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John Hyde: Alaskan Photographer "Wild Things Photography was born from my appreciation of all things wild and by an inherent quest to explore the natural world around me. I can't imagine doing anything else that would provide the satisfaction I receive from sharing my work with others, opening windows that help enrich their lives and appreciation for the intrinsic values of wild things and wild places. Students often ask me what the 'perfect picture' is and that is simple. The perfect picture is the one that drives you to make another. Each image should be viewed as a stepping stone to the next. That is the philosophy that drives my creative vision." Artist Statement My goal as an artist is to create images that inspire. I have chosen the media of photography in my pursuit to accomplish this objective. Sometimes I venture out and just react to whatever strikes me, while in other instances a specific "pre-visualized" image is my objective. Occasionally the inspiration for an image occurs after the shutter has been clicked. In the past, the execution of these images was limited to what I could achieve in the darkroom and at times frustration was all that transpired. Obtaining a satisfactory representation of what was in my mind on paper just didn't happen. Today a new darkroom tool, the computer, has at least limited that frustration to some degree, helping to make it possible to now share some of these images with others. Because digital compositions are not literal representations but are instead infused with the personal interpretation of the artist and since the medium of photography has traditionally represented physical moments in time, I believe it is my responsibility to let the viewer know when they are not looking at a traditional photography. I feel the same sense of accomplishment from the creation of an image whether it was made entirely in the camera or assembled with the assistance of a computer. Images created outside the camera often represent considerably more labor than those which are single entities and many times are simply not possible to achieve in a single exposure. The premise that one can create an exciting digital image with little effort or from mediocre photographs is false. Essentially because such an image requires the best images possible to work from in the first place. The same dedication and commitment are required in order for both to be successful. Photography and digital imagery are completely different mediums because in photography one works in the present and in digital imagery the past is brought into the present. The use of both mediums allows me to extend the satisfaction I receive from the immediacy of photography into both worlds. Digitally composed images are as genuine as any other form of art. The computer is only a tool that takes its commands from the artist. Otherwise it just sits there like any other device, waiting to be told what to do. These images are no less "true" than any other form of art, regardless of medium. They are simply creative forms of self expression. When I'm out taking photographs my goal is to get the best images I can on a single frame of film that represents a concessive moment that can be shared with others. Sometimes it takes days, weeks, even months or years before I obtain the image I'm after. When I work digitally the process is entirely different. Sometimes the inspiration for an image comes from past photographs but in most cases it arises from an image that evolves in my imagination which I then try to construct using photographs and various tools in the computer. The process is very similar to when artist paints or a creative writer composes, the end product is a distillation of the experience as they remember and choose to interpret it, allowing the artist to share their conceptualization with others. Education: MS/MFA Environmental Sciences/Visual Arts Work: 20 Years in still and motion picture photography www.wildthingsphotography.com Photo Workshop Aboard the M/V Catalyst: John Hyde will be conducting a photo workshop aboard the CATALYST while we adventure into the Alaskan wilderness. This custom charter is offered to those interested in learning more about taking nature photos onsite. Space limited. The content of the workshop will evolve around finding exciting images, working with compositions in nature, and with wildlife as opportunities develop. Depending on the desires of the participants John will also offer suggestions on how to successfully photograph for the stock photo or assignment markets. If the participants' desires are essentially artistic, he will spend more time discussing composition, technique, and personal expression. Photography excursions will be scheduled during the mornings and evenings, with critiques and discussions during the day, at least for those shooting digital. For digital photographers John will also offer some basics of digital processing and image management. Location: Exploration and photography along the mainland between Juneau and Petersburg with an emphasis on visiting the area's glaciers and old growth forest environments. When: ( see Updated Schedule for Availability or call ) Juneau to Petersburg: May 27 to June 2, 2007. Cost: Rates: $3325-$3875 per person (DO and single berths) Contact Pacific Catalyst to reserve your space. all images, copyright 2006 john hyde click for larger images   HOME | Vessel | News | Request Info | Registration | Pre-Trip Info | Online Brochure | Contact