry orchard among the cheeriest of cherry red fruits definitely "Move's Me, Baby" and inspires an extra sense of happiness into my work.

So while I'll probably never meet Neil, his song added a little extra joy as I photographed and yes, tasted some of the juiciest cherries I've ever experienced.

And if he ever makes it to Leelanau County in August, I hope he gets to indulge in one of Michigan's purest treats.

Who knows, it may inspire another great song!

Happy Shooting (and singing)!

It's a Beautiful Day....

Mornings, for most of us start with a cup of coffee.  For some, the alarm clock or smartphone receives a snooze button tap a few times.   It's that reflective time when yesterday's concerns may not seem quite as bad.  The morning quickly enfolds into our work tasks and personal plans for the day.

For photographers with a sunrise photography plan, it starts with an early alarm along with grabbing a cup of joe and camera gear.

Why do we rush out the door?  To experience the best part of the day!  The silence. The solitude. The think time. And, the simple beauty of watching an every-changing sky draped in painterly hues.

"Morning In Blue" by ©Sheen's Nature Photography

The Morning in Blue image was captured using long exposure (125 sec)  just before sunrise using Nikon 600 using an 85mm 1.8 lens and a B+W neutral density filter.

Let peace, a warm breeze and gentle waters stir the soul.

Happy Shooting!

Date Night....Friday Evening with a 'Walk-Around" Lens

What we do early Friday evening after work many times sets the stage for the rest of the weekend.     

Sunset Stroll by ©Sheen's Nature Photography

My photography passion centers on birds, flowers and nature.  Typically, my gear includes two cameras, a long lens, macro lens and tripod.  

Not really conducive for a relaxing neighborhood stroll.

Recently, I added a Nikon 50mm 1.8 lens to my arsenal for my Nikon 600 (full frame).   Along with the lens was an internal commitment to be intentional about walking around to find different inspiration.  

Early Friday evenings are now date night walks with my camera and walk-around lens (husband included!). 

The outcome, while still in nature, has been new perspectives.  These came from using a 50mm eye versus my telephoto or macro mindset.

Take a stroll, enjoy the sites along the journey.  And, if a creative moment emerges, snap away!

Happy Shooting!

 

Photography "Therapy"

Yes, I've been one of those who needed 'retail therapy' from time to time. Those mindless moments where you escape deadlines and stress factors at work.  My need for 'retail' therapy whether in a mall or online has forever been replaced.

What has taken its place?  Photography Therapy!

"After the Meeting Walk"
Nikon 600, 105mm

This is probably not a new phrase, and I'm sure other photographers feel the same way.  Picture this, (no pun intended).  A prolonged week of meetings continues with direct reports assisting in presentations, proposals and personnel discussions. This is capped off with yet one more Friday afternoon conference call at 4:00 p.m.  Many of these discussions are held in a square, non-descript beige work cube, conference room or if we are lucky, an office with a view of other concrete buildings.

Sunrise, Before the Meetings Begin"
Nikon 600, 14-24mm

Don't get me wrong, I love my career.  However, I believe in working to live. Part of living is not thinking about work when you're not working.  That can be a bit difficult for many of us, particularly if we do not find and pursue our own interests and passions.

Weekend "Work"
Nikon 5100, Signa 150-500mm

Photography therapy launches me into the outdoors and mother nature's emotional whim.  Downtime is spent with azure waters absorbing sunset, sunrise landscapes and wildlife in the woods.  Or the essence of time is lost while capturing flowers and foliage with hues, shades and textures that make Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore Paints wince with envy.  

So how can you find your photography therapy?  

The answer is quite simple.  What do you like to do with your spare time?  

Do you enjoy cars, travel, your kids' sports, pets, fashion, cooking, gardening, baseball cards, fishing, or collecting?  If you answered yes to any of these and have considered 'photography' as something to do, you may have picked the place to get started.  

Borrow, rent or purchase a camera and start here.   Take many, many images looking up, down and straight on with your identified subject.  Download to your computer and see what you've created.  

Your therapy may have just begun.

And for those who still hunger for a bit of retail therapy.  No problem.  There are plenty of cameras (Nikon), bags (Tenba, Tamrac), lenses (Sigma Lenses, Nikon lenses), tools (Lightroom 5, Nik Software), and how-to books available to shop for online (Amazon) and in local stores (Woodward Camera in Birmingham, MI, and a local retailer near you).

