Historically, photography has always been seen as quite elitist because of the camera equipment that’s involved and the amount of travelling that’s involved. It’s often out of reach of many people’s financial ability. Just knowing that you can make things on your doorstep is really encouraging to all of those budding photographers out there.
Anna Morgan
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In this episode, I speak with Anna Morgan, a nature photographer, former veterinarian, and scientist. Anna has a spiritual and philosophical approach to her photography, which gives great depth and meaning to her work. You’ll see what I mean when you look at her photos!
We talk about:
- Anna Morgan’s scientific background and how it has affected her photography
- Tips for busy photographers who want to improve their skills consistently
- Why photography is no longer just a luxurious hobby
& much more!
Anna Morgan’s musings on camera gear, nature photography, and philosophy will inspire you to spend more time shooting outdoors. This is an uplifting episode that is bound to encourage anyone who’s experiencing creative block or feels stuck in life.
Here is a preview of our conversation with Anna Morgan.
Q: You went through many changes in the span of a year. What was that like for you?
Anna Morgan: It was quite a crazy few months, but it made sense at the time. We had spoken about moving overseas, and we particularly liked the Pacific Northwest.
In some ways, it seemed counterintuitive to move here with a young baby. It was actually a perfect time because it meant we could meet new people. It seemed like a good career break opportunity to make the move. Yes, it was difficult not having family around and so on, but it was also a very energising time. We’re very comfortable here now, so it was definitely worth it.
Q: When was the last time you took a photo that you were satisfied with?
Anna Morgan: My family just spent a week at the end of summer in the Rocky Mountains in Kootenay National Park, which is a little park in BC. It’s part of the Rockies. It’s not so heavily trafficked as some of the better known national parks in Canada.
We spent a lot of time hiking. Nothing too strenuous. I found myself photographing some of the end-of-summer wildflowers and the rivers. I find rivers just fascinating to watch and observe in alpine areas because they’re glacial and really refreshing. They really invigorate you in so many ways. Not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well. I had a few images from that trip that have spoken to me quite deeply.
Q: Because of your scientific background, you go beyond photographing nature. You also observe and analyse environments. Other than making you more observant and analytical, how has your background affected your photography?
Anna Morgan: There’s two parts to my academic background. One is the veterinary side of things. That is highly scientific, very analytical, and relies a lot on observation. In addition to those things, it also makes you quite methodical in your approach to situations. I found that that’s really helped me.
The other side of my academic work has been my Master’s. On paper, it looks pretty scientific – conservation medicine. It relates to where human health, animal health and ecological health all intersect. Actually, the thesis part led me in a completely different direction that I hadn’t anticipated when I first enrolled.
I examined the role of photographers in conservation. The whole process led me to explore feminist theory, philosophy, and a huge range of topics that wouldn’t naturally come together. That’s really changed the way that I do my observation. Rather than jumping to supposedly logical conclusions, I’ve started exploring the spiritual and philosophical aspects much more of how I interact with my environment, and how we as a species interact with our environments as well. It’s been quite a deep and meaningful journey.
I think that journey is ongoing and I don’t think I’ve come to the end of that exploration yet. It’s certainly been hugely influential to my photography practices.
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