In keeping up with my resolutions for 2006, I recently attended my first photography workshop/seminar/course this year.  “Inside Secrets of Successful Travel Photography” is part of the National Geographic Traveler Seminar Series hosted by Santa Fe Workshops in different cities around the U.S. & Canada throughout the year.  The one-day seminar was held at the Seattle Central Library and presented by renowned National Geographic photographer, Jim Richardson, and National Geographic Traveler’s Senior Photo Editor, Dan Westergren.  You can read their bios and review the topics covered during the seminar on the Santa Fe Workshops site. I enjoyed the 7–hour seminar because it allowed me to learn the habits and practices of people who have been in the business of taking pictures that others want to see.  Understanding what makes a photo great in the eyes of a professional photographer and a seasoned photo editor was educational and enlightening.  My favorite quote of the day came from Jim Richardson when he flatly stated, “You want to take better pictures?  Stand in front of more interesting stuff.”  It is very simple, very true and very difficult to do without tons of preparation.  The preparation was the piece I underestimated and now that I know its importance I will treat how I prepare for future trips to exotic and photogenic places differently.

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