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Experience isn’t subjective. AI exists within a mathematical algorithm; it doesn’t stand on a windswept landscape, drinking it in. It doesn’t navigate the shifting moods of nature or adapt to what it offers. Fine art nature photography is more than just an image—it’s a testament to presence, endurance, and the ability to understand something real. It requires being immersed in the moment, responding to the ever-changing elements, and capturing a scene as it existed in time. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about authenticity—the direct, irreplaceable connection between the artist and the natural world. AI-generated art may look the part to some, but it’s a facsimile. Does that difference matter? Work created through presence, unparalleled dedication, and human experience holds nonfictional value.

Photography without AI generation holds a unique and irreplaceable superiority in the realm of creativity and intrinsic value. Traditional photography requires the photographer to engage deeply with their subject, harnessing technical expertise, an artistic eye, and an intuitive understanding of light, composition, and timing. This hands-on approach fosters a deep connection between the photographer and their environment, infusing the final image with authenticity and emotional resonance. Unlike AI-generated imagery, which relies on pre-trained algorithms and lacks the spontaneity of human decision-making, non-AI photography captures unrepeatable moments. It translates them into timeless works of art. It celebrates the raw, complete beauty of the real world and the boundless ingenuity of human imagination, offering a depth of expression that cannot be replicated by automated processes.

To those creating with your heart, your hands, and your soul: take heart. Authenticity will always matter. It’s your truth, your integrity, and your deep connection to your work that will stand the test of time. While trends may fade and fads will come and go, what you offer is timeless. The real moments, the lived experiences, and the raw emotions that your work embodies will resonate deeply, long after the fleeting buzz of the artificial fades.
Stay true to yourself, your craft, and the stories only you can tell. In a world that often rewards the loud and the fake, your quiet authenticity will shine brighter than anything generated by a machine. Keep creating with meaning, purpose, and integrity. You’re building something far more valuable—something no algorithm can measure: a life of true artistic fulfillment.

In the corporate world, considerable resources are dedicated to constructing spaces where people conduct business and strive toward community objectives. We hold high expectations for creativity, productivity, and optimal performance within these environments. However, there is a troubling trend in which the importance of maintaining a healthy, stimulating, and inspirational interior space often goes overlooked, which can inadvertently diminish the spaces' original purpose.

The simple truth, often underestimated, is that both art and architecture wield measurable influence. Any industry reliant on the productivity of individuals can significantly benefit from this fundamental principle. Investments in thoughtfully chosen artwork not only yield a more productive and competitive workforce but also foster a healthier and more spirited community. There may even be fewer sick days, as people coexist more harmoniously when surrounded by expressive and inspiring works of art.

It is disheartening to witness substantial businesses invest millions in constructing structures to house their workforce, only to adorn the walls with cheap or faded poster images in the name of cost savings. This practice is prevalent even in environments like hospitals, where art could be of immeasurable benefit. The truth is that such a cost-cutting approach makes little sense, even from a financial standpoint.

Organizations, regardless of their size, regional culture, or business model, can reap the rewards of well-chosen art. Art is not merely a decorative element; it is an essential component of our lives, one we cannot do without. It has the power to transform spaces into havens of creativity, productivity, and unity, nurturing the best in people and fostering an environment where the human spirit soars.

Transform your surroundings from dull and uninviting to vibrant and inspiring. This is the power of landscape and nature art!

As an experienced landscape and nature art seller, I can attest to the transformative effects of well-chosen artwork. Not only does art add elegance and class to any space, but it also has the power to uplift and inspire us in countless ways.

That's why I'm passionate about the landscape and nature art I sell - not only is each piece visually stunning, but it also carries a message that can inspire you to live your best life. Whether you're looking for something to decorate your home, office, or other environment.

But investing in art isn't just about aesthetics - it's also about improving our emotional and mental well-being. By surrounding ourselves with landscape and nature art that speaks to us, we can create an atmosphere that reflects peace and well-being. Plus, the simple act of appreciating art can bring joy and relaxation to even the most stressful of days.

What initially started out as a simple passion for capturing the stunning moments in nature quickly grew into something much larger; something that had the potential for a positive impact on people’s lives. It's been a tremendous experience to learn that my work has become an inspiration for so many, serving to remind viewers of the absolute beauty that lies within our natural world.

