Robert Brown (RP62) Interview

RP goes by the nickname referring to his given names of Robert Paul as there are approximately 15 Robert Browns at the company where he works. He joined Nikonians in April 2016.  “…I live in Gilbert Arizona, just east of Phoenix. My profession has been aircraft maintenance and engineering over the last 40 years.

Arizona has numerous photographic opportunities – like the more well-known Grand Canyon and Painted Desert; but there are also hundreds of lesser known but no less beautiful spots. Arizona is unique geologically and has widely varying terrain. There are also many interesting archeological sites. My wife and I feel lucky to live here and we have fallen in love with the Sonoran Desert.”

RP enjoys mainly the natural world with landscapes, macro photography and shooting flora and fauna.

Of Nikonians he recalls, “I visited several photography sites when trying to decide on my next camera. Even before deciding, I found myself continually returning to Nikonians because it is a community and I felt more at home here. It’s a great group – a lot of varied experience and willingness to share. Everyone seems to have a good and supportive attitude.”

“I enjoy looking at the pictures others have taken and the associated comments made. It helps me to see what is possible and inspires me to try and improve my own techniques. Plus, it gives a peek into different parts of the world as seen through the eyes of those with similar interests.”

By way of advice RP shares, “If you keep reading Darrel Young’s NikoniansPress books you will eventually figure out how to use your camera.”

In reflecting on an outstanding experience associated with photography RP relates, “A couple of years ago my wife and I had ridden motorcycles up to Canyon de Chelly National Monument in northeast Arizona to take some pictures.  Canyon de Chelly is not as well-known as some of the other Arizona canyons and it’s not really on the way to.… well, anywhere, so needless to say, it’s not very crowded.  In fact, when we were there, we saw no one else at any of the upper rim overlooks except one. As I was getting myself located for a shot I heard some voices not far away.  It was a Navajo grandfather with his two grandsons.  The elder was pointing out various rock formations and telling the boys what they were called in Navajo, explaining the things that happened there and the significance of the names.  I became so absorbed in the stories; I forgot what I was doing and just sat and listened.  Even more amazing to me was the fact that the two boys were actually interested and were glued to every word, as was I. Not once did a cell phone come out.” 

Most members will be familiar with his shots from the desert including unique and fascinating views of cactus.  Once again, welcome RP to the  Nikonians community and we applaud you for your images and your generosity in sharing them.  Looking forward to seeing many more posts in the future.

More articles by Marsha Edmunds

Tom Jacob

Thomas Sprunger

Lela Bouse-McCracken

More...

More articles that might interest you

Laura Knight

Russ Glindmeier

Peter Wallin

Treasured Lands – A Journey Through America’s National Parks