Our state parks offer a variety of souvenirs in the gift shops. We encourage you to browse and purchase an item or two. Sales do contribute to our funding and you will have a reminder of your visit.
But, there are some images of your visit that we cannot sell. The way you felt spellbound by the sunset on Smith Mountain Lake or the joy in your heart as your child smiled while petting a farm animal at Chippokes Plantation. These are the moments where a camera at the right place and time can capture an image that will be cherished for years to come.
Sometimes people are intimidated by the very thought of taking a picture. “I don’t know how to use one of those things. I’m not that talented.” Most cameras are not complicated. Almost every cell phone has one built in. If you can point the lenswhere you want it and press a button,you’ve created the image.Taking pictures need not be a competition.Equipment, skill, and talent are meaningless unless you care about the subject you are shooting. If you love thepeople and the place, you have a lovely picture.
I will discuss types of cameras, rules of photography, camera functions, and even a few specific locations in upcoming articles. The first step in creating memorable images is to desire and believe you can do it.