Yellowstone National Park – September 8-12
Old Faithful erupted right on schedule and bison, bear, elk, and their associates in the animal kingdom posed handsomely, as over 50 lovers of the great outdoors gathered in for RMOWP’s 37th annual conference. The early September weather was perfect – especially for those who enjoy a bit of rain and snow with their sunshine – and participants came away with great photos and possibly greater memories.
There were ten people attending their first conference, and attendees came from 13 states.
Conference highlights included early morning photo shoots with internationally-known photographer Tom Ulrich, who also presented a fine show of his work, with numerous anecdotes about how he got those shots, plus a workshop on how to create a digital photo presentation using ProShow Gold software. A drawing for a free copy of ProShow Gold, donated by the company, was won by Buellah Bishop.
Geologist Trobe Gross provided some insights into volcanic activity around the world and right under our feet in Yellowstone; the writers’ critique, led by Kenita Gibbins, included readings by Kenita, Cecilia Travis and Richard Holmes, with comments from the participants and spectators; and photographer and videographer Al Perry showed us how he likes to get up close and personal with the polar bears of Alaska.
A panel discussion on the business of outdoor writing and photography became a truth game, as RMOWP members Richard Youngblood, Jon Sheppard, Dave Pecoraro, Jack Olson, Terry Guthrie, and Don Laine spoke candidly about how changing times and technology have affected the way they go about trying to make a buck, and what works and what doesn’t.
Conditions and timing were perfect for Jack Olson’s Saturday sunrise photo shoot, and there were ample opportunities to explore the scenic drives and trails of this huge national park. In addition, we saw some wonderful photography in contest submissions, the photo critique, and the showcase of selected members’ photography.
The annual auction raised over $1,500 for the RMOWP scholarship fund. As usual, the conference concluded with a banquet and awards ceremony, but this year there was something else – a special recognition of members Rick and Debbie Lesquier, who had recently married and were including the conference in their honeymoon.
Conference organizers Don Laine, Jack Olson and Cecilia Travis produced another great conference.