The photograph is of a 25-inch rainbow trout lying exhausted in the shallow waters of the Harper River in New Zealand. Looking at this 10-year-old picture reignites all my senses—the cold water, the morning breeze, the warm sun, the smell of the mountains, and the tug of the trout. Taking this trip down memory lane reminds me why I travel and why I take photographs when I do.
Words and Photos by Chris Corbin
An outdoor enthusiast whose quest for happiness has driven him to create digital brand experiences.
1. Shoot for Yourself
I enjoy the process of shooting a photograph. I take pictures to remember the journey, but mostly I shoot for myself. I’m the only person that sees 90 percent of the photos I take and it’s these images that bring me some of my greatest joys.
2. Keep Learning
I’ve never taken a single photography or videography class, but I’ve spent countless hours watching tutorials and studying styles that fascinate me. There are a wealth of resources online that can help you hone your skills. My favorite is lynda.com. They offer both free resources and subscription services.
3. It’s Not About the Gear
My most expensive camera costs $600 and it’s called an iPhone. I also have a point-and-shoot camera, but it only cost $500. For me, it’s about seeing the shot—not the lens attached to the camera.
4. Simplify
Limiting your camera options actually increases creativity. For example, I shot every frame of the video below using a GoPro Hero 3. Seven thousand photos later and I have an experience that will last a lifetime. I love to shoot photos and video when I travel but I don’t like to carry camera bags. When the gear impacts your shooting decisions, I think you’ve missed the most important piece.
5. Use Your Legs
Because of my commitment to keeping things simple, I end up using my legs to get the shot I want. This has led to some wild detours, but I wouldn’t want it any other way.
As I flip to the next image, I’m quickly reminded of the fun I had. Photos allow me to cement these memories, and for that I’m thankful.
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