Story by Kelly McGreal
(This story was first published in the Spring/Summer 2024 issue of the Conservancy magazine.)
“Nature photography can be humbling,” says Jim Roetzel, nationally published photographer and
longtime member of the Cuyahoga Valley Photographic Society. It’s not hard to imagine what he means. Through the lens, photographers frame and capture the beauty, mystery, and power of nature. Sweeping landscapes, vast night skies, and animals in wild habitats inspire awe, reminding us that we’re not the center of the universe. Even though Roetzel is awed by nature, this isn’t exactly what he means by humbling.
To explain, he shares a story from Horseshoe Pond in Cuyahoga Valley National Park (CVNP). Settled in near a reedy bank, camera set up, he patiently waited for waterfowl to take flight. “I’m going to get a nice shot of these Canada geese flying out,” Roetzel recalls, “So I position myself with the wind and sun at my back, and they have to fly at me, lifting into the wind. There’s no way I’m not going to get this image.” The anticipated moment finally came. “The light is great. They look great. But then,” he says incredulously with a hint of amusement, “They do this 180 and just hurry out of the way, and I’m like — What the heck? That’s the humbling part.”
Many photographers, whether seasoned or new, understand how even the best laid plans can be thwarted by nature — weather, changing light, location conditions, fickle-minded geese — all can affect a photo shoot. Interestingly, chance factors are also opportunities to capture aspects of the natural world as they unexpectedly emerge. However, when it comes to nature photography, not everything is left to luck. Technique, skill, and regularly spending time outdoors go a long way. This is something lawyer Kevin O’Neil understood when he founded the Photo Society.
As an amateur photographer, O’Neil attended a photography workshop taught by renowned wilderness
photographer Galen Rowell in Glacier National Park. Inspired by the experience, he saw a need for local workshops, and the Cuyahoga Valley seemed like an ideal location. It would be easily accessible to participants in Northeast Ohio, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area (CVNRA) — later designated a national park in 2000 — had facilities that could be used for workshop gatherings and events.
O’Neil connected with the Cuyahoga Valley Association (CVA), the friends of the park group that eventually became the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. With the help of CVA Executive Director Peg Bobel, Diane Chalfant of the National Park Service, and CVNRA Superintendent John Debo, the idea for the Photo Society took shape. In 1991, the Cuyahoga Valley Photographic Society was officially formed.
O’Neil had a strong vision for the Photo Society from the start. “He purposely chose to call it a society,” notes Roetzel, “which implies an exchange of ideas, encouraging creativity and participation in all the different aspects of photography.” With this focus, the Photo Society developed a good reputation early on, drawing such acclaimed regional and national photographers as Robert Glenn Ketchum, Galen Rowell, June and John Shaw, William Neill, Ian Adams, Brenda Tharp, and Marie Reed to lead workshops. Roetzel reminisces, “Art Wolfe — one of the greatest nature photographers ever — we had him here. He shared his passions, his techniques, his spirit of being outside. So great.”
Presentations and workshops continue to be a staple of the Photo Society. Additionally, photo walks led by a senior member offer participants opportunities to get outdoors with fellow enthusiasts and learn from one another. Photo Society member Bindiganavale Vijayaraman says the walks have helped him explore different locations, subjects, and techniques, explaining, “After the photo walk, we share our photos and get to see how fellow photographers see things differently, along with a critique on how the photos can be improved. This is a great learning experience.”
Perhaps one of the most valuable aspects of nature photography is that it connects people to the environment. “It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of daily life,” says Photo Society member Betsy Banks. “Nature photography invites you to take a break, slow down, and tune into nature’s details and rhythms. This practice of paying close attention has connected me more deeply to the natural world.” Bill Currier, who credits the Photo Society with his personal development as a photographer, agrees.
For Currier, getting practical instruction in the field from Photo Society leaders and members has improved his technique, enhancing his passion for photography and the outdoors. His interest in nature photography has an added health benefit, too. “Nature photography motivates me to get outside,” he explains, “In nature, I am immersed in peace and quiet that enables me to relax, and experiencing its wonder and mystery leads me to capture these moments with my camera.”
Whether viewing an entire landscape or zooming in on intricate details, photography can be a means to
experience and appreciate nature. “If the camera’s the thing that gets you outside, if it gets you in the woods, it’s a good thing,” says Roetzel. To this end, Roetzel hopes involvement in the Photo Society allows photographers of all levels to develop their skills and affection for the natural world — even fickle-minded geese.
Interested in joining the Photo Society?
Photo Society membership benefits include discounts on workshops, tours, and events, as
well as invitations to attend quarterly photographic walks. New members can select any level
of Conservancy for CVNP membership in combination with membership to the Photo Society.
Active Conservancy for CVNP members can upgrade their current membership to a Photo Society membership by contacting Jessica Livers, Philanthropy Operations and Membership Manager
at [email protected] or 330-657-2909 ext. 166. Learn more at forcvnp.org/photo.
We’re grateful to Bruce Winges for providing a history of the Photo Society as well as his many years (since 1998) as Editor of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park calendar. In addition, Bruce is the current
President of the Photo Society and a member since 1991.
