Cover Photo Credit: Daniel Forster Photography
When I first got into photography, I wanted to find others with similar interests to meet up with. It took a while to find the right people, but when I did, the camaraderie and collaboration exceeded my expectations. Eventually, I wanted to create these same opportunities for others. Thankfully, I found friends who shared this interest and wanted to partner in building a community.
The Picture Perfect Colorado group was created with community-building at its core. To help foster this idea, we met up last weekend for our second Picture Perfect Colorado ‘Walkabout’ at the Paint Mines.
Our group enjoyed a nice hike into the Paint Mines before sunset. Some of us scattered to find compositions for the sunset, while others continued exploring the area. By the time the sun set and we hiked back to the parking area, our group had dwindled somewhat, but there was just enough light left for a group photo. Thanks to everyone who joined us and made it such a great time! I’m looking forward to more meetups across the state.
Although we held the Walkabout in winter, there wasn’t much snow at the Paint Mines last weekend. That was supposed to change today with a forecasted winter storm, but it didn’t bring much winter weather after all. I was looking forward to more snowfall, so this week I wanted to share some winter photos our members have posted in the group.
Group Member – Leo Joak Tarrazo
The first winter photo was captured by Leo, otherwise known as “Colorado Wanderer” on social media. I’ve been to this spot overlooking the Dillon Reservoir, and even captured a sunset there, but nothing like this stunner.
Leo shared a video of this evening and when I saw it, I had to watch it more than a few times. The next winter scene is from a beautiful morning in Garden of the Gods Park in Colorado Springs.
On winter mornings like this, the park can be difficult to navigate at times. Many mornings after an overnight snowfall the gates are closed. And even if they aren’t closed, conditions like this can be tricky, but oh so beautiful. To see more of Leo’s work and keep up with his travels, check out his website and social media accounts.
Website: https://www.coloradowanderer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coloradowandererphoto/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colorado.wanderer/
Group Member – David Thoutt
For our next highlighted member, we have this winter photo captured by David Thoutt. This photo pulls together multiple elements that draw my attention. But I think mainly I love seeing the resilience of the bison on a cold winter day like this.
From David’s “Frosted Bison Majesty” on Colorado’s eastern plains, to another beautiful subject out on the eastern plains. This old church makes a great subject out on the open plain. And this starry night view really sets up the cold winter scene.
In David’s post with this photo, he asked “What do you feel when you look at winter scenes like this?”. I feel inspired, and yes, very cold. Which I’m sure that’s how it felt that night he captured this scene. To see more of David’s work, check out his website and social media accounts.
Website: https://www.davidthouttphotography.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100067568032191
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/david_thoutt_photography
Wrap Up
Before we wrap up – I want to congratulate Hollie Flesher Hardman for winning the cover contest. Here is her beautiful photo that now graces the cover of the group.
Keep an eye out for the next contest. And for the announcement of our next Walkabout event.
For anyone looking for photography mentoring, I want to mention that all three of your admins are available for training sessions.
Jason Fazio: https://www.jasonfaziophotography.com/training
Jae Jarratt: https://www.distantlandsphototours.com/workshops
Daniel Forster: https://www.danielforsterphotography.com/mentoring
Remember, your admin team is always here to help – don’t hesitate to reach out to Jae, Jason, or myself with any questions.
That’s it for now – keep shooting, and keep it real everyone.
