A photographer's journey to capture nature's beauty has unexpectedly brought national attention to a local treasure. But is it just about the stunning visuals, or is there a deeper message? The story behind the lens is as captivating as the images themselves.
News 8's Ken Kolker introduces us to his long-time friend and renowned photographer, Steve Jessmore, who has dedicated his lens to Reeds Lake, a picturesque spot nestled among million-dollar homes. Over four years, Jessmore has captured the lake's essence, focusing on its vibrant bird life.
The project began with a simple walk on the west side of the lake, where Jessmore discovered a boardwalk that sparked his imagination. He envisioned a story of accessibility and natural wonder, a place where anyone could experience the beauty of nature. 'This is tremendously accessible... It's flat, you can come with a wheelchair, a baby carriage,' he enthused.
Jessmore's passion for photography started as a newspaper photographer, but when the industry declined, he turned to freelancing and university work. However, the COVID-19 pandemic halted his freelance assignments, prompting a new direction: nature photography.
This shift led to a remarkable encounter on the Torch River, where Jessmore set out to capture ducks in flight at dawn. Determined to get the shot, he recalls, 'Game on. This is what my purpose is.' His persistence paid off, earning him top honors in the National Audubon Society's photo contest in 2021.
This success brought him to Reeds Lake, where he has since taken over half a million photographs. His work showcases the lake's diverse bird species, from great-horned owls and hawks to the graceful tundra swans. But Jessmore's approach is unique; he doesn't interfere with nature, preferring to 'sit and wait and watch' and let the birds 'do their thing.'
His philosophy is evident in his trademark, 'Birds Doing Stuff,' a testament to his respect for the natural world. And his work has a higher purpose, aligned with the Audubon project's mission: to inspire local appreciation for nature, leading to global conservation.
As the sun rose on the lake, Jessmore pointed out bald eagles, a testament to the wild beauty within the city. His journey from newspaper photographer to nature's storyteller is a captivating tale of resilience and artistic evolution. And it leaves us with a question: Can photography truly inspire environmental action, or is it just a beautiful distraction?
What do you think? Is there more to these images than meets the eye?
