THE BIGGER THE WHY, the smaller the HOW. If you want to be a better photographer, build confidence at any level, and capture images of excellence, then take time to shoot the things you love and are passionate about. Shoot what excites you and use that energy to break through your own limitations, reach new levels of creativity within, and ultimately electrify your images.

MOOREA, FRENCH POLYNESIA - “Off to the left!” announces Dr. Poole as we all turned our heads in unison to see the pod of spinner dolphins off the port side of our boat. Dancing and playing as if for our viewing pleasure, sometimes spinning in the air — as their name suggests; these magnificent mammals cavort around, oblivious to global warming, economic slowdowns and national debt issues.

DUOYISHU, CHINA — This remote farming community is still blanketed in darkness when the alarm sounds and tells me it’s time to prepare for another early-morning shoot on this photographic pilgrimage.

DEGE, CHINA — “Shimmering like crystal in a mid-day sun; blinding snows melt and rivers run.” These could be the words used on a glossy brochure to promote any number of European or North American ski destinations.