Since picking up a camera seriously for the first time about 5 1/2 years ago, a lot has happened that has been completely unexpected.
There have been unexpected encounters with wildlife, one so close I could have reached out and touched him as he passed. One such encounter was unexpected, exhilarating, and terrifying, all at the same time, though not close enough to touch, more than close enough!
I never expected winter to be my favorite time of the year to photograph, nor did I expect to become hopelessly addicted to winter hiking. Scenes like the one below are even more breathtaking when blanketed in snow.
The most unexpected of all? Never in my wildest dreams did I think photography would be anything other than a fleeting hobby, like so many that have come before it. And yet, here I am, writing this blog ( the most unexpected of the unexpected?). I’ve even written an article for the WordPress Photography 101 series.
I have my own website, (didn’t see this one coming either), where you can purchase high quality prints of my best images.
I also have close to 100 prints, mostly large and/or on canvas, in the hands of private collectors. The fact that someone would actually pay for one of my photographs still surprises and excites me, a feeling that hasn’t lessened with time.
I have licensed images for use on websites, of course I have a Facebook fan page, (where I invite you all to be among the first to see my newest work by clicking “Like” and becoming a fan). And possibly the most unexpected, and exciting occurrence to date, this crimson plumed gentleman will be staring back at you from the back cover of the February, 2014 issue of Ranger Rick Jr Magazine, a monthly magazine for kids put out by the National Wildlife Federation. The success of my attempt at becoming more than just “another guy with a camera,” has been quite unexpected.
Last, but far from least, there’s you, my fans, followers, and subscribers. The 1,800+ subscribers to my blog may be small peanuts to many in the online community, but to me it’s huge. Every one of you motivates me to become better at my craft, and keep creating content to earn your continued loyalty.
Thank You!
Jeff Sinon Photography 
I loved Ranger Rick magazine!! (haven’t seen a copy in years, though) Congratulations on all your unexpected accomplishments!
Thanks, me too! You know, I remember Ranger Rick being in the waiting room of the doctors’ and dentists’ offices when I was a kid.
Yes, along with Holiday (remember those little puzzles?). But we were subscribers and got it delivered to our home 🙂
Congratulations on all your accomplishments–the post is a perfect response to the challenge.
Thank you Sally!
Love all of them but especially the cardinal. 🙂
Thanks Dorothy! I get that a lot with the cardinal. And to think my wife made fun of me as I dressed head to toe in camo to sit on our deck to stalk the bird feeder. Who’s laughing now I ask? 😀
Gorgeous – your love of nature shines through your photos
Thank you Nora. With or without the camera, I’ve always love being outdoors. The camera simply enables me to share my experiences with others.
Once again I bow down to your incredible skill and accomplishments. You are a perfect example of someone who followed through with what they love to do and made it into something wonderful. I admire you greatly :).
Thank you Cindy. I’ll always remember your comment of a couple of years ago expressing surprise that I was if fact not already a professional photographer. I consider that one of the highest compliments I’ve ever received.
You have always been a professional in my eyes :).
Awe, shucks! 😉
A wonderful example of life unfolding when you least expect it.
Thank you Jean, I wholeheartedly agree.
Awesome photos
Thank you Sweetness!
You are welcome 🙂
Congratulations, Jeff. From the quality of your photos, you certainly deserve all the accolades of various types. I’ve been close to moose and a bear, as well, and I always remind people (not you) to remember that they’re wild animals, not even remotely close to being domesticated or “nice.” 🙂 Keep up the great work. It’s always a joy to see what you offer to us.
janet
Nice way to start a Saturday! Thanks Jeff! The dragonflies forming a heart are wonderful!
Thank you! The lovely couple is one of the few “good” photos I made in 2008.
They were quite enthralling : ) One of the few?? Really?
Thank you very much. Yes, really. Of what I’m sure were several thousand clicks of the shutter, there are only 94 image files left from 2008. And I bet half of those could stand to be deleted. Back then I was your typical “spray and pray” noobie, pointing my camera at anything and everything, not really having more than a basic idea of what I was doing. Believe me, I wasn’t always as good as you seem to think I am now 😉
Well your work speaks for itself and we all start somewhere and aspire to be better ! 🙂
Thank you again, and how very true. I still don’t think I’m “good enough.” I’m constantly striving to improve.
Yes we all do so here I think !
It feels good to count one’s blessings, and you have counted them right :D. I have, am and will be following your inspiring work and your adventures. Take care, Jeff 🙂
Paula, you continue to be one of my most loyal fans, as well as someone who’s opinion I respect.
🙂 Thank you Mr S 🙂
This is such a heart warming and inspiring story Jeff! I am so happy for you and all the great moments photography has brought into your life. Stunning photos!
Thank you Elina, photography has been very good to me, and not just monetarily. My camera has helped me to see things I had only hoped to see, and in ways that has made me appreciate them even more.
Your pictures are amazing. I love looking at them. I especially like the one of the red bird – I am not surprised it was chosen for a magazine cover.
Thank you very much Colline.
Congratulations on your Ranger Rick Jr. photo, that’s great 🙂
Thank you! I already now exactly how I’m going to have the free issue they’re going to send me framed 😀
Excellent!
how cool is all of that! the images, and your upcoming feature on Ranger Rick Jr! congrats!!
sorry about all the exclamation marks, but way to go Jeff! 🙂
Thanks! I like exclamation marks!! 😀 They show exactly how I feel about my first magazine cover. Hopefully the next one will be a front cover!
Cool…keep up the great works and sharing. It’s very inspiring 🙂
Thanks a lot Paul!
I have come to expect the unexpected from you, Jeff, and you consistently satisfy the expectation. Keep inspiring us with your energy and your craft!
Thanks Gary. I hope to continue to live up to the expectation.
Congrars on your well-deserved success Jeff!
Thank you Tina!
Congratulations Jeff! Every single accolade and recognition is well deserved…..not unexpected at all 🙂
These are truly amazing! I love the first bug one. It is awesome that you can capture such beauty and detail in each picture!
Thank you very much Jessica.
NIce collection Jeff.
Your shots are amazing, Jeff! So inspiring!
Thank you!
Congratulations,Jeff!! I guessed the right photo too! 🙂
Thank you, and yes you did! 😀
You’re most welcome! 🙂
Now what a wonderful example of unexpected! Your magazine cover shot is amazing … like that cardinal is speaking to us!
Winter is also a favorite time for me. The opportunities for photography are endless.
Congratulations on your successes!
Thanks a lot LB. I do hope winter gets here soon!
Wishing you continued success – your photos are truly amazing and always make me smile. Thanks.
Thank you Marcia, that’s one of the best compliments I could get. I know I’ve talked about my desire to become a full time pro, selling prints left and right, but if all I ever do is put a smile on peoples faces, that will be quite an accomplishment in itself.
Congratulations on your many accomplishments… well deserved, your photography is always wonderful! 🙂
Thank you! 😀