Sunday, November 05, 2006

Nature photographer communities

Burrowing OwlOne of the best ways to improve as a photographer is to have your images critiqued by an expert. I can highly recommend two online communities that specialize in nature photography, and offer forums where anyone can post photos and receive critiques from a wide array of photographers, including professionals and highly-advanced amateurs.

  • Photomigrations - The Photomigrations community caters to both nature photography beginners and experts. One great thing about the Photomigrations site is that it offers free hosting for images that you would like critiqued--there is no need to host your images on a separate site. Although criticism can sometimes sting (just a bit!), members of the community are always positive and constructive.
  • Naturescapes - The Naturescapes community is most helpful, in my opinion, for the intermediate and advanced nature photographer. Some of the top professional nature photographers in the world post on the Naturescapes site, and often comment on photographs submitted by others. Note that unless you become a paid member of the site, if you want to submit images for critiques they will need to be hosted elsewhere (e.g., on your own site, on Pbase, etc.). The Naturescapes forums also include an incredible amount of information on nature photography equipment, tactics and locations, as well as information regarding the business aspects of selling nature images. Naturescapes also has an excellent online store that carries a wide array of equipment designed for the nature photographer.
I am an active member of both communities, and post images on a regular basis--please feel free to comment on my images if you get the opportunity. When you get a chance, check out these sites--they are among the best resources available for improving your photography!

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