This is what I looked like almost 15 years ago when I started Photofocus!
In the USA today we celebrate a holiday called Thanksgiving. I used to spend this day every year photographing Bosque del Apache. It’s odd not to be there. But that spot is played out for me. I have 59000 snow geese photos. I think I have that subject covered.
I intend to do something I almost never do – which is take the day off. I am gearing up for my last big nature photo shoot in Alaska this coming March. I’ll make a final trek there to photograph the eagles in China Poot Bay.
Things are slowing down for me now – and that’s my choice. I’ve said no to 10 things for every opportunity I say yes to.
In this time of reflection I want to take a moment to thank everyone who reads this site, listens to my podcasts and follows me on social media. I also want to thank my sponsors, staff, business partners and photo assistants.
Wherever you are today, whether it’s an official holiday or not – you can find something for which to be thankful.
As I look back at four decades of photography I’m reminded of just how lucky I have been. I have seen amazing and wonderful things. I’ve been to mind-boggling locations and met some of the nicest, most loving people on the planet.
I’ve photographed politicians, rock stars, race car drivers, beauty queens, gorgeous landscapes, fantastic products, and of course plenty of wildlife. I’ve been lucky enough to lay down on the ground and find myself surrounded by new-born wolf puppies, licking me happily and trying to snuggle under my coat. I’ve stood toe-to-toe with grizzly bears, mountain lions, wolves, moose, elephants and more. I’ve grown to love the birds especially; the eagles, the geese, the ducks and the shorebirds. I’ve seen things most people can’t even imagine. I’ve been to places that even photographs can’t really describe.
And to top it all off, not only do I have the memories of all this – but most of the time, someone paid me to do it!
I am thankful for all the things I’ve been able to accomplish in my life and for a last chance to matter – to you who read this site and who depend on me for help.
Thank you for giving me purpose. I wish you and yours a happy Thanksgiving.
