Some Call Her The “Dolphin Whisperer”
Your work is lovely and nice to meet you. Tell us to start in what part of First Coast do you reside now and how long have you lived there?
I have lived in St. Augustine for 13 years, in Vilano Beach for the last 8 years.
What is your favorite part of the First Coast to photograph?
Our beautiful beaches.
What type of equipment do you use?
I use my iPhone 13 Pro the most because of the simplicity of not having to carry a lot of heavy gear on beach walks. I also use a Canon 7D Mark II and Canon t6s.
How long have you been part of the hobby?
I started in 1988 with a Commercial Photography class in high school. It was fun to work in a dark room!
Do you do any type of planning before you head out to take photos or do you just wing it?
It depends. A lot of times I just wing it unless there’s a specific event (i.e. weather event, full moon, etc.) that is intentional. Oftentimes a walk turns into hours.
Are there any constants in your photography, if so what are they? (ie. subjects, editing, lens, etc.)
Yes, definitely sunsets, sunrises, dolphins, rainbows, scenics of various sorts and other wildlife. I have been a storm chaser all my life so I love to photograph storms too.
How would you describe your style of photography?
Scenic and Wildlife. I also enjoy creating art with my beach finds that I sometimes photograph too.
Do you edit your photos right after your shoot or do you let them sit for a while?
I do my best, but I honestly cannot keep up! I take more photos than I can keep up with!
Where is your favorite place (or type of place) to take photos?
The beach and nature settings. It’s where I find my peace. I like to call it photography therapy.
If you could live in any decade (with your current photographic gear), which one would it be and why?
Honestly, I feel any decade would be great with each decade having its own diverse photo opportunities.
What photographer (current or historical) do you draw the most inspiration from?
Shelley Lynch Photography
What do you think is the most important component to producing great results? (camera, lens, light, editing, location, artistic vision, etc.)
It is difficult to choose one. Definitely lighting, focus, composition and artistic vision.
Is there a ritual that you use to get into a creative zone?
I do not have a specific ritual. There are times I will be in a car or on a walk and I just “see” the photo opportunity and have to pull over. I am grateful I have a patient husband!
What outside (non-photographic) influences (if any) shape your photography?
There are too many to name but there are many fishermen that have mentored me, encouraged me and taught me so much in the last 13 years. They have helped me improve my photography by sharing with me what to watch for and when. I am grateful for each person that has supported me, encouraged me and helped me believe in myself when I didn’t have the confidence in my work.
What advice would you give someone who just picked up their new camera on how to get started?
I would say do not be intimated by photographers with all of the expensive equipment. You don’t need to spend thousands of dollars to capture great images. In the digital world, just keep practicing. It’s trial and error. I am always learning! I watch a lot of tutorials to learn as much as I can as often as I can. Keep it fun!
What is the goal of your photography? (A business, just to share on social media, gateway to adventure, etc.)
I have worked in the healthcare field for 28 years, which I enjoy, but my passion is photography. They say choose a job you love so that you will never have to work a day in your life. It would be a blessing to be given the opportunity to make a living doing more of what I love. Photography is never “work” to me.
Do you shoot with your editing style in mind, or do you edit based on the shot that you got?
I try to do very little editing. I like my photos to look as close to natural as possible.
Do you prefer to photograph alone, or in a group?
I prefer to photograph alone or with my husband.
How do you feel like social media has changed photography and do you think it’s a good or bad thing?
I feel it has its pros and cons. It’s great for exposure and networking.
What is the best way for photographers to network?
Social Media. I have recently joined a couple of local Facebook photography groups.
What is your favorite photographic accomplishment?
I competed at a national level in high school
for Commercial Photography where I placed 3rd.
What’s the best thing for you about living on the First Coast?
The opportunity to photograph beautiful scenery and wildlife every day!
Is there anything else that you want to tell everyone?
There is beauty in everything if we look for it. I appreciate the positive feedback from all who support me and encourage me in my photography.
How can we see your work?
www.TurningTidePhotography.com
Instagram @turningtidephotos
Facebook: Turning Tide Photography
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- About the Author
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Glenn is the founder and publisher of First Coast Life. He is also a wonderful storyteller. Born on the 4th of July, he spends his spare time taking his camera and exploring everything beautiful this region offers with his rescue dog Callie by his side. He loves meeting new people and capturing the many beautiful moments and amazing local stories that showcase the true spirit of the area.
One Response
Nikki is an awesome photographer! I have her work in my home and it’s beautiful. Looking forward to more!