Nature Photography Day 2017

Nature Photography Day is June 15, 2017! So, what the heck is Nature Photography Day?

Painted Turtle Portrait

Nature Photography Day

“In 2006, NANPA (North American Nature Photography Association) celebrated the first Nature Photography Day and placed it in McGraw-Hill’s reference work, Chases’s Calendar of Events. Many media and websites took notice. Since then, people throughout the North American continent as well as overseas have discovered numerous ways to observe and enjoy the day.” – NANPA

Thursday, June 15 2017 marks 12 years of Nature Photography Day! Not only is this a day for photographers to capture the beauty of our natural world, it’s a day to promote the enjoyment of nature photography and celebrate how images have helped advance conservation efforts to preserve landscapes, plants and animal species around the world.

“Consider that the pursuit of nature photography has helped to save species of animals and plants, plus their habitat. Preservation is a legacy. In fact, the world’s first-ever national park—Yellowstone, in 1872—came about thanks to the images of William Henry Jackson.” – NANPA

Echinacea

The North American Nature Photography Association encourages people everywhere to enjoy the day by using a camera to explore the natural world. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy – your smartphone camera will be just fine. A backyard, park, or local lake close by can work. Walking, hiking, or riding a bike to take photos are activities that don’t lead to a carbon footprint and it’s appropriate for all ages and abilities. There are LOTS of parks and trails right in the Twin Cities where you can unplug, even if it’s just for 30 minutes. And just being out in nature can ease stress and improve mood!

How and where will you celebrate Nature Photography Day?