The profound connection to the environment and wildlife enjoyed by many nature photographers is not accessible to us all equally. Whether you or someone you want to invite on nature photography outings uses a wheelchair, has limited use of their hands, or is weak and has tremors, this informative and interactive event is for you. We will explore artistic techniques using Assistive Technology (AT) for smart phones and digital cameras in order to promote accessible photography for everyone. You are encouraged to reach out to event leaders in advance for specific information about your disability or mobility needs, and how to acquire AT. After a presentation and demonstration of homemade and purchased AT photography devices, we will break to photograph nature around our homes using pre-selected devices, followed by sharing our experiences and discussion about finding accessible nature photography sites. Watch recorded event here: Local Nature: Photography with Assistive Technology, December 3, 2020
Leaders
- Rick and Jeree' Waller, Founders, HeartWork Accessible Nature Photography
- With Tony Sauer, former Director of the California Department of Rehabilitation
Rick and Jeree' have 30 years of professional photography and teaching experience. Jeree’ is also one of the founders of FREED Center for Independent Living, and One Source Empowering Caregivers in Grass Valley, CA. Their background includes working with people of all ages and disabilities who want to get out into nature to enjoy wildlife photography. The Wallers currently travel throughout much of the United States and Canada offering Accessible Photography Outings for Veterans, cancer survivors, the hearing-impaired, small family groups, and others. https://heartworkphotography.
Mr. Sauer was the Director of the California Department of Rehabilitation for five years, serving nearly 115,000 people with disabilities annually. He served as Executive Director of the Nevada-Sierra Regional In-Home Services Public Authority, as Deputy Director of External Affairs for the California Department of Rehabilitation, and as Executive Director, FREED, Center for Independent Living. He holds a Master’s Degree in Management & Disability Services from the University of San Francisco. He is now retired, and enjoys the occasional opportunity to offer his expertise and life experience to those who ask.
Logistics
This event is open to all ages, and is for anyone with a disability or interest in nature photography access for all.
Before the event, please try using your camera or smart phone in advance, and explore the "local nature" photography options in or near your home, such as your back or front yard, just down the street, on your porch, or through your window.
Please contact the leaders by email about AT suggestions and/or explore camera devices on the internet via Centers for Independent Living, then have your camera and AT ready when we meet.
Also please create a Google account, as a Google Drive folder link will be sent to you upon registration, and this is where we will upload the photos we capture during the event.
Lastly, be prepared to share any information you have about good accessible trails and sites for nature photography.
Zoom meeting details will be sent to you upon registration. If you have not used Zoom before, please allow time to download and install the application before the event. Please log-in a few minutes early, as it may take more than one attempt if servers are busy.
How to Sign Up
Register at the link below. Each participant should register separately. Registration is free.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.