I'm a total nature junkie, forever searching the hills, canyons and deserts of the American Southwest for scenic vistas, fall color and especially wildflowers. (If you happen to see a very tall woman sporting a sequin visor, lurking by the side of a California mountain road aiming a camera at something blooming, that just might be me. Feel free to say "Hi" if you'd like!)

Macro photography is a particular passion and Georgia O'Keeffe is a huge influence. It's amazing what sensual, abstract and geometrically intriguing patterns one can find in natural things whether flowers, vegetation, rocks, even an animal's coat, fur, feathers, etc., and of course, the human form.

The world is truly an awe inspiring workshop for the creative soul. Whenever I feel stressed or overwhelmed by Life's challenges, getting out into nature or channeling my energies into photography is truly restorative. I've worshipped in many buildings, but to me, there is no cathedral more majestic than the mountains, no meditative space more contemplative than the sea or a still lake at dawn.

I'd also like to give some encouragement to those who have physical challenges and perhaps feel that getting out into nature is too difficult or has to be limited to areas formally designated as accessible. Although a hip in serious need of replacement currently keeps me from hiking any long distances or venturing where rock climbing and scrambling are required, I definitely don't let that stop me. (Update as of September 2010 -- My hip has been replaced and recovery is going even better than expected! Can't wait to get out on the trails and challenge myself!)

I've learned it's possible to find wild beauty everywhere -- even by the roadside. I take every opportunity to put wheels to pavement, or better still, explore a dirt or gravel back road to dizzying heights with a few spine tingling drop-offs to get the adrenaline going. ("Extreme Goat Paths 'r Us!")

Spring of 2010 was a banner year for wildflowers. And unfortunately, a banner year for wildflower visitors as well. Public and private property has been under siege and the wildflowers are suffering from "too much love." There are so many online resources as well as TV shows, newspaper articles, etc., announcing where to find the blooms, so I have started an organization, the Wildflower Conservancy, to help educate people in how to enjoy wildflowers responsibly. Please come follow the Wildflower Conservancy as it grows and propagates the seeds of change.

Unless otherwise noted, I'm shooting handheld with a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35, DMC-FZ150 or DMC-FZ200. If you're interested in purchasing my work, please contact me.

Thanks for stopping by.

Kahlee

"Celebrate Life, Dare to Dream, Take Action and Expect Miracles"

***All of my photos, videos and written text on Flickr are copyrighted, © Kahlee Brighton, All Rights Reserved. If you're interested in using any of my material, please contact me directly.***