I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures and sharing the related stories because I’m bringing back the experience to those who weren't along.   I’ve seen plenty of people’s pictures and said “I’m putting that on my list of things to do”.  Pictures & stories encourage us to explore the various aspects of our world first hand.

At a local State Park, I had volunteered to help with media/marketing for the various events. I’d send verbose descriptions of an upcoming event to a list of media contacts.   However, free event listings are limited to a 3 line description: the event name, the time, & location. Free is good for a state park's budget, but 3 lines is not enough space to convey intriguing details that draw people to the event. 

Shortly after, a friend asked me to attend one of their frog watch events. I was skeptical, but I went anyway and had a blast learning about the frogs. In addition to learning, I used modern digital weather tools, and enjoyed being outdoors.

It was suggested that I write about the event and post it on Yourhub.com. So I wrote just like I saw it; a skeptical person going off into the wilderness to do something that sounded very odd and ended up having a lot of fun.   A few weeks later, I received a call from the State Park saying they continued to receive numerous inquiries because of that article.  A simple story, told from the heart turned out to be the best advertising.

It was effective because it summed up everything I enjoy; taking pictures, telling a story, & educating people.   Doing what you enjoy always brings out a person's best & subsequent articles ended up being published as well, with one even making it to the front page of the Yourhub section.  I continue to look for a personal connection each event I attend and I’m currently expanding that experience and creativity into other venues.

It’s my intent that reading my articles and seeing pictures of places (often closer than you think) that people will be motivated to get out and experience their world first hand. It is then, that you’ll have your own unique story to tell the world.

Have fun!
Phil