Posted by Brad Hill on January 7, 2013 at 10:56 AM
Sayonara!
Hey all...this is my first post in years as "just" an NPN member. Meaning - I have resigned as one of the moderators in the NPN Wildlife Forum (and Gallery).
While it's always more sensational and (for some) fun to come up with a drama-filled story about what's behind any departure from a position, the truth is far more bland and positive. After putting food on the table, my primary motivation as a full-time professional photographer has always been conservation. Like everyone, I only have so much time for pro bono work (it may come as news to many of you that being moderator on NPN does NOT command a 6-figure salary - it's a voluntary position). And, because I have more and more commitments to conservation causes every day, something had to give. Which means I'm officially gone and at the same time burdening Lon and Vincent with more of the share of the work in this gallery! Sorry guys!
I've really enjoyed my time moderating in this gallery - it was a very good use of my time. And I learned a lot. I hope others did too.
Oh, and BTW, I not about to quit posting images or commenting on those of others in the gallery or forum. And, odds are, those posts and comments will be as long-winded as usual! So, from most folks' perspective very little will change...
Anyway...cheers all and I wish everyone a great 2013 - both behind your camera (and computer) and in life!
A great big "THANK YOU", Brad.
Your knowledge and insight have been inspirational to many, if not all, here at NPN.
Good Luck and good light always.
Neil
Posted by Mike Ramy on January 7, 2013 at 12:33 PM
Brad,
Your passion for photography and work ethic are the two traits you possess that stand out most to me of all your qualities. You will be missed as a moderator and I am glad you will still be posting your inspirational photos as well as critiquing and educating the rest of us as usual. I also want to thank you for the high standard you set for your tours and tour brochures, It really helped and motivated me with my first tour posting. Thanks again and best wishes with your future endeavors.
Mike Ramy
Well, I have to admit feeling a tinge of disappointment when I read this today, but am certainly happy to hear you intend to continue being involved on NPN as a member.
I wanted to express my appreciation once again for all your encouragement, tips and suggestions to myself and my kids over the past two years that we've been involved here. Your photography is inspirational on so many levels...first and foremost as "natural art," but also as an example of the highest standards of technical and processing excellence. And your commentary is always way above and beyond, allowing the reader a more thoughtful appreciation of the image and stretching us toward better (and more informed) decisions in the field and behind the computer. But above all is the underlying passion that is the motivation you pointed to in stepping back: your exemplary commitment to proactive and effective conservation of the natural world.
You have certainly served not only as an effective moderator of the forum and gallery, but much more as a emissary of what nature photography can be...and an example of what nature photographERS should be about. While we will miss you in the formal NPN role, I know that larger and more crucial role will continue as long as you hold a camera and long lens in your hands.
Thank you again, and all the best for 2013 and all your photographic ventures.
With appreciation...
Posted by Brian Gatlin on January 7, 2013 at 4:24 PM
Brad, I don't post in wildlife, but I've read many of your comments and messages. Besides your valuable critiques, I really appreciate the extent to which you have been a very strong voice for ethical wildlife photography. Thanks!
Posted by Jim Hackley on January 7, 2013 at 5:29 PM
Brad, I just wanted to thank you for all your in depth comments and for taking the time to answer my questions. Your comments gave me many items to think about and to practice in the field which helped me to become a better wildlife photographer. It is much appreciated.
Best of luck in your conservation efforts.
Jim
Posted by Jim DeWitt on January 7, 2013 at 5:41 PM
Thanks for the hard work and thoughtful comments, Brad. Conservation matters, more all the time, so I applaud your shift in time budgeting. Great photo to go with the announcement, too. But I will hold you to your words on keeping active at NPN.
Posted by Peter Cross on January 7, 2013 at 10:44 PM
I really can't add anything that hasn't been said by others above. But, to echo their setiments, I must say you have been an inspiration and model for any photographer to follow for ethical standards, photo excellence, and willingness to share your considerable knowledge. I really appreciate the time you spent as moderator and I sincerely hope that you do continue your presence by posting your wonderful images and comments. Thanks much!
