Through the Lens: A Nature Photography Hike

Discover new ways to observe and photograph the natural world during an instructional morning hike with photographer, writer, and Geauga County native Kendrick Chittock. Kendrick will share the creative process and philosophy behind his work and a brief presentation on visual storytelling, practical skills, and equipment. Participants will then head into the private preserve, where Kendrick will offer hands-on instruction for composing images, working with natural light, and capturing the details and character of the landscape.

Although Kendrick specializes in Fujifilm cameras, the experience is designed for photographers of every ability and equipment level. Bring a professional or point-and-shoot camera—or simply use the phone in your pocket. What matters most is your curiosity and willingness to look more closely.

Coffee and light snacks will be provided.

About the Presenter:

David Kendrick Chittock is a photographer and writer whose images and words reveal lasting relational experiences between people and nature. Kendrick sees environmental challenges as opportunities for spiritual alignment, and his mix of enticing images remind collectors of the stunning impacts of the wild on the human heart. Kendrick accompanies clients in the the field to photograph destination outings including mountain hunting, remote fly fishing, and wilderness recreation. He is also available for commissions to photograph the landscapes you love most. Kendrick’s photography has been exhibited at the Cleveland Botanical Garden, included in the Eclipse the Photosphere exhibit at Bostwick Design Art Initiative, and displayed at artist-hosted events such as An Evening Afield. His writing and narrative images have also appeared in fine publications such as Gray’s Sporting Journal, The Fly Fish Journal, and The Drake. For more information on Kendrick's work, please visit his website at www.dkendrickc.com and to sign up for his weekly digital Substack letter, AFIELD Notes, please see www.readafieldnotes.com.

Special thanks to our presenting sponsors, Richard & Christie Frenchie and our series sponsor, Patterson Fruit Farm.

Patterson Fruit Farm is a 7th Generation family farm and market growing apples, peaches, and strawberries and producing and selling maple syrup.

The farm market is open year round and provides a scenic location for visitors looking for the freshest fruit and produce, cider, gifts, and baked goods. Patterson Fruit Farm also offers "pick your own" fruit, the Family Fun Fest in September and October, event and wedding venues, cooking classes, group tours and more! https://pattersonfarm.com/ 440-729-1964

Know Before You Go 

Distance of Walk | Hike: ~1.6 miles

Difficulty Level:  Average

Trail Conditions: This field hike will be on natural, uneven terrain. This private preserve includes floodplain areas, so trails and walking surfaces may be muddy, damp, slippery, or uneven depending on recent weather.

Footwear & Clothing: Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots with good traction. Waterproof footwear is strongly recommended. Avoid sandals, dress shoes, open-toe shoes, smooth-soled shoes, or white/fashion sneakers. Long pants are recommended due to tall grasses, brush, insects, poison ivy, ticks, and uneven ground. Dress in comfortable layers appropriate for the weather, and consider bringing a rain jacket or light outer layer if conditions are cool or damp.

Dogs & Pets: Please leave dogs and other pets at home unless the event description specifically states that they are permitted. Service animals are welcome in accordance with applicable law.

What to Bring: Because this is a photography hike, participants should also bring only what they can comfortably carry while walking. A small backpack, water bottle, camera or phone, extra battery, and insect repellent are recommended.

Additional Notes: Excursions take place in natural outdoor settings. Conditions may change due to weather, trail conditions, wildlife activity, or other site-specific factors. Foundation staff or excursion leaders may adjust the route or program as needed for participant safety and resource protection.

There are no restrooms.

Ticket price for this Guided Excursion is $25 - proceeds benefit conservation, park enhancement