Over the years people have asked me how I got into photography.  I always had an interest, but finally got more into it while photographing my youngest sons baseball team.  Now, to take it a step back... there were a couple of guys that played a big part in getting my interest level up and I will mention them here.  The first was Lee Brown.  I played baseball with his twin boys and Lee would photograph some of our games and give the pictures to us... for no charge.  I always appreciated that.  The second, and biggest, is Gary Langley.  Gary is a wildlife photographer that I've know most of my life.  He might also have some incredible photographs of different animals scattered across North America.  On top of this, he's a world-class knife maker... look him up.  These guys are the people who influenced me and peaked my interest in photography, and I cant thank them enough.

Now we will discuss some methods of learning photography.  I first studied and researched how to use a DSLR, what everything meant, and how each setting affects the others.  This research included, YouTube, magazines, and most importantly, other photographers.  I would call Gary from time to time to ask questions and learn what I could.  I would go out and shoot, and adjust, and shoot, and adjust, and keep playing with settings until I figured them out.  Then, I met another photographer, David Strozdas, who has amazing work from around the globe.  David, a former state game warden in Oklahoma,  is also the administrator for the North America Wildlife Photographers Association meet-up group in OKC.  I have spent a lot of time with David learning what I could from him.  David and I regularly jump in the truck and head off in search of wildlife to photograph.  He is also the best wildlife person I've ever met.  If you have a question about an animal, he has an answer.  The most important part of learning is asking questions and hands-on practice.

Lastly, the motivation that keeps me going is other photographers.  I have met some outstanding photographers over the years that produce great work.  I strive to be as good as them, and sometimes try to capture an image that make them question whether or not I passed them in skill level; I haven't, but I like to keep them guessing. Some of these photographers are Gary, David, Jeff Goudy, Bryce Yamashita, Scott Wilson, Eivor Kuchta, Dan Walters, Jackie Crivello, Cheryl Callen, Rob Daugherty, and one of the coolest, best guys I know, Alan Shadduck.  If you enjoy wildlife and landscape photography, look them up and give them a follow, you wont be disappointed.  

If you are new to photography, or a seasoned veteran that is looking for a little motivation, find your Gary, or your David.  You can also join the NANPA meet-up group in OKC and learn new things and meet other photographers.  If you are interested, message me and I will send over some details.

Until then, get out and enjoy the outdoors.

Happy shooting,

Joe