At fundraising events, the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) Featured my work in slide shows highlighting the South Fork of the Snake River and the largest riparian cottonwood forest in the west. One of the most unique and diverse ecosystems in Idaho. These efforts resulted in over 33 million in donations.

This is a good example of the power of photographic art. History shows that artists were instrumental in developing an awareness that led to the preservation of national treasures like Yosemite, Teton, Glacier, and Yellowstone National Parks. Millions of acres in the USA, and globally, have been preserved following awareness campaigns that included fine art photography.

It goes to show how powerful a role fine art nature photography can have. Through showcasing the beauty of nature, a photographer can bring joy to others, raise awareness of conservation, and inspire a greater appreciation of the environment.

Fine art nature photography can also help people in their creative projects, or provide education on the wonders of the world around us.

Knowing what to photograph by Leland Howard

Knowing what to photograph is like the process involved in other mediums. How does a painter know what to paint or how does the musician know what to play? Mostly it’s what moves you. Photographically if you care about the subject, it will show in the work.

Of course conditions, weather, and assignment contracts play a big role. If I’m not under a contract obligation, then experience that allows for hopefully maximizing opportunities comes into play. However, explaining the requirements for knowing where and what to photograph might perpetuate the common myth that once in a location, the tool (camera) does the work.

Take for example your cold winter day with a sky full of stars and sparkling snow. What can the artist create that will do this justice? Remember how you felt looking at that scene. Did you wonder if it was possible to create something, a piece of art, which would make a viewer feel something similar?

An artist may never do nature justice, but we can find some gratification in the challenge. Occasionally an image will be created that at least can be described as worthy.

I’m never completely satisfied with an image. If I were, this could show a point of stagnation and one thing an artist must do is continue to grow. I can say I accomplish what is necessary, especially when under contract, but otherwise the goal is never so concrete that would allow me to say that I accomplish what I set out to do. There are too many variables. Sometimes I’m able to create something better than what I was visualizing for an area simply because of conditions like the quality of the light or the balance of a scene. Other times (far too many) the opposite is true.

Here is something to think about. Instead of calling it taking pictures, try calling it creating an image or painting with light. You’re not taking anything and all you are recording is light - all we see is light. Objects, color, and contrast become apparent because of how light reacts with the elements in an environment.

I don’t always know where to go but educated guesses are very helpful. Since I specialize in the wilderness, seasons play a role. Then simple things can also help like topo maps. By studying the terrain on a map, I can often tell what areas would have the most potential in different light conditions. Also, I will often travel to the same area many times over to learn it and get a feel for when conditions might be right.

Having said this I can tell you it is also fun to just hit the road and see what I find. Many times I don’t where I will end up. This is a good feeling, I guess it’s freedom. I can burn sometimes and have to stop because of exhaustion in a place that’s nothing to write home about but I live for the times I come upon a spectacular place. I’ve seen some amazing things in my life and very often they’re not in the most famous places.

Raw files are lifeless data. So they require some sort of processing to get an image similar to how the human eye perceives color, and shadow and highlights detail, clarity, etc. I prefer the word “processing” because it is like processing a negative and printing in an old-style darkroom. I do this processing via software. There are many software versions with a huge overlap in function. I use Hasselblad medium format sensors, so for the screen work, I begin with Phocus since they specifically designed it for these files. The rest of the workflow (screen and field) is image dependent, complex, and as intricate as learning to play a musical instrument, both in a technical and artistic sense. Naming the other software used for screen work in the workflow is kind of meaningless. Here is what is important; Field and screen work are not separate, very much like Ansel Adams’s zone system. It is an artistic workflow from field to screen to the ultimate piece that functions as one. This comparison is important for many reasons, including—regardless of the quality of camera systems today, the sensors are very limited compared to the human eye, and I frequently push the limits.

In landscape art, hopefully, an image has something to say about an environment or maybe it reflects an emotional reaction to a scene. Regardless, the sensor (or film) is the canvas and light is the brush.

The term for what I specialize in is referred to as fine art nature photography. When I’m asked how I got started doing this, I can’t pronounce momentous events, sudden inspirations, or a mentor experience. I’m not even sure when I first picked up a camera. For me, this experience has been more like a lifetime of learning with dedication and practice. Similar to the commitment required for becoming an accomplished musician, painter, sculptor, or professional in other chosen mediums.