Jim Feldkamp

Welcome to my blog, fellow hiking enthusiast! My name is Jim Feldkamp. In my years of exploring new trails, I've gone through many injuries and challenges. To be honest, I usually end up enduring the trip with a sore back because aside from my personal belongings, I also bring my photography equipment. But I've learned my lesson. These days I only bring the necessities. If you tend to overpack, let me share with you some tips that will cost you less pain and weight on your next hiking trip. Image source: Express.co.uk Image source: Mnn.com  1. Go lightweight When it comes to your backpack, tent, jacket, clothes, and even toiletries, I suggest going lightweight with your choices. These days, many brands offer lighter alternatives to the usually bulky equipment we bring when we hike. But before buying anything that's marketed as "lightweight" or "ultralight", be sure to check the material. Check the quality of fabrics and metals...

Image source: thegreatestroadtrip.com I’m Jim Feldkamp and I love nature photography and going on adventures in the great outdoors. I feel like there’s no better backdrop for an adventure than our very own national parks. The U.S. is filled with countless national parks of all shapes and sizes, with some being more famous than others. It’s a shame though, when you think of all the beautiful parks that deserve as much attention as the big-name ones, but unfortunately don’t get as many visitors. On that note, here’s part one of “Jim Feldkamp’s Lesser-Known Yet Adventure-Filled National Parks.” Gates of the Arctic Probably because it’s more difficult to get to than the other national parks, the Gates of the Arctic, found in Alaska had only a little more than 11,000 visitors in 2017. This national park and preserve has everything adventurers might look for in a park and its mystique only adds to its appeal. Kobuk Valley Kobuk Valley had even less visitors than Gates ...

I’m Jim Feldkamp, nature lover and photographer. I’ve often been asked which is my favorite place to visit. Oftentimes, the name of Yellowstone Park comes up. While I don’t get to visit Yellowstone as often as I’d want to (maybe once every two years), I make the most of my time in the park. Image source: brushbucktours.com I was fortunate enough to go to Yellowstone in 2018. There were a number of hikers and photographers like myself who were all enthralled by the majesty the park presents at every turn. Being the first national park in existence, Yellowstone is still as precious as it ever was. Image source: actionhub.com Last year, newcomers to the park were mesmerized by the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States. Often described as a rainbow on the ground, Grand Prismatic Spring has always been a favorite of photographers old and new because of all the natural colors that envelop it from the bacterial mats. Of course, there’s Ol...

Beaches offer boundless opportunities for photographers – hobbyists and professionals alike – to explore the beauty, colors, and light of nature. Coupled with people, other nature elements such as sand and mountains, and sometimes even an urban backdrop, beaches can produce the best photos ever, says photographer Jim Feldkamp. Image source: Pixabay.com  Beaches can also pose a number of challenges, from the potential damage of water to the camera to unforeseen circumstances in huge, open spaces.  Here are some ocean photography tips to consider when shooting in this location. Play with colors : Colors have an important role in the mood of a given scene, and as a photographer you can play with colors to achieve your desired mood for the photo. Attain feelings of joys and optimism through warm hues or get a feeling of calm and even sadness with cold shades. Have a sense of timing : When shooting at the beach, the start and end of every day are the most ideal time...

Image source: tourismbonaire.com Those who’ve tried kayaking once or twice know just how challenging it can be. And they also know how much fan you can have once you get the hang of it. While there are other water sports that can bring you as close to nature and wildlife, there are a lot of things about kayaking that bring out the best in you. For starters, kayaking is quite a physical experience. It works out your entire upper body and your legs. It strengthens your core and keeps your muscles both tense and relaxed. Doing it on a regular basis can tone your muscles just as effective as any other workout. Image source: yellowstonetours.com Beyond the physical benefits, kayaking can also be quite a game-changer a far as your mental well-being is concerned. If you find yourself stressed-out because of work, kayaking, especially in a serene lake or calm river can rest your weary mind. If you’re kayaking with friends, the experience can make you forget all the wor...

Image source: theadventurejunkies.com Being excellent in nature photography takes a lot of time and practice. It doesn't matter which gear you use, as long as they work well and take pictures the way you like them. A beginner photographer’s gear doesn’t have to be expensive; your talent doesn’t rely on that anyway. The number one gear essential you need is the internet . Without it, learning and planning would be impossible. While you’re online, find the best way to shoot nature and visit the website of your desired location. You might chance upon a joiner photography trip, which can save you money. A sturdy backpack is also a requirement. It shall be your gear’s sacred home while you go around and scout. A weather-sealed DSLR camera is a must, as you would have little knowledge of how well the weather can go during your trip. Opt for a DSLR that’s fundamentally built to last even in harsh conditions, or guard the one you have using DIY kits. A sturdy tripod...

Image source: pexels.com There’s no better feeling than knowing you’re getting better and better at something you love to do. Photography is just like any other skill: The more you do it, the more you improve. Photographers may hit creative walls, but don’t let these obstacles hamper your improvement, but rather harness them to teach you new skills. Always bring a camera with you be it your trusty smartphone or a full DSLR kit. Shoot every day and learn new things about your camera or your photography style. Visit museums to give you a wider appreciation for art. Don’t limit your art consumption to one form, but try to expand it by looking at compositions done through different mediums. This can help with how you compose your photos or just give you a broader range of knowledge. Image source: pexels.com Read your DSLR’s manual to maximize your gadget use. Manuals may not be engaging to read, but they will for certain tell you a lot about what your camera c...