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I am Nikonians

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) Interview

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2)


Keywords: wildlife, landscape, photography, nikonians, meadowlark2

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It is humbling being in the situation, as assigned by Ramon Palacios (jrp), to write an article on myself.  It is like being in front of the camera instead of looking through the viewfinder. I felt I had an appreciation for the angst I may had put members through in working on articles with them but I have found my own levels of anxiety increased more than I anticipated. Now I more fully I understand what members may have experienced with this exercise. But I love the introspection. If you get invited, go for it.

01

Bison Grazing Near Old Chief Mountain
Nikon D800, Tamron 150-600mm, @ f/22, 1/160s, ISO 1100
Click for an enlargement

 

It is no mystery with my father’s interest in travel, landscape and wildlife photography and with my mother who made photographic histories for each of her 4 children that I was exposed to a high level of appreciation for the value of photography early in life.  Now retired from working as an Occupational Therapist I have a great time experimenting and learning as I have picked up their passion and have been thrilled with the Digital Age equipment.  

02

The Best Bites Require a Reach - Baltimore Oriole
Nikon D800, 200-500mm Nikkor @ f/7.1, 1/500s, ISO 640, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

My greatest fascination is wildlife photography followed by macro, landscape and travel images.  There are so many areas yet to explore having recently found great entertainment with Lensbaby images and hoping to explore some waterfalls. Catching the Northern Lights, the Milky Way, and lightning storms are also at the forefront of my list.  

03

Mother and Cub Black Bear Enjoying the Dandelions
Nikon D800, Nikon 80-400 mm f/4.5-5.6, 1/320 sec at f5.3, ISO 560
Click for an enlargement

 

Living in Lethbridge which is in southern Alberta, Canada the spectrum of opportunities for photography is wide. To mention a few, Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park are almost part of my back yard. 

Access to high country with the Milk River ridge and undulating foothills, rolling grass lands, rich farmland, small lakes and ponds is in the immediate area.  Banff National Park and Kananaskis Provincial Park take a little more travel and arranging to stay a few days. Many species of birds migrate through this area pausing to rest in the most unexpected places-even in a city park with a small lake 2 blocks from my home.  Our river valley has wetlands and wilderness parks complete with rattle snakes, painted turtles, deer, porcupines, beaver and Baltimore Orioles to name a few.

04

Upper Antelope Canyon – Arizona
D800, Nikon 16-35mm @ f/11, 2s, ISO 400. On tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

I have had Nikon DSLR’s for a few decades but it was with the purchase of a D800 that had me scouring the web searching for resources to help me gain a more intimate understanding of photography and my equipment that led me to find Nikonians.  I signed on with basic membership and found that I was benefiting globally with my knowledge so took the plunge to buy a silver membership shortly after.  I recall a number of occasions when I was stuck with a problem and fellow Nikonians helped me solve puzzles.  I have also benefited from the advice offered on some of my images although I allowed my pride to take a hit.  Putting that behind me, my images have done nothing but improve and I came to appreciate the help and gratefully anticipate more in the future.  

05

Long Eared Owl Resting in the Shade
Nikon D800, Tamron 150-600mm @ f/7.1, 1/125s, ISO 1000, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

Seeing how other members got their great shots using a tripod has been a wonderful lesson for me.  Learning about exposure and post processing have contributed greatly to the quality of my photography as well. Inspirational images made by so many members have spurred my interest and fed the flames of what has become a magnificent obsession.  I prize the acquaintances and friendships I have made and look forward to seeing what they post and how they are doing.  

