We recently connected with Amy Ames and have shared our conversation below.
Amy, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
A family trip to Yellowstone National Park in 2016 changed the course of my photography journey forever. Although I had been drawn to photography for years, I spent much of my early years photographing people. However, this trip marked the beginning of a new path for me. In 2017, I embarked on my first major adventure to Alaska. Lake Clark National Park filled me with a new enthuasism with every click of my camera.
My passion drove me to immerse myself in learning about both photography and wildlife. I spent countless hours studying animal behavior, understanding their environments, and mastering the technical aspects of wildlife photography. Each new piece of knowledge deepened my appreciation for the subjects I captured.
Over time, my hobby evolved into a calling. I realized that my photographs had the power to raise awareness about the beauty and fragility of wildlife and their habitats. I wanted to inspire others to appreciate and protect the natural world as much as I do. This realization became my driving force. Each expedition brought new experiences and further solidified my purpose.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
My passion extends beyond just taking photographs. I am deeply committed to raising awareness about conservation and the importance of protecting our planet’s wildlife. My images are a tool to inspire others to appreciate and safeguard the natural world. Through photography, I believe we can foster a deeper connection between people and nature, encouraging collective efforts to preserve our precious environment for future generations.
My photography business is flourishing and evolving. For several years, I have been leading group trips into Yellowstone National Park each winter, and this year marks a period of rapid growth and change. I aim to expand these trips to other times of the year. I also am co-hosting a few workshops along the California Coast this year. Additionally, I have introduced private mentoring sessions to my offerings. Helping others on their photography journey has always been a passion of mine, and I am thrilled to formalize this through one-on-one guidance.
For those interested in my work, I am expanding my online presence with a revamped website and an online store where prints of my photographs can be purchased. Later in 2024, I will be teaching an online class about wildlife photography. Keep an eye on my website for more details about this exciting new opportunity.
I invite everyone to join me on this journey, to explore the wonders of the natural world through my lens, and to take part in the mission to protect and preserve our planet.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities and skills have been most impactful in my journey as a wildlife photographer: patience, continuous learning, and an understanding of wildlife behavior. Here’s why these have been crucial and my advice for those early in their journey:
-Wildlife photography requires a great deal of patience. Capturing the perfect shot often means waiting for hours, or even days, for the right moment. Patience allows you to observe and understand animal behavior, which leads to more insightful and compelling photographs.
-The field of photography is always evolving with new techniques, equipment, and software. Keeping up with these changes and continually improving your skills is essential to stay relevant and produce high-quality work.
-A deep understanding of wildlife behavior is crucial for predicting the actions of animals and capturing them in their natural habitats. This knowledge not only enhances the quality of your photographs but also ensures ethical and respectful interaction with wildlife.
For those early in their journey, I advise focusing on developing these three areas. Be patient with yourself and the process, never stop learning, and immerse yourself in understanding the wildlife you aim to capture. By honing these qualities and skills, you’ll set a solid foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in wildlife photography.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
My husband’s unwavering support, both emotionally and practically, has been instrumental in my success as a wildlife photographer. His encouragement to continuously learn and grow, coupled with his constructive feedback, has helped me develop the essential skills and qualities needed in this field. For anyone early in their journey, finding a supportive and encouraging partner can make a significant difference in overcoming challenges and achieving success. I will never forget that first trip to Alaska. It was so expensive and a huge stretch for our budget. I promised that it would be a one and done type trip….that didn’t happen.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://amyamesphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointamesandshoot/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyamesphoto
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