cowboydid2 Loc: The highways and byways of America

So, actually joined up back in October, but wasn't really sure what I wanted to say about the series of events that have led me down my current path. I suppose I should begin in February of last year when my father died. Drove to California for the services, came back down Route 66, with an obvious stop at the Grand Canyon. Realized there was no way a cell phone could capture the awe inspiring majesty that we witnessed.(Still took lots of pics with the phone, though.) Fast forward to the middle of March, my 52 year old brother-in-law, military contractor in perfect shape, had a massive brain aneurysm, died instantly. And then, May 3rd, I had a massive heart attack, and if I hadn't been in the emergency room at the time, I wouldn't be here now. I am now retired. I am going to spend the rest of my days raising my 5 children, the ones still left at home, travelling around the country, and honing my photography skills. I think it"s going to be quite the adventure, as my 10 and 12 year old sons are also interested in the craft, and they each have their own DSLR's. Anyway, this isn't about getting any sympathy, just my motivations for learning everything I can about the craft, and hopefully someday be an actual photographer, as opposed to just being a guy that takes pictures, which I am now. Carpe diem!!

PAR4DCR Loc: A Sunny Place

Welcome to UHH cowboydid2, glad you joined us. Wishing you the best of luck with your health problems.
Have fun, learn and enjoy the forum.

Don

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

Seize the day and your camera. Welcome. Have fun.

pesfls Loc: Oregon, USA

Outstanding you’re keeping your chin up. As someone said, “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” Best of luck on this journey.

luvmypets Loc: Born & raised Texan living in Fayetteville NC

As I read your introduction I didn't take what you wrote as a search for sympathy but as someone who has come to understand in an up close and personal way that life is too short and you should enjoy each and every day you have with those you love doing the things that make you happy.

I wish you the greatest joy and wonderful adventure in the days ahead. Carpe diem, indeed!!!


Regards,
Dodie

RichardTaylor Loc: Sydney, Australia

Welcome to the forums.

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

Sorry to read of your travails. If you could home school your kids it sounds like an opportunity to go on the road with an RV. My wife and I have been doing it for 14 years, never looked back and have photos from all over the country to show for it.

cowboydid2 Loc: The highways and byways of America

Got news for ya Chief, kids ARE home schooled and just finished all the repairs on the travel trailer. Going to Carlsbad sometime in the next 10 days. Spending at least 6 months out of the year on the road is part of the plan.

Retired CPO Loc: Travel full time in an RV

Sounds like you have it going on. Enjoy the miles on the road, and remember to share some photos with the HOG.

Katydid Loc: Davis, CA

Nothing wrong with being a guy who takes pictures. Wishing you the best onward.

MikeMck Loc: Southern Maryland on the Bay

Welcome!

joehel2 Loc: Cherry Hill, NJ

Welcome to the forum.

gsmith051 Loc: Fairfield Glade, TN

Best of luck to you and welcome to the forum.

wds0410 Loc: Nunya

I would suggest that you use Youtube to learn. There are a lot of really good content providers who can help you on this journey and provide inspiration and education. Some of these are really, really good photographers -- should mention that most are in the landscape genre which what I am most interested in.

Here are some that I follow regularly:

Adam Gibbs
Attilio Ruffo
fototripper
Nick Page
Scott Davenport
Jim Nix
Thomas Heaton
Mads Peter Iverson
Nigel Danson
Photo Tom
Simon Baxter
Simon Booth
Matt Granger
Gary Gough
Jared Polin

photophly Loc: Old Bridge NJ

Welcome to the Hog