Being a nature photographer is a deeply captivating journey. It’s about immersing myself in nature, merging with its rhythms, and absorbing the lessons of its extraordinary processes. There’s an indescribable thrill in becoming one with the ecosystem, witnessing the intricate dance of life unfold. And when it comes to crafting images, it’s a magical fusion of creativity and storytelling. I find immense joy in weaving visuals that not only narrate stories but also resonate profoundly with those who lay eyes upon them, forging an unbreakable connection between their hearts and the wonders of the natural world.
Every photograph I create carries a hidden narrative within. It’s the tale of exploration and the circumstances that led me there. It’s the story of the subject itself, a glimpse into its own journey. And intertwined with it all is the chronicle of challenges conquered, the hurdles surmounted to capture the exact image we sought. Every photo is a doorway to these layered stories, an invitation to delve into the emotions, dedication, and triumphs that lie beyond the visual frame.
Allow me to share a fragment of the captivating narrative behind capturing the elusive Golfo Dulce Poison Frog.
In my search for frogs, I embarked on a journey to explore their native surroundings. The endeavor proved to be quite demanding, as I traversed through streams, caves, and dense foliage in search of these elusive creatures. However, my persistence paid off, as I eventually stumbled upon a small frog nestled within a small cave situated on a forested slope. It was a truly remarkable discovery that made all the effort worthwhile.
Capturing the photo presented a complex challenge. I found myself contorted into an uncomfortable stance, delicately balancing on the slope. To align with the frog’s viewpoint, I rested my arms on the jungle floor, amidst the layers of fallen leaves.
As the shutter clicked, a sudden jolt ran through me as I realized a swarm of army ants was crawling up my arm. Their collective presence left a vivid crimson stain on my skin, a testament to their numbers and unity.
Fortune favored me as their voracious mandibles refrained from sinking into my flesh. Pause for a moment to envision the searing agony if this multitude of ants had launched a simultaneous assault on my skin.
I carefully removed the ants and then relocated to the other side of a small shrub where the ants were not present. I once again positioned myself uncomfortably on the slope and resumed taking pictures. However, in an unexpected turn of events, my camera suddenly powered off. As if fate had other plans, I lost my footing on the slope and found myself sliding down on my belly, with my legs and arms flailing,
The reward was beyond measure – a sight to behold, a splendid male Phyllobates Vittatus Poison Frog proudly carrying a plethora of tadpoles upon its back!
These challenges are the very hurdles we face as we immerse ourselves in authentic Nature photography. This path is strewn with difficulties and unrefined beauty, forming a tapestry of trials and wonders. And though the journey demands effort, it yields immeasurable rewards. However, it’s important to note that what you see on social media is merely the polished outcome, devoid of the journey and the struggles that brought it to life.
Wonderful stuff, Cynthia! Of course, the photo and the frog are magnificent! I can relate to the contortion. We see YouTuber photographers talking of steady hands and tripods, but not so easy when you’re handheld following a moving critter in a dark forest on a steep slope often in the rain! I certainly relate to the ant attack. If there is an ant column I will find it and stand in it and regret it 😅 Keep up the blogging!
Hi Cynthia, I loved the report behind these photos of frogs. I could even feel myself unconfortable imagining the situations you went through. When seeing the photos we can’t imagine all the troubles and work the photographer had to do.
I love reading these stories, that’s an easy way to live photography, once I’m not old enough to have these adventures anymore…
Good luck and keep your passion alive for a long time.