Dear Brad, once again, we hate to see you go! Of course I respect your decision and would like to thank you for a great few years co-moderating the Wildlife Gallery with you, it was a pleasure working with you. Moreover, you were a true asset to this Gallery and many people, including myself, have learnt a lot from Brad Hill. Your inspiring images and insightful comments and truly helpful critiques will be missed. I wish you all the best with your photography career and conservation work and hope we will see you around in the NPN Wildlife Gallery in the future.
Cheers,
Vincent
Posted by Luke Ormand on January 8, 2013 at 11:11 AM
I'll add to the list and give you a big THANKS for all your help, time, patience etc. in helping out people (myself included) in this forum. Vincent and Lon are quite talented - but no one can fill your long-winded shoes (I mean that in the best way possible)
Posted by Jim Erhardt on January 8, 2013 at 11:51 AM
Brad, on behalf of the entire NPN membership, our sincere thanks for your time and effort. We continue to look forward to seeing your photos and best wishes to you in all of your endeavors!
I've learned so much from you, Brad, and will never forget how diplomatic and gentle you were in critiquing the very first (and very mediocre) image I posted on the Fauna forum several years ago. Thank you for not discouraging me! Your critiques of images are always thoughtful, detailed, and full of great advice.
You were the moderator for as long as I can remember. How long did you hold the position, out of curiosity?
All the best Brad, I haven't been an active contributor on NPN but whenever I come and check out what has been happening, I always came to the wildlife side of things and certainly always enjoyed your photos as well as the constructive comments you offered to all.
Discussion
13 repliesHey all...this is my first post in years as "just" an NPN member. Meaning - I have resigned as one of the moderators in the NPN Wildlife Forum (and Gallery).
While it's always more sensational and (for some) fun to come up with a drama-filled story about what's behind any departure from a position, the truth is far more bland and positive. After putting food on the table, my primary motivation as a full-time professional photographer has always been conservation. Like everyone, I only have so much time for pro bono work (it may come as news to many of you that being moderator on NPN does NOT command a 6-figure salary - it's a voluntary position). And, because I have more and more commitments to conservation causes every day, something had to give. Which means I'm officially gone and at the same time burdening Lon and Vincent with more of the share of the work in this gallery! Sorry guys!
I've really enjoyed my time moderating in this gallery - it was a very good use of my time. And I learned a lot. I hope others did too.
Oh, and BTW, I not about to quit posting images or commenting on those of others in the gallery or forum. And, odds are, those posts and comments will be as long-winded as usual!
Anyway...cheers all and I wish everyone a great 2013 - both behind your camera (and computer) and in life!
Brad
Your knowledge and insight have been inspirational to many, if not all, here at NPN.
Good Luck and good light always.
Neil
Your passion for photography and work ethic are the two traits you possess that stand out most to me of all your qualities. You will be missed as a moderator and I am glad you will still be posting your inspirational photos as well as critiquing and educating the rest of us as usual. I also want to thank you for the high standard you set for your tours and tour brochures, It really helped and motivated me with my first tour posting. Thanks again and best wishes with your future endeavors.
Mike Ramy
Well, I have to admit feeling a tinge of disappointment when I read this today, but am certainly happy to hear you intend to continue being involved on NPN as a member.
I wanted to express my appreciation once again for all your encouragement, tips and suggestions to myself and my kids over the past two years that we've been involved here. Your photography is inspirational on so many levels...first and foremost as "natural art," but also as an example of the highest standards of technical and processing excellence. And your commentary is always way above and beyond, allowing the reader a more thoughtful appreciation of the image and stretching us toward better (and more informed) decisions in the field and behind the computer. But above all is the underlying passion that is the motivation you pointed to in stepping back: your exemplary commitment to proactive and effective conservation of the natural world.
You have certainly served not only as an effective moderator of the forum and gallery, but much more as a emissary of what nature photography can be...and an example of what nature photographERS should be about. While we will miss you in the formal NPN role, I know that larger and more crucial role will continue as long as you hold a camera and long lens in your hands.
Thank you again, and all the best for 2013 and all your photographic ventures.
With appreciation...
Best of luck in your conservation efforts.
Jim
Cheers,
Vincent
You were the moderator for as long as I can remember. How long did you hold the position, out of curiosity?
See you around the bears
André