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In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan sits down with renowned wildlife photographer and nature guide, Eddy Savage. With over a decade of experience guiding in remote locations like the Great Bear Rainforest and the Arctic, Eddy has honed his skills in capturing stunning images of wildlife, from grizzly bears to the ethereal Northern Lights. His journey from a casual photographer to a full-time professional is one of passion, perseverance, and a deep connection with nature. Court and Eddy discuss the pivotal moments in his career, including his transition from adventure tourism to professional photography, and how he's learned to capture the beauty of the wild in some of the harshest conditions on Earth.

Throughout the episode, Eddy shares valuable tips on wildlife photography, particularly focusing on the gear and techniques needed to excel in extreme environments. Listeners will gain insight into how to prepare for unique photographic opportunities, from shooting in freezing temperatures to understanding animal behavior in the wild. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge, underscored by Eddy's genuine enthusiasm and expertise in the world of nature photography.

Expect to Learn:

• Eddy's background and how he started as a nature guide and photographer.
• Essential gear for wildlife photography and tips for capturing unique shots in the wilderness.
• Insights into photographing the Northern Lights and wildlife in extreme conditions.
• How perseverance plays a role in becoming a professional photographer.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] - Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout: Court introduces Eddy Savage and LensRentals.com.
• [00:01:34] - Eddy’s Journey to Nature Photography: Eddy talks about how he got into photography and guiding wildlife tours.
• [00:05:41] - Starting with Aurora Photography: Eddy explains his passion for capturing the Northern Lights and what he carries in his kit.
• [00:14:50] - Tips for Aurora Photography: A discussion about settings, composition, and techniques for shooting the Northern Lights.
• [00:22:43] - Wildlife Photography Insights: Eddy shares his experiences photographing polar bears and grizzly bears in remote locations.
• [00:34:55] - Practical Gear for Harsh Conditions: The importance of having the right gear and staying prepared in extreme conditions.
• [00:49:35] - Conservation and Photography: How photography can be a tool for conservation storytelling.
• [01:00:48] - Conclusion: Where to follow Eddy Savage and final thoughts from Court.

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

LensRentals.com.

Follow Eddy Savage on Socials:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eddysavagephoto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eddysavagephoto
• Website: https://eddysavage.photo/

Follow Court on Socials:

• Website: https://www.courtwhelan.com/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@courtwhelan
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/court_whelan/

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In this episode of The Wild Photographer, host Court Whelan explores the evolving role of physical filters in the age of digital photography. While many photographers rely heavily on post-processing software like Photoshop and Lightroom, Court argues that there are still certain filters that remain essential for achieving specific effects that digital tools can't replicate. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a photography enthusiast, this episode provides valuable insights into which filters you should consider keeping in your kit.

Court Whelan, a seasoned wildlife, nature, and landscape photographer with over 20 years of experience, hosts The Wild Photographer. Court is passionate about sharing his extensive knowledge of photography gear, techniques, and tips with his audience, helping them capture stunning images across the globe. His expertise is grounded in real-world experience, making his advice practical and valuable for photographers of all levels.

Expect to Learn:

• The historical significance of filters in photography and how digital tools have replaced many traditional filters.
• The essential filters that remain relevant today, including UV, polarizing, and neutral density filters.
• Tips on choosing the right UV and polarizing filters to protect your lens and enhance your photos.
• How to achieve the popular "silky water" effect in bright conditions using neutral density filters.
• Why certain modern filters, like black mist and gold mist filters, are gaining popularity, especially in cinematography.

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] - Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout:
  • Court introduces the episode topic and thanks the podcast sponsor, Lens Rentals.
• [00:03:00] - The History of Filters in Photography:
  • A look back at the traditional use of filters and their evolution in the digital age.
• [00:07:20] - The UV Filter: Protecting Your Investment:
  • Court explains the importance of UV filters and how they act as a protective layer for your lenses.
• [00:11:45] - Polarizing Filters: Do You Need One?
  • The benefits of using a polarizing filter, especially for landscape photography, and tips for selecting a high-quality one.
• [00:18:10] - Neutral Density Filters: Essential for Silky Water Effects:
  • Court discusses how neutral density filters allow for long exposure shots in daylight, creating stunning effects with moving water.
• [00:25:30] - Graduated Neutral Density Filters: Are They Still Relevant?
  • An exploration of graduated ND filters and how modern software might replace their use.
• [00:30:40] - Emerging Filters: Black Mist and Gold Mist:
  • A look at the rising trend of black mist and gold mist filters and their applications in photography and videography.
• [00:35:20] - Achieving the Starburst Effect Without Filters:
  • Court shares a pro tip on how to capture the starburst effect using only your camera's settings.
• [00:40:00] - Conclusion and Final Thoughts:
  • A summary of the episode's key points and a reminder to leave a review to support the podcast.

If you'd like to help support the podcast, use these links below if you plan on renting or purchasing a lens! (by the way, you get 15% off at LensRentals.com by using the promo code WildPhotographer15).

My Full Camera Kit:

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If you know you know...these are highly revered and often photographers' go-to lenses. But how do they stack up for wildlife, landscape, travel, and general nature photography?

Well, I just returned from a Borneo Photo Expedition and found that I had this on my camera about 80% of the time. Yep, they're that good.

In this episode I go over all the reasons why these are exceptional lenses for nature photography, but also acknowledge some of their downsides.

If you'd like to help support the podcast, use these links below if you plan on renting or purchasing a lens! (by the way, you get 15% off at LensRentals.com by using the promo code WildPhotographer15).

My Full Camera Kit:
Canon R5 Body
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8
Canon RF 24-105mm f/4
Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1
Canon RF 70-200 f/2.8
Canon EF Macro 100mm f/2.8
Canon RF 50mm f/1.8
Peak Design Carbon Fiber Tripod