HAPPY SHOOTING! 
Sheen

Seriously, I'd Rather Be Behind the Lens

A sun starburst edges from behind a tree as the magic hour approaches.  A fluffy hooded merganser glides through a gold illuminated  pond at sunset.  We pause when the bright, rapid beat of a red-bellied woodpecker's tapping echoes through the forest.  And sometimes…it is the sound of silence as you gaze into the gentle brown eyes of a deer in the woods.

Swimming in Gold
Nikon 7100, Sigma 150-500

It's moments like these that beckon nature photographers to rise well before dawn, embrace cold, snowy conditions, all for that desired shot.  Then it's the thrill of editing and bringing the images in the camera back to life as we sip our steaming green tea.

Red Hat
Nikon 7100, Sigma 150 - 500mm

The last place we want to be?  Reconciling invoices, expenses and legal paperwork! To help expedite getting your business back-office established, here's a few key steps.

Deer eyes….
Nikon 5100, 55-300mm lens

First, I recently established my Limited Liability Corporation: Sheen's Nature Photography LLC. Since I'm not an attorney, an accountant or effective book keeper, I needed to apply the KISS method - keep it super simple!

Legal Zoom uses the KISS approach and completes the tedious legwork for you.  It took about 45 minutes online and a well-deserved payment.

They took care of everything. When I made a slight mistake, they called for clarification. As a result, I had a credit applied to the total.  They gave me email and voicemail updates every step of the way.

All that I needed was delivered to my door, earlier than planned.  There was no way I could get time savings, accuracy and legitimacy by doing this on my own.

Next, a business checking account.  Note:  financial institutions require you to have an EIN and your articles which Legal Zoom provided.   Huntington Bank was my choice as their service has always been professional with insight to assist in quick decision making.

And last, we can't forget a small business credit card to keep our business expenses organized.  The American Express Small Business Credit Card is a great way to go. Since I am a frequent traveler with Delta, the ability to earn miles is an extra perk. Those miles will fly me to photography adventures.

It's February and a 2014 resolution has been accomplished, with eleven months to spare doing what I love with my free time.

HAPPY SHOOTING!

Why Re-Create the Wheel: Your Photography Website Made Easy

When you think of photographers, what do you see?

Typically, it's someone with their arms held close to their chest, camera pressed against half their face as they focus and snap, followed by more focusing and snapping.

They are in studios with lights, equipment, models and backdrops.  They are outdoors behind their tripod collecting images of sunsets, landscapes, colorful birds and wildlife.

It's not a vision of the 'not-so-glamorous' hours spent finding or creating websites to showcase their work. This side of the business may appear complicated and a bit prickly.  It doesn't have to be.

Prickly Porcupine by ©Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 5100, 55-300mm

There are many free or low cost options you can use to create your own website and sell your artwork. They take care of the image printing, framing, shipping and collecting payment.  They pay you a commission while providing you with access to a network of fellow artists and potential customers.

Barred Owl Beauty
Nikon 600, 70-300mm

Today I have a website that you can access 2 ways:
1) www.sheensnaturephotography.com
2) http://sheen-watkins.artistwebsites.com.

The engine is www.fineartamerica.com.  It took about 10 minutes to get started.  The investment over time has been adding images and customizing my page as I acquired this option for $30.00 per year.  In short, it was easy.

Another site that I recently joined is 500px.com/swnaturephoto.  Targeted to photographers, it's a rich inspirational community.  You can sell prints here too.  I haven't enabled this option as the pricing is different from my website and that could confuse my customers. Another site made simple.

There are other powerful blogging and website tools such as Wordpress.  I haven't had the time to do a deeper dive into the higher level customization that's required. Today, photography is not my full-time day-job.

There are many beautiful sites using this engine and third party templates such as Photocrati.

In addition to a website, there are social media, marketing and official paper-proecssing steps needed to validate the business reflecting your hard, creative work.

These too can be made simple and we'll cover those in my next blog.

Busy Bee at Work by ©Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 600, 105mm

Until then……HAPPY SHOOTING!

It's Time….

A few weeks ago, I wrote "Is it a Resolution or a Delightful Journey?"   The intent was to describe many of our experiences in making resolutions happen.   It's past mid January. It's time to assess if our 2014 Resolution has taken hold.