06

Peyto Lake – Banff Alberta
Nikon D800, Nikon 16-35mm @ f/22, 1/50s, ISO 100, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

I have discovered useful strategies some of which may work for you. One of the most valuable is the use of Manual Mode paired with Auto ISO when taking shots of wildlife.  To do this you need to become familiar with the power of your settings.  Learn how fast a shutter speed you need to freeze animal motion.  Understand what aperture will give you a defined shot of the creature while creating a pleasing background then let Auto ISO fill in the gaps of changing light conditions.  ISO alterations will automatically allow for clouds to come and go, ebbing light at sunset or intensifying light as day dawns so you will be covered. Practice bumping up the number of clicks you need on the dial to reach the shutter speed you want without taking your eye from the viewfinder. This will help you really work your subject and capture aspects of behavior you may not have anticipated.

07

Sparkling Strands of Crystal Beads - Moose
Nikon D800, Nikon 200-500mm @ f/16m 1/320s, ISO 1500, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

Following my passion has led me into some riveting experiences. Walking along the shore of a shallow alpine lake early one morning I chanced to look behind me and found that a large bull moose was strolling about 100 feet behind me -his eyes were on me and he was casually following. I took 3 quick shots and melted into the forest happy to have it quickly envelope me.  The moose continued to stroll along the shore but appeared curious and mystified that I had disappeared.  After a short distance he jumped up in the air and turned around as if on twinkle toes to come back looking carefully as he went.  He then took a wildlife trail through the woods and disappeared.  My heart slowly returned to a regular beat.

08

Fresh Cold Drink on a Hot Day – Mountain Goat Nanny
Nikon D800, Tamron 150-600mm @ f/7.1, 1/250s, ISO 640, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

My point is to use caution and wisdom being ready to react appropriately when situations arise.  As vigilant as one can be, wildlife can still surprise you.  You must be prepared for every contingency using strategies and equipment to keep you are safe in the wilderness. 

09

Bright Hope After a Wildfire – Oxeye Daisies
Nikon D800, Nikon 24-70mm @ f/13, 1/800s, ISO 250, on tripod
Click for an enlargement

 

The other aspect of wildlife silently appearing is one of wonder.  I feel it is such a gift to suddenly spot an animal in an area to which I have returned where minutes before there was nothing.  As if by magic to be treated to a perched snowy owl staring at me is a wonder. Having a moose wander into a landscape shot I have just framed is a joy. There are no announcements, no bugles blowing or drum roll; all of a sudden you are given an opportunity to observe and possibly even to photograph majesty. It is the making of 

euphoria!

You may want to visit Marsha's profile.

Originally written on September 5, 2018

Last updated on September 11, 2018

Marsha Edmunds Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2)

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Lethbridge, Canada
Team, 13831 posts

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25 comments

Carol Freshley (PhotoSpydie) on September 30, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the 2017 fundraising campaign Ribbon awarded for her generous donation to the 2019 Fundraising Campaign

How wonderful to read all about you this time! You have been playing such an important and much appreciated role at Nikonians. You may have felt some angst in writing about yourself but I found you to be so encouraging and patient when you asked me to complete a profile that you need not worry that you put others through any stress. It was good to read about your passion for photography. Thank you.

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 14, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Larry S. and Larry C.- I so appreciate your kind comments especially when I reflect on the work that each of you produces. Thank you!

Larry CdeBaca (elcee) on September 13, 2018

Fellow Ribbon awarded for his sharing knowledge contributions to the community in addition to his words of encouragement for further advancement Awarded for his in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.

Well written, Marsha. Your love of nature shines through your great photography!

Larry S (larsch01) on September 10, 2018

Marsha, Such a wonderful article and gorgeous images. Thank you for sharing your experiences and thought processes that you use in taking your images. Larry

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 10, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Kip and Mark, You have been very generous in your comments and I so enjoy seeing the work each of you does. There sure is power in this site with all that members offer each other.

Mark Roberts (mrob) on September 9, 2018

Ribbon awarded for his support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017

Great article Marsha! Thank you so much for sharing with us, along with all of the work you do for the Nikonian site. Your photography and articles are amazing.

