Ray McMullen Fine Art Photography

     The definition of a path is “a route to a destination”.       As a landscape photographer, I follow paths on a regular basis. No two paths are a like. Some times they are bright, sunny, and warm; then the next minute they are dark, wet, and cold. I never leave my path no matter how awkward it might be. I meet each obstacle with great anticipation.       "This is not a dress rehearsal this is your life." I often think about my path in life, and the similarities  of  the paths that I walk on a daily basis. Find your path and have the strength to make it yours. You never know what might be waiting for you.

     In the beginning, I wanted to find my own photographic style. I looked at thousands of photos, books, magazines, and videos in an effort to do this. There were a few Photographers that really influenced my passion for photography— 1.      Joe McNally  ... Joe taught me the importance of using the right light.  2.     Trey Ratcliff  ... Trey introduced me to the wonderful world of HDR. 3.     Peter Lik  ... Peter taught me how important it is to see the big picture.      While studying these photographers and their work, I took a little inspiration from each in an effort to  develop  “my style”. Years have passed, and now I believe you never stop developing your style. For me it is a work in progress. However, during my search I did find a love for landscape photography that I carry to this day.

     As a landscape photographer I thought the most important piece of equipment I needed, besides my camera was my backpack. After all, this single item would be carrying my food, water, camera, and other various things needed to shoot landscapes.       I now believe that your boots are one of, if not THE most important tools you have going out on any hike. A few weeks earlier I had attempted a difficult hike, caring my camera and some provisions about 30 pounds, while wearing my older Vasque boots. Unfortunately I did not achieve the distance I had hoped. I had blisters and my feet were killing me. I left the trail a defeated person.      I had been a loyal Vasque boot wearer for the past 10 to 15 years. However, when I needed to get a new pair, they just weren't the same shoe. I tried on several different brands, trying to find that perfect fit that I had come accustom. Finally I went to REI...

     When looking at a photograph that inspires me , I try to break down the reasons why. I want to know what the photographer did to capture the mood and draw me into that shot.  Those special photos of which I'm speaking, are the ones that make me feel as though I'm standing right there the moment the shutter was pressed.  Is it the lighting, angle,  composition or a combination of them all?  I am constantly trying to discover and learn different techniques.  I  seek out new locations and different times of the day, i n an effort to take that special shot.           So the next time you're viewing someone's work, study it. Look at the lighting, observe the time of day, and the angle from which it was taken. You might learn something new. Hopefully, after viewing other peoples work you will be inspired as I am.

     T his is something that really gets me excited. All the work of setting up the shot, post production, processing, and finally... printing.  I love seeing the final product mounted on the wall.        I remember the very first photo I printed. It was a shot taken in Pensacola, Florida, d owntown  in the winter. I liked the texture of the brick wall, and the moment with the guy riding the bike. I printed it up on regular paper and ink from my everyday office printer. It was far from being epic, but I was proud, I was happy, and most of all I was hooked. I am far from that first printed photo of Pensacola.       I've since invested in a photo printer, and the excitement is still there every time I print a shot.  If you haven't printed your own work before, give it a try. It may take your work from a hobby to something more.