After that article, I received questions in my Facebook page Sheen's Nature Photography. They centered on my 'what my resolutions are for this year' and my favorite, 'did I have and complete my resolutions for 2013?'

Let's start with the latter question as my 2013 goal was broad with a few specifics.

The overarching desire was to grow as a photographer as I had started in the spring of 2012.  I also wanted to capture images of various wildlife.  One in particular, the Snowy Owl.

Tundra's Ghost, the Snowy Owl by Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 5100, 55-300mm

On a snowy, very cold wintry day, I along with some dear friends went out in the Northern Michigan elements to capture this ethereal, ghostly and magnificent owl.

We weren't lucky by chance, we made luck happen.  I live by the rule, "I'm a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it." (quote by Thomas Jefferson)  We had a plan, did our research, drove hours to our destination and worked the area.  A resolution accomplished.

The Ethereal, Ghost Owl by Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 600, 70-300mm

Growth came by reading ebooks (see list below), linking up with Facebook photography pages and reading blogs from photographers.

A local nature photography workshop offered new tips and contacts.  A vacation in Nags Head, North Carolina created an opportunity to work with a local, professional landscape photographer Dan Waters. 

Nags Head Pier at Sunrise
Nikon 600, 14 - 24mm

The outcome is the personal satisfaction of seeing my photography evolve.

What's on the horizon for 2014?

• Travels to new locations:  Smokey Mountains, Tennessee and working on Costa Rica
• Capturing images of 'life birds':  Snow Bunting and the Lapland Longspur, next weekend
• Adventures to specific locations for new subjects:  Austin, TX for bluebonnets in the spring
• Establishing relationships with local businesses?  February, more to follow
• Making the business official:  Yes in January! Thanks to Legal Zoom my official LLC paperwork is due to arrive this week.  

There are many articles, theories that indicate that it takes 21 days to make a habit. However, it doesn't matter what the articles say.  What matters is what we really want to do and if we choose to make it happen.

Happy Shooting!

Books:  (available through Amazon or the artists websites)
Improve Your Wildlife Photography, Jim Harmer
Better Birds: A Photographer's Guide, Steve Dimock
How to Photography Landscapes Like a Pro, Steve Rutherford
Mastering Exposure in Digital Photography, Stephen Hockman
8 Types of Natural Light, Anne McKinnell
Creative Photography Techniques, 20 Tips for Stronger Images, Dan Bailey
Earth and Light Digital Media books by Richard Bernabe available through his site

Photo Shoot? I Don't Have a Thing to Wear!

It's early, and the sun will be creeping over the horizon soon. The mid-fall chill creates a smokey cast on Quarton Lake, in Birmingham, Michigan.  Wet leaves of speckled yellow, burnt orange, red and umber will present a kaleidoscope for the nature photographer.

A perfect day for kneeling in soggy trails, walking in shallow streams, while balancing a tripod along with camera equipment.

What to wear and not feel like I look like a Jane Hathaway wanna-be?  No offense Ms. Jane, I loved your character on the Beverly Hillbillies but most of us are not that retro.


Looking to the Golden Sky
Nikon 600, 14-24mm, f/7.1, ISO 80, 1/320 sec

As I was passing through the airport recently, the duty free shop had a commercial of a lovely young lady wearing wedge high heels, flowing slacks, and beautifully dressed to the nines. Springing out of the cab with her camera in Paris, she makes a quick turn, followed by an immediate shutter snap.  A twirl, then snap. A delightful distraction into another world.

There was no camera bag, shoulder strap, or heaven forbid a case for at least another lens.
In real life, nature photography brings back your childhood of navigating the elements while not worrying about your play clothes.

Magical Moment of Blue and Gold on Quarton Lake,  Birmingham, Michigan
Nikon 600, 14-24mm, f/16, ISO 250, 1/50 sec

Outdoor clothing for women nature photographers can be be a bit colorless and just plain boring.  What options are out there particularly as we head in to the colder seasons?  Definitely not jeans that get wet and stay that way.

Let's start with our feet.  If they are cold, wet, our time in the field may be cut short. A hardy choice, Hunter Boots deliver dry feet whether in a shallow stream or at the water's edge on the beach.

Silver Sunset Stroll on the Beach
Nikon 7100, f/9, Sigma 150-500, ISO 250, 1/200 sec

Completely rubber, no seams and the ability to line them with a comfy fleece boot sock or a shearling insole this boot provides year round versatility. They come in a rainbow of colors from the basic neutrals to the vibrant brights.  Hose them down and toss them over jeans when you want to hit your local food haunt.

