#52weeksofnature Photo Contest Week 33 Winner
The winner of Week 33 of our #52weeksofnature photo contest is Ryan Swanson (@eye_of_the_swan_photography). An approaching storm is a welcome sight when it comes to shooting landscape photos. Explore the Nature Photography Collective section on our site to view t-shirts of past winners.
Where was the image shot?
Bell Rock, Arizona
What camera did you use and what were the settings?
Camera: Canon 7D Mark II
Lens: Canon 10-22mm
Shutter Speed: 1/6 sec
Aperture: f/22
ISO: 100
Was there any special preparation required to capture the photo?
I climbed up to watch the sunset from Bell Rock. An afternoon storm rolled in and created some beautiful clouds above the red rocks across the valley. As the last light hit the rock faces I took my shots before the thunder and lightning rolled in.
How long have you been shooting?
I have been shooting for a little over a year now. I got the lens I took this photo with about 3 weeks before this shot.
What's your favorite subject matter to shoot?
That’s a toss up. I enjoy both wildlife and landscape photography. I guess I’m still figuring out what I want to specialize in.
Where would be your dream location to take photos?
I would love to make it out to Papua New Guinea someday. I’ve always wanted to shoot birds of paradise. The steep archipelagoes jutting out of the sea nearby makes for some stunning landscapes.
Who are some photographers that inspire you?
I’m a huge fan of Tim Laman. His wildlife pictures in remote sections of the world have always stunned me. Another great inspiration is Ansel Adams. I grew up exploring California’s Sierra Nevada mountains and Ansel’s photos have always loomed large in my mind. I’d also like to give a shoutout to my friend Benny (@birdsbybijs) who also won this contest. His photography really inspired me to pick up a camera.
What excites you about photography?
Being able to capture unique moments, whether that’s the thrill involved in snapping elusive wildlife or finding a new perspective to view a beautiful landscape. Photography enables me to connect people with nature. Through pictures people can see the natural world and be stunned by its beauty in the same way that I am every time I step outside.
