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I’ve been a nature photographer for over 25 years. I have an intrinsic appreciation for wild and natural places and the creatures that inhabit them. I made that appreciation the focus of my undergrad education, having earned a degree in Ecology & Evolution but also having taken just about every course that the University of Pittsburgh offered relating to nature and the study of the natural world.

When we make images in nature, what are we doing?

Representing reality, or creating an artful interpretation?

And when we process an image, adding contrast, vibrance and sharpening, are we ‘improving on nature’?

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?