I am a third generation Floridian who loves to be outdoors. My dad taught me from a young age to enjoy the great outdoors and to marvel at nature. I enjoy hiking and kayaking with my camera. I am very much an amateur photographer, self-taught and have only been taking nature pictures for a few years. I use a Nikon 3200 with a 200mm lens which my husband bought me for Christmas last year. I am happiest when outdoors, communing with nature. It is where I decompress and feel closest to God. My favorite places to commune with wildlife are the abundant viewing places in Florida. Brevard County, which is where I live, offers a large assortment of wildlife viewing areas if you don't mind braving the heat. The Viera Wetlands offer an amazing variety of wildlife, from otters to eagles. Hiking the great Florida trail brings additional opportunities to view wildlife. Another favorite is kayaking in the many waterways of Florida. I live off a canal on the Banana River and kayak almost every weekend (weather permitting). Working at the Kennedy Space Center also offers great opportunities for taking wildlife photo's as it is located on a national wildlife habitat. I have worked there for 28 years.