The photo she was admiring was taken right behind [Clyde Butcher's] gallery.
Have you ever heard of the photographer Clyde Butcher? He is an American photography icon. Butcher, who was born in 1942, is known for his black and white photography, specifically from the wetlands of Florida. Beyond his numerous photography achievements and awards, Butcher has a deep passion for environmental conservation.
I once heard Butcher tell a story about how a woman came in to his gallery. She marveled over one of his photos in the gallery and asked where the best place was to get photos like that. Butcher revealed that the photo she was admiring was taken right behind his gallery, just feet from where they were standing. That story always stuck with me. So, when I had the opportunity to visit Clyde Butcher’s gallery (fittingly in the middle of Big Cypress National Preserve), I made sure to bring my camera, and checkout behind the gallery.
In the back of the gallery, there is a small trail that winds back into deep vegetation. I was only a few steps down that trail when I realized what Butcher was talking about. The thick vegetation surrounds you. Your line of sight is limited to less than 10 feet at a time. Since the ground is swampy and wet, everything is reflected, creating a wild illusion. I took a lot of photos that day, including the one above. If you are ever in south Florida and have the chance, I would highly recommend visiting.
I enjoy this photo for a couple reasons. I look up to Clyde for his artist-conservationist achievements. I also enjoy this photo because the depth of field gives you an idea of how thick and impassible this environment is.
Did you know? Big Cypress National Preserve is larger than the state of Rhode Island.
Did you know? Clyde Butcher’s Big Cypress Gallery offers guided eco-swamp tours!
Did you know? Clyde Butcher used to shoot color photography. He switched to black and white photography after the tragic loss of his son, who was killed when a drunk driver hit the car that he was a passenger in.
Big Cypress National Preserve is larger than Rhode Island
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[…] National Preserve in Florida. I took this at Clyde Butcher’s Photography Gallery (Click here to check out more from this recent trip). So, what is a “lubber”? “Lubber” is an old English word […]
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