Since we are bending, hiking and kneeling in earthy and wet conditions, running pants can handle wear and tear, they wick moisture well and are comfortable.  Brooks' Thermal Pant provides a work-horse black bottom that's warm on chilly days and not bulky. I've Googled gardening pants online and some may have potential, particularly with the ability to insert a knee pad, waterproof knees and seat.  However, a lot of these had the Ms. Jane appearance at first glance.

For tops, jackets, sweaters the spectrum is broad across many local and online retailers.  Athleta specializes in attractive, well-constructed women's outdoor and athletic wear. While they market to specific sports such as yoga, running, hiking, their designs are functionally fashionable. They use fabrics and designs that lend well to outdoor photography.

Lastly, our head.  We lose a significant amount of body heat through our head for the simple fact that the rest of our body is covered, our head is not.  For years, I resisted the use of hats.  A personal favorite in terms of durability, looks and warmth is Smartwool.  They also have a clothing line and their running, hiking and knee-high socks are the best I've come across.

The weekend and chilly conditions are on the way, what will you be wearing?  HAPPY SHOOTING!

Behind Every Nature Photographer....

November Berries from Stoney Creek Metropark
Nikon 7000, 105mm, ISO 320, f/5.6, 1/320 sec

Whether a professional or passionate about the hobby, we have or have had a support system that allows us to grow and improve each time we're behind the lens.

This support system can include the influencer, the mentors, the camera experts, the photography buddies, and of course, your partner.

Surround yourself with people that feed your addiction!

The influencer - who do you know that is active in photography?  The friend that has a camera with them always - either a smart phone or actual camera.  You watch them taking pictures while standing beside them thinking, "I wish I had a camera".  If this is you, let the influencer do their job.  Either pull out that camera sitting in the box out or go buy one!

The mentors - in today's social media world, there are many fantastic photographers networking on Facebook pages, Google pages, Twitter and other platforms.  There are also social media pages that share other artists works.  A few of these Facebook sites include:  Megashot, Soulful Nature, Nature Photography Wildlife Photography, and Audubon Magazine.  On google pages, just find your communities of interest. The Birds 4 All community on Google+ as an example is dedicated to bird photography.

Mary artists on these pages are forthcoming with their settings, lenses used and general tips.  Just ask!

Early Fall Sunshine
Nikon 5100, 105mm, ISO 320, f/14, 1/6 sec

The camera experts - your camera's website is the most accurate place to go for the latest specs.  Our web hosts many technical reviewers, sources and materials.  Even with all the great information on the web, the best advice may come from your local camera dealer.  Talk to their experts, show them your work, ask for feedback - you'll get invaluable tips and ideas. In southeast Michigan, it's Woodward Camera.

Photography mentoring buddies - similar to the influencer and the mentor, you'll find a few go-to mentoring buddies that are great to go out in the field with and observe their perspective on subjects.  I have a few that I haven't met face to face but if I need help, they serve as a faithful 'how-to' lifelines.  These are photographers who share subject interests. They reciprocate feedback and conversation.  Check out their talented, varied nature photography work on Facebook:  Bruce Leonhardt Photography, Craig Sterken Photography, Nathaniel Smiley Photography, Rose Marie's Pictures.  There are photography couples that share the passion side-by-side - 2 Browns Photography and Birgit and Juergen Pictures.

Your partner - you've been in the cold, the wet, the hot, the dry.  All the while, your partner showed patience until the bitter end when you've become a bit snap-happy.  Our partners show intense interest in our work, witness our progress and serve as a tie-breaker when deciding which image to use.

Starting the Day with a Song
Nikon 5100, 70-300 mm, ISO 320, f/9, 1/1000 sec

You - you are the artist behind the camera.  That image was not a result of 'having a camera that takes good pictures'.  Your images are personal, they share with others your eye of your subject.  They are a result of your work, study, patience and perseverance.

HAPPY SHOOTING!

Your Camera is not Exercise Equipment

What does exercise equipment such as a treadmill have to do with a camera?  How many treadmills are either gathering dust or being used as a great place to hang clothes? 

Kestrel's Poised Pose
Nikon 7100,  Nikon 70 - 300mm, IS) 400, f/8, 1/640 sec

Many of us have had or have intentions of getting in to photography.  We think about it, talk about it and buy our first 'real' camera.  The cameras that have dials, buttons, lots of features and capabilities.  

We take it out of the box and start reading the manual.  

Impatient to get through the details, we grab the camera, go outside and start taking pictures.  One of a squirrel, a couple of the kids, the dog and maybe a flower or two.  

We go back inside to find that the picture on the screen looks so....tiny, blurred, washed out, etc.  Definitely not the vision of what we thought our work would look like. 

This is it!  This is where many cameras are gently tossed back to their box to be used another day.  Instead, it gathers dust and takes up precious closet space.  

Why?  Pick one or all of the following or add your own to the list: 

Summer's Color
Nikon 5100, Nikon 105mm, ISO 250, f/5, 1/200 sec  

Not enough reading.  

Not as easy as we thought it would be.  

Not enough time.

No one to ask questions.

No plan.

Here are some simple recommendations to getting started and progressing as a photographer:

1. Talk to another photographer or your local camera dealer to understand the time commitment, what it takes to learn what you want to do.  It could be a simple as an hour or two.  Or depending of your goals, could require extensive practice.
2. Have a general idea of what you'll enjoy taking pictures of behind the camera before you make your purchase.
3. Buy a good camera (I use Nikon) from your local camera dealer and take it out of the box. 
4. Commit to a few hours of reading the manual, a how-to-use the camera book and an easy to follow photography book.  Refer to blog "Finding the Photographer Within Us" for examples of each.
5. Explore other's images on Google, Facebook (Facebook page example: Sheen's Nature Photography), Flickr, etc. to inspire your own style.
6. Get out there and take many pictures. Close up, far away, looking down, looking up, different settings.
7. Google 'how to' photography tips for your specific interest
8. Recognize that you will only really be thrilled with a small percentage of your images - that's normal.  
9. Don't take yourself too seriously. You will evolve with experience. If you're having fun, it will be reflected in your work.

HAPPY SHOOTING!

Egret in Reflection
Nikon 7100, Nikon 70 - 300mm, ISO 320, f/6.3, 1/1000 sec

Kiss the Day Goodbye

The light of day fades slowly as we begin to wind down for the evening.  The "Magic Hour or Golden Hour" approaches.  

In the deep south, folks sip mint juleps on the front porch.  The west coast signifies back-to-back cars driving home in thick traffic with sapphire blue views of the Pacific coast.  In west Texas' Big country, an evening horse ride under a rose-hued sky can gently close out the day.  In the Great Lakes Region, couples sit on the beach staring into periwinkle skies that melt into deep aqua water.

Softly Fading Sunset on the Leelanau Peninsula on Lake Michigan
Nikon 600, 24 - 85mm, ISO 50, 6/10 sec

The "Golden Hour" hues create magical moments for the photographer.  Harnessing the light and color correctly is part artistry and part skill.  A photographer who creates amazing magic with light is global photographer Richard Bernabe.  His recent image posting from Iceland "Picture yourself in a boat on a river....." on his Facebook page inspired me to buy his book Essential Light: Photography's Lifeblood.  

Rich in content along with camera settings used to capture specific images, the Essential Light eBook is  filled with facts that we know and facts that we 'forget' in the moment of the shoot.

Last Flight of the Day....one of my 1st sunset images.  ©Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 5100, 55 - 300mm, ISO 200, f/9, 1/800sec

Landscape, sunrise and sunset images can be readily captured with the Nikon or Canon lens that's bundled with the camera. For wider angle shots, wide angle lenses reign in big images that can surround the viewer.   Both Nikon landscape lenses (as well as Canon wide-angle lenses, other manufacturer's) offer multiple, diverse wide-angle options.  My personal next-to-buy item is either the AF-S Zoom-Nikkor 17-35mm f/2.8D IF-ED or the AF-S-NIKKOR-14-24mm2.8G-ED.

Whether you are new or seasoned in photography, a sense of humor in exploring different settings, angles and lenses fosters an open mind to the possibilities you can take from real life to image.

The Sun's Evening Kiss by ©2013 Sheen's Nature Photography
Nikon 600, 24 - 85mm, f/29, 1/10 sec

There are so many sunset horizons to view, many evening moments in nature to share with others.  So little time.

Photographers not only chase the light.  Photographers practice creating images with the light and the focal points they been given with every press of the shutter.  Happy Shooting!