It’s not always about “the shot”.

Well, sometimes photography is more about the process than the end result.  At least, that’s my story from yesterday evening.  I went on a photo walk with friends from my local photography club here in Kodiak, AK.  We have over 100 folks in the Facebook Group for our photography club, but usually have the same five or six folks who show up for our monthly get togethers and walks.  We’ve had a few new people join us, and it’s always exciting to welcome new people.

Some harshly lit Oyster Catchers on Near Island, Kodiak, Alaska

I love the photo walks because they are an excuse to go out and shoot, but they’re also a time to see friends with a love for the same hobby I love.  We wander around for an hour or two and talk about photography.

An Old Truck we stumbled upon out in the woods.

Ultimately, that’s why I easily overcome my disappointment at capturing absolutely nothing of value.  92 photos over two and a half hours and the best I could produce last night was the uninspiring shots above.  I did have a great time hiking through the woods in Kodiak, walking the docks, and enjoying the bright, harsh light of late afternoon (6-8pm) in Kodiak.  Sunset wasn’t until around 10pm, so we all headed home before prime light.  We talked, laughed, discussed our upcoming photo exhibition at the local community college and snapped a few photos.  We all talked about the great gear some were shooting with (camera envy!) and the great shots club members had shared on Facebook over the last month.

In the end, I came home without a “keeper’, but I am motivated and inspired to shoot some more!

So what’s my tip?

Find a photography club, or group of like minded friends and set a date to get out and shoot together.  Whether you capture a great shot that day or not, you’ll come home with ideas, renewed motivation and a stronger friendship with folks who enjoy photography as much as you do.