WHAT'S NEW?
Here are updates about upcoming events, stories, essays and projects. You'll also find information on what's new in the JOURNAL, in the GALLERIES, in my GEAR bag and other noteworthy things.
And if you want to know what happens in the meantime, you can find my occasional posts on social media sites when I find other good stuff to share.
Quiet now, his words live on.
Wendell Berry died recently. He was a writer, a conservationist, a teacher and a farmer. He would say farmer first. But he is best remembered for his essays, poetry and novels about agriculture, conservation, rural life, nature and human nature.
About 50 years ago in my hometown, I was fortunate to hear his voice and see his eyes before I read his words. His ideas have challenged me, convinced me and confirmed what I already believed ever since then. Learn more about him and his work in the JOURNAL.
Read more in a new JOURNAL entry.
EPHEMERALLY YOURS Hepaticas say it's Springtime at last. But they won't last long.
It's in their nature to make a short, spectacular appearance after the vernal equinox. They come and go before the forest canopy wakes from its winter sleep. That strategy assures they gather enough sunlight and spring rain to survive the shady days of summer.
To find out more about wildflowers and how to photograph them.
Read more in the JOURNAL entry entitled Ephemerally Yours
HAPPY TRAILS When I was a kid, I had no expectations of what I'd be when I grew up. Anything was possible -- astronaut, fireman, fighter pilot, deep-sea diver, cowboy.
My young dreams certainly didn't include nature photographer. Yet here I am.
We all have stories to tell about the paths we've chosen. Or did they choose us? Here's a bit about mine.
Read more in the JOURNAL entry entitled Happy Trails
Music is on my mind lately. I rely on it to calm my concerns about current civil matters. And I don't mean "civil" as the dictionary defines it: "formal politeness and courtesy in behavior or speech."
Music helps me deal with the disappointment. It grounds me, gives me solace, grants me moments of peace, and it gathers my calmer, quieter thoughts. Maybe it's the same for you. Here are several Journal entries about music that may ring true with you, too.
THE MUSE IN MUSIC How music shapes my approach to photography at home and in the field. Read more here.
MY CLASSICAL STORY Recounting when I connected with Classical music. My experience created a steadfast bond between nature and music. Read more here.
NEW WEBSITE FEATURE: STORIES and ESSAYS
Now you can find full-length stories and essays in their own section. The topics include how-to guides, travel tips, natural history features, expanded information from past journal entries, and personal reflections.
By my own admission, I'm not a tech person. So forgive me if I overlook discussions about the latest equipment and software updates. I probably find that info like you do from favorite sources and people I admire and trust.
As important as tech issues are, I find my greatest pleasure in making pleasing photographs in the field, not at my computer desk. When I need them, the new gear and extraordinary software advances do make photography easier and better.
But I find myself coming back to basic principles and tried-and-true methods. Whatever I can do through the lens in the field makes me the happiest with my images and my time out in nature. The Stories and Essays will reflect those habits, too.
LET'S KEEP IN TOUCH
I put my final newsletter to bed several years ago. But our connection doesn't have to stop there. I've enjoyed sharing ideas and events with you all these years. I've enjoyed our adventures, too. So let's keep in touch in whichever way you like.
By way of social media, you'll find me on Instagram and Facebook. If you follow me or make a connection request, I'll follow you back. If you'd like to email me, I'd like that, too.
I look forward to seeing what you see and hearing what you think as you travel along your own path of discovery. And if our paths cross, I hope we'll share the view and maybe a cold brew.
Safe travels and happy trails until we meet again.
Let's keep in touch.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliffzenorphotography/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliff.zenor.5/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliffzenor/
Email: cliffzenor@gmail.com
Nature photographers are explorers.
Each time we bring the camera to our eye,
we hope to discover something as pleasing
in the viewfinder as is in our mind’s eye.
And in the effort,
we’ll likely learn something
about our subjects and ourselves.
Mary and me in a tallgrass prairie.