Garrapata Beach Sunset Why do I take pictures?

We are so fortunate to live here! A short drive, or even a short walk, can bring us to a place of amazing beauty. We are surrounded by a dazzling display of natural beauty and wildlife diversity.

Photography, except possibly the work of the most gifted shooters, can't fully deliver the effect of actually being there. However, I believe the overwhelming attraction of photography is the attempt to capture not just the physical scene but the emotional impact that scene has had on us as photographers.  We are simply compelled to try to preserve and prolong that experience through the images we make.

A successful image makes you stop, look and linger. It urges you to put yourself in that place, to feel, hear and smell it. Best of all, it allows you to take away a small part of the experience to keep. 

How could I not take pictures?