Exploring Over 1,000,000 acres
My last blog post was about fall mist in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, but the 2020 fall season had a lot more to it then a few misty mornings. It’s been a busy one. Pandemic restrictions lifted enough to so I could start holding small photography workshops. My webinar on photographing the New Jersey Pine Barrens for the B&H Event Space attracted a number of people who wanted custom workshops and lessons. But the big thing has been finishing up a 2+ year book project.
Photographing the New Jersey Pine Barrens – The Book
There are books about the Pine Barrens’ natural environment and quirky history. There are also guide books for outdoor enthusiasts. One book that is missing is a photography guide, and for the last 2+ years I’ve been working on rectifying that. This guide, when published in 2021 will contain over 50 locations with descriptions, directions, recommended camera equipment and more.
Finishing up the book had me traveling all over the Pines 1,000,000+ acres to photograph fall scenes in private preserves, state forests, parks and wildlife management areas. It was quite a journey and the Pine Barrens did not disappoint. Below are some recent images that will be appearing in the book.
Fall Colors
Fall hasn’t been all work and no play. Okay, even my work is play these days, but it was great to have time to wander around the Pines photographing the landscape dressed up for fall.
A Pine Barrens Sunset
My previous blog post had misty images from other morning workshops, but this sunset workshop in the Franklin Parker Preserve had a special treat. This preserve is a jewel of the Pine Barrens and on this particular workshop we were able to photograph the sunset and a full moon rise shortly afterwards. It has been very rewarding partnering with the New Jersey Conservation Foundation on these workshops.
Last Signs Of Fall
The fall colors hung on until early November due to unseasonably warm weather and a late frost. Still this isn’t the end note for beauty in the Pine Barrens, it is just the transition to winter which is another season always worthy of exploring.
Although my book is in its final stages, here is a free guide to 5 locations in the New Jersey Pine Barrens. While you are clicking links, here is some information on my photography workshops. Stay tuned for spring dates.
Enjoy!
Great compilation. Enjoyed my two trips there with the groups.
Thanks Rich. It’s always a pleasure to have you on these workshops.
Your book will be a great contribution to the Pine Barrens. Looking forward to having a copy.
Thank you Larry! I hope this book gives photographers, and other explorers a long list of possibilities.
Richard – A number of months ago I had taken a trip down to photograph the Pine Barrens. Wanted to see this place, but ended up never being able to find what I wanted. It was frustrating for me. I even traveled RT73 South, but never found the Cypress Swamps they talk about. Made a long trip for nothing. I’ll try again in the Spring.
Sorry you didn’t find what you were looking for. This is exactly why I wrote this book, to help photographers like you who are unfamiliar with the Pine Barrens to find places to shoot great photographs. Hopefully it will be out by the time you are ready to come back and visit us again.
Well I for one can’t wait for your book to come out. Love to see the pines exposed in all its glory!!!
You and me both Mike! I did the last photograph for the book yesterday and the text is with the editor. It’s been a long, fun labor of love but I’m looking forward to the finished product.
Your Fall in the Pines does not disappoint! Nor do our beloved Pines! Whether a misty morning or stunning sunset and everywhere in between, you captured so much of the unique beauty of our Pines! Well done my friend!
Thank you Ron. Between workshops and my own personal photography, it’s been a terrific fall and it was great to be out in the Pines to experience it and n ow share it.
Wonderful images showing the beauty of South Jersey’s Pinelands. Congratulations on the book … I’m sure it will be a big success!
Thanks Denise. The book is a labor of love and now that I’ve been confined to the Pines, it’s even more so.