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A few years ago while on a road trip across the American West I decided to stop and photograph the iconic Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park. (Original, I know…) Admittedly, I was a little hesitant in doing this – I’d heard horror stories of altercations breaking out between jostling photographers, and knew that the location turns out dozens of near identical sunrise images every single day. You have to admit though, that scene is pretty spectacular; and a respected workshop leader had urged that I at least shoot it once for myself. So I decided to give it a go.

As we travel for holiday and vacation, we have an opportunity to show that we put nature first in our travels and photography. By planning ahead and thinking about reducing our impact, we can be an example to others as nature photographers.

Our dreams to travel across Europe, especially after several lock downs, grow bigger and bigger and we can hardly wait to be able to explore our most desired destinations again. In Europe, even around the world, we see a big growth in the Nature Economy. Outdoor tourism, like hiking, canoeing, photo tours, nature workshops etc. is currently very popular. What is the impact of all this on nature and can nature also benefit from this big commercial growth?

Anticipation of “returning to normal” continues to weave its way into our thoughts and planning these days. We don’t know what the new “normal” will look like, but it’s easy to imagine that nature will continue to play a larger role in people’s lives as a result of the pandemic. Some of us have always had a deep connection with nature. But nature became a new and essential escape for many over the past year. Nature remained open, while so many other things closed down.

In April, we celebrate the natural world , Earth Day and the second anniversary of Nature First. Join us to learn about why staff, advocates and members love nature, and celebrate with us this month.

Occasionally we get questions from people wondering whether there is any real reason for them to sign up. So today, we’re going to try and answer some of these questions and address the reasons that keep people from joining. I hope you find this helpful.

We recently got a chance to chat with Crystal Brindle (our Nature First Community Advocate in New Zealand) about her experience and perspective when it comes to overall preparedness and educational opportunities/resources, and impacts from photographers and other visitors to the great outdoors.

Like any meaningful organization, whether it be Doctors Without Borders, The World Wildlife Federation or Leave No Trace, there comes a time when additional staffing and financing are necessary to reach the goals for which the organization was established.

You may be wondering why Nature First is mentioning this conference. We don’t typically advertise conferences, but we’ve chosen to sponsor this one to help get the word out about Nature First to a global audience.

How planning ahead can help protect our natural treasures and public lands.