User on September 8, 2018

Marsha ! Thanks so much for accepting the request to write this article on one,s self. Letting us into your personal life and the journey you have traveled to get where you are today in your photography. Its not easy to write an article on one,s self but you have done it with class. Your diversity in the images you capture really shows off your skills . Its always a pleasure viewing your postings ,your are an inspiration to all here on Nikonians long time members and new , we are very lucky to have you. What I really like about you Marsha is you genuinely accept suggestions from viewers on how to improve one,s shot and implemented them in your future captures critiquing is good as others see what the shooter doesn't see or misses , you are a quick learner. Keep on shooting Marsha cant wait for the next posting. kip

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 8, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Dale and Russ, I always look forward to your posts for the wondrous images I know I am about to enjoy and learn from. I so appreciate your kind comments.

Russell Whittemore (rosewood_ltd) on September 7, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for his support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Donor Ribbon awarded for his generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for his generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for his in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas. Ribbon awarded as a member who has gone beyond technical knowledge to show mastery of the art a

Marsha, all I can say is it's about time! If there is anyone among the talented members who you have profiled to date, no one else can be said to more embody the phrase "I am Nikonians" than you. Your kind demeanor and unfailing words of praise and encouragement to other members set an example that we would all benefit from emulating. Oh, and by the way, crackin' good images of your own as well! You inspire us to all be better and do better both with your words and by photographic example. Well done, well deserved!

Dale Maas (marnigirl) on September 7, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for his generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Donor Ribbon awarded for his very generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for his generous contribution to the 2018 fundraising campaign

Marsha you are a treasure to the Nikonians Website. Your expertise coupled with your nice comments on the work of others shows what a wonderful person you are. I always enjoy looking at your images, I do not always comment, but rest assured that I have looked and appreciated. Of course, as I have told you, I still want to see a Grizzly ;-). Take Care, keep clicking, and know that you are a valuable and intricate part of this wonderful site. Your Friend, Dale

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 6, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Kathy, Donna, and Sarah-So fun to hear from you too! Smiles reading your words. Each of you I so enjoy. Thanks for the warmth of your remarks.

Sarah Boser (Sarah9) on September 6, 2018

Marsha, thanks for writing this article. I learned some new things, but best of all, I learned more about you. Your images are magnificent, and you are an inspiration.

Donna Knodle (dgknodle) on September 6, 2018

Ribbon awarded for her very generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017

Loved the article, Marsha. You have become such a master of bringing us the beautiful scenery around you. It takes a lot to really "see" with your camera, but you have hit the mark with your skills which came from lots of practice and diligence to get it right. Your wildlife shots are just wonderful and I know you have a smile on your face when you get that magic shot! Keep 'em coming.

Kathy Cavallaro (Cavy2) on September 6, 2018

Awarded for her continuing willingness to keep on learning and to share her knowledge with others in the Nikonians spirit Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas. Ribbon awarded as a member who has gone beyond technical knowledge to show mastery of the art a

Well written article, (which I expected no less). Thank you for sharing your history, dynamic images and techniques. I knew from the moment you contacted me for an interview I was dealing with a kind, person of integrity. Always willing to share your wide berth of knowledge in a most helpful manner. I look forward to one day shooting with you and Bonnie.

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 6, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Fred, Ernesto and Bonnie it has been a privelege and so pleasant to come to know you and to enjoy sharing photography and comments back and forth. How meaningful your comments are to me. Thank you.

Bonnie Christensen (BChrisRad) on September 6, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her most generous contribution to the 2017 campaign Ribbon awarded for her most generous support to the 2018 fundraising campaign Awarded for high level of knowledge and skill in various areas.

Agree with all of the accolades already stated, Marsha. I cannot believe you have not been featured. Thanks for doing it. You do deserve the recognition for your great photos and contribution to Nikonians. I enjoyed reading more about you and seeing some more of your amazing photos. Glad you shared your moose story!!

Ernesto Santos (esantos) on September 6, 2018

Nikonians Resources Writer. Recognized for his outstanding reviews on printers and printing articles. Awarded for his high level of expertise in various areas, including Landscape Photography Awarded for his extraordinary accomplishments in Landscape Photography. His work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian. Winner of the Best of Nikonians Images 2018 Annual Photo Contest

Marsha, if even for only a short while the spotlight is on you, and what a great opportunity to learn more about you and to see some of your great images showcased in one article. Your talent behind the camera is immeasurable and might I say that you are such a gracious, helpful, and friendly person as well. And isn't that what Nikonians is all about. Cheers!

Fred Laberge (labtrout) on September 6, 2018

Fellow Ribbon awarded for his constant sharing of his skills and continuous comments of encouragement in the Nikonians spirit.

Finally! Some well-deserved recognition for an outstanding photographer and one of the nicest Nikonians I’ve gotten to know. It’s always a treat to see your work and read your comments, Marsha.

Marsha Edmunds (meadowlark2) on September 5, 2018

Donor Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Fellow Ribbon awarded for her continuous encouragement and meaningful comments in the spirit of Nikonians. Donor Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for her generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Awarded for her in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas.  Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Bo, Tom, Candi, Dave, Gavin, John please take this as an individual comment to you. I am very appreciative of your remarks and the friendship with you!

John D. Roach (jdroach) on September 5, 2018

Fellow Ribbon awarded. John exhibits true Nikonian spirit by frequently posting images and requesting comments and critique, which he graciously accepts. He is an inspiration to all of us through constant improvement in his own work, keen observations and excellent commentary on images posted by others. Donor Ribbon awarded for his very generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2014 Donor Ribbon awarded for his most generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded for his generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017 Ribbon awarded for his generous contribution to the 2019 Fundraising campaign Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest

Wonderful article as well as images. Thank you for all you do for Nikonians and being part of our community. As a member for nearing 10 years, I think I have see many folks that have inspired me and you are among those who most inspire. Keep up the great work.

Gavin Duffy (Gaduf) on September 5, 2018

Hi Marsha, Excellent article,a privilege to get an insight into your personal love of photography,some of your superb pictures and and the locations that are close to you. Thank you for sharing with your fellow Nikonians. Gavin

David Summers (dm1dave) on September 5, 2018

Awarded for high level knowledge and skills in various areas, most notably in Wildlife and Landscape Writer Ribbon awarded for his excellent article contributions to the Nikonians community Donor Ribbon awarded for his very generous support to the Fundraising Campaign 2015 Ribbon awarded as a member who has gone beyond technical knowledge to show mastery of the art a

Outstanding! Thank you for sharing you experience and you great photography with us.

Candi Foltz (CandisCamera) on September 5, 2018

Ribbon awarded for her support to the Fundraising Campaign 2017

Thank you Marsha for giving us this enlightening glimpse into your life and "magnificent obsession" with photography! You are blessed to live near some of the most breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife in the world. I always look forward to your posts, whatever the subject. Keep up the good work!

Tom Jacob (sevendayimages) on September 5, 2018

Awarded for his continuous knowledge and images sharing with community members Awarded for his win at the Best of Nikonians 2016 Photo Contest Awarded for his in-depth knowledge and high level of skill in several areas. Awarded for winning in The Best of Nikonians 2019 Photo Contest 
Winner of the Best of Nikonians Photo Contest 2020
This member has gone beyond technical knowledge to show mastery of the art and science of photo Winner in the Best of Nikonians Photo Contest 2021

I was waiting for this Marsha :) So good to know a bit of you, and your thinking behind your wonderful photography. Really look forward to your posts always, and learn from them (although when it's involving Moose, I will let you do the picture taking) Thanks for sharing this and what an excellent series of images to go with it my friend. Cheers.

Bo Stahlbrandt (bgs) on September 5, 2018

bgs is one of the two co-founders of Nikonians, with in-depth knowledge in several areas Awarded for his valuable Nikon product reviews at the Resources

Thanks for sharing some of your work with us Marsha, great!

G