In this my first blog, I thought I'd take a moment to talk about why I do this photography "thang".  I do nature photography, not wedding, not sports, not portrait.  I do  (or at least strive for) fine art landscape, wildlife, skyscape, waterscape, etc. photography because I like being outside, in the country, far from the crowds and noise of the work-a-day world.   When I'm there the peace and serenity that comes from being surrounded by the beauty and majesty of God's creation is something I'm not sure words can communicate.  You're either reading this and going "Oh yeah!" or if not, I'm not sure I'll be able to explain. 

I'm emotionally attached to each of my photos as they represent a unique moment on my life's journey. My approach to photography is the same as life in general. The journey is as important as the destination. Hence the name "ImageTrek". I enjoy the pursuit to capture a great photo as much as I do displaying the final product.

I'm sure any of you who hunt and spend days or weeks preparing for opening day will get this. I like reading up on the habits of the lions in the Ngorongoro crater in Tanzania that I'm trying to photograph, studying topographical trail maps to a waterfall on the Napali coast of Kauai, HI or researching the technical details for the proper exposure for a night shot of the stars and moon. I look forward to those 2 hour car rides, often starting out before dawn, through gorgeous western Montana to get to a location.

However, I especially LOVE the time from the moment I step out of the car out in the country somewhere. My lungs drink in the fresh air filled with the smells of the woods. Most of the time the only sounds that greet me are the wind in the trees, rushing water and perhaps noisy raven. Often arriving and setting up in the predawn twilight, I treasure the moment when the sun breaks over the mountains flooding the landscape with golden light illuminating an unspoiled slice of God's creation. At those moments if you still your heart and quiet your mind I swear to you that you can hear the voice of God. It takes my breath away as I trip the shutter capturing those moments, preserving forever a memory of my life journey. Other than spending time with my immediate family, there's nothing I'd rather be doing.

So, I invite you to come along on my "ImageTrek". I don't claim to have any creative artistic ability but I can stand in front of the glory of God's handy-work an point a camera at it. I hope you enjoy what I've captured so far. I appreciate any and all constructive feedback and look forward to good conversation along the journey.

Thanks, Curt