Vacation time is often associated with relaxation, unwinding, and stepping away from the daily grind. As a photographer, it’s tempting to believe that vacation means putting the camera down and focusing solely on leisure activities. However, I’ve discovered that my passion for photography can intertwine seamlessly with my vacation experiences, allowing me to relax while doing what I love. In this blog, I’ll share my recent vacation adventure at Emerald Isle, North Carolina, where I embraced the art of capturing moments, both planned and serendipitous, and found true joy in my craft.

A Different Approach to Vacation Photography:

As a photographer, getting caught up in work and the pursuit of perfection is easy. However, I wanted to approach this vacation with a different mindset. I viewed it as an opportunity to capture moments of joy, love, and togetherness rather than focusing on technicalities or professional expectations. It was a chance to explore my creativity without constraints.

The Aerial Perspective:

One of the highlights of my vacation was using my drone to capture breathtaking shots of our family reunion at Emerald Isle. The aerial perspective offered a unique and mesmerizing view of the beach and our loved ones. It allowed me to document the coastline’s vastness, the ocean’s vibrant colors, and the beautiful landscapes surrounding us. The drone became a tool to create art while immersing myself in the vacation ambiance.

The Nikon Z9 Experience:

While the drone provided a great perspective, I also took the time to indulge in my passion for traditional photography. Armed with my trusty Nikon Z9 cameras, I photographed the pristine beaches, capturing their natural beauty at different times of the day. The calming sound of waves crashing against the shore and the warm golden light during sunrise and sunset provided the perfect backdrop for my artistic exploration.

Serendipitous Family Moments:

Amidst the scenic beauty of Emerald Isle, I made sure to be present and capture serendipitous moments of joy and connection within my family. I sought to freeze these fleeting moments, whether it was an impromptu sandcastle-building competition, a laughter-filled volleyball match, or a peaceful walk along the shore. These candid shots reminded me of the true essence of vacation—to create lasting memories and bonds with loved ones.

Family Photos and Absent Loved Ones:

Every year, I make it a tradition to take our family photos. These images serve as a testament to our unity, growth, and the love we share. However, this year, I couldn’t help but feel nostalgia and longing as I captured these moments without our children, Nelson, Taylor, and Chelle. While they couldn’t join us physically, their presence was felt in spirit, and the family photos reminded us of their importance in our lives.

Photographing for Joy:

In conclusion, my vacation experience at Emerald Isle taught me that doing what you love for a career doesn’t mean you have to put the camera down to relax. Instead, it’s about finding joy in photography without the pressures of deadlines or clients. It’s about immersing yourself in the beauty of your surroundings, capturing serendipitous moments, and cherishing the time spent with loved ones.

Photography, for me, has always been a source of relaxation and inspiration. By embracing a different approach during my vacation, I could unwind and recharge while doing what I love most. It reminded me of the power of photography to create meaningful connections and capture the beauty of life’s simplest pleasures.

So, the next time you embark on a vacation, don’t hesitate to pick up your camera and let your passion guide you. Find the balance between capturing memories and living in the moment, and you’ll discover a new level of relaxation and joy in your craft.