Welcome to

BY MORGAN HAMILTON

Are you familiar with Ansel Adams? He is a legendary figure in the world of photography and the consummate photographer of wilderness areas. He was born in 1902, and he spent his childhood steeped in the natural beauty of the area where he grew up. It was there that his photographic vision was born.

Ansel Adams first visited Yosemite at the age of 14, and this experience defined his lifelong vocation. He took a custodial job at the Sierra Club Lodge in Yosemite Park when he was 17 because he wanted to live and work in the visual treasure chest of nature that he loved so much.

He is a lover of capturing the tiny details of nature to perfection, but he is best known for his majestic sweeping views of Yosemite National Park. Ansel Adams was especially gifted in the art of bringing the moment of a just-blooming flower or a leaf floating on still water to life. He captured the attention and appreciation of hundreds of thousands of Americans through the beauty of the wilderness long before environmental awareness became a coined phrase.

He was so passionate about protecting and preserving the beauty of nature that he was willing and enthusiastic to spread his message in political circles, lobbying for the successful creation of new National Parks. He was a pioneer in environmental protection before the National Parks were established. Ansel Adams spearheaded many projects for the fledgling Sierra Club as an environmental activist.

Ansel Adams was given a position on the Sierra Club’s Board of Directors at the age of 32 because of his passion and success in educating the public through his photography and political campaigns. However, position and influence were not his ambition. Nature was his passion and his desire to bring the beauty of nature to everyone through the lens of his camera.

The works of Ansel Adams remain prominent in the world of photography, although he left this world in 1984. Everyone can still enjoy his wonderful pictures today. His photographs are featured on books and posters that are readily available. You can also check online art sites for examples of this legendary photographer’s work if you want to experience the beauty of nature in an alternative way.

Morgan Hamilton writes for the Online Arts Info site and offers expert advice and tips on all aspects concerning Ansel Adams.