Echoes of the Wild
By
Mario Cortez
A visual journey into my wildlife adventures. What inspires me when I look through the lens, and some things I have learned through the years. I hope to see you there.
Quick recap
The Sandwich Photographic Society held its monthly meeting on March 12th, featuring a presentation by Mario Cortez, a renowned wildlife photographer who shared his techniques and experiences capturing animals at zoos and national parks. Mario discussed his approach to photography, emphasizing patience, understanding animal behavior, and using natural lighting. He showcased a variety of his work, including images of wolves, eagles, bighorn sheep, and landscapes from locations such as Yellowstone, the Badlands, and Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Members asked questions about Mario's equipment, shooting techniques, and post-processing methods. The conversation ended with an announcement about upcoming society events and a reminder for members to visit the society's website for more information and to join.
Summary
Photography Journey and Techniques
Mario shared his photography journey, starting with his early experiences using a 35mm camera and transitioning to digital photography, which provided immediate feedback and allowed for more experimentation. He discussed his evolution into wildlife photography, particularly at zoos like Brookfield, where he learned the importance of patience, respect for nature, and capturing emotional moments. Mario explained key photography techniques, including the use of shallow depth of field, directional lighting, and catch lights to enhance images, and he emphasized the importance of spending more time with subjects to capture meaningful moments. He also shared specific examples of his work with various animals and highlighted the role of lighting in creating impactful photographs.
Local Photography Spots Overview
Mario presented a comprehensive overview of local photography spots and wildlife in the area. They discussed Matheson park, highlighting its waterfalls and canyons, and noted challenges with algae affecting photo opportunities at the I&M Canal. Mario shared numerous bird photography experiences, including tips for capturing wildlife at various locations like Harvey Creek park and Yorkville Bridge, and mentioned the requirement for reservations at Fermilab. They also explained their photography techniques, particularly for capturing action shots of birds and wildlife.
Bird Photography Experiences and Tips
Mario shared various bird photography experiences, including capturing images of catfish, Sandhill cranes, swans, and pelicans. He emphasized the importance of patience and positioning in photography, particularly highlighting a memorable encounter with pelicans at Yorkville Dam. Mario also discussed his visits to national parks like Yellowstone and Teddy Roosevelt National Park, mentioning encounters with bears and bighorn sheep.
Wildlife Photography Insights and Tips
Mario shared detailed insights and experiences about wildlife photography, focusing on various animals like bighorn sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, buffalo, horses, elk, and moose. They discussed specific behaviors, such as the flehmen response in male bighorn sheep and elk, and shared tips on finding and photographing these animals in locations like Theodore Roosevelt National Park, the Badlands, and Glacier National Park. Mario also recounted challenges, such as extreme weather conditions and missed photo opportunities, highlighting the unpredictable nature of wildlife photography.
Landscape Photography Techniques and Experiences
Mario shared his landscape photography techniques and experiences, emphasizing his preference for shooting before sunrise when light conditions are optimal. He presented several photos from different locations including Bighorn Canyon, Devil's Tower, Yellowstone's Lower Falls, Spearfish Falls, and Teddy Roosevelt National Park, explaining the challenges and experiences associated with capturing each image. Mario also shared some humorous "bloopers" from his photography sessions, including interactions with wildlife.
Zoo Photography Techniques Presentation
Mario presented on his photography techniques, particularly focusing on wildlife photography at zoos. He shared his workflow including using HDR programs and dodging/burning techniques, while emphasizing that he avoids shooting through glass enclosures. The discussion covered practical questions about zoo photography, including best times to visit (January for fewer crowds) and challenges with lens fogging.