Crop Corner

For many outdoor and nature photographers, the enjoyment of being OUT THERE seeing the beauty of our planet is all it takes to make a great day. When that enjoyment is combined with memorable sights, the experience is enhanced. Capturing images of an outing makes for the ultimate happening. Photographers are frequently asked about their favorite subject or most memorable event. While I can't pick a favorite subject from the many I enjoy, my most memorable event had to be seeing and shooting an eared grebe hatching out of its shell--at least that was my first choice until a recent trip. Having seen a book on northern lights photography in Alaska, I wanted to see this wonder first-hand.

You're on a photography trip, and you wake up early in the morning to see what the weather is like. It's socked-in with clouds and fog. You have several options: roll over and go back to sleep, fix a leisurely breakfast, go scouting, or grab your gear and high-tail it out to get some shots while the condition still exists. Bad weather is a situation many photographers find frustrating, but anyone who has shot film during "bad" conditions can tell you the best option is the last one. After all, storms can play a key part in some of the most dramatic shots you've ever taken, whether they're landscapes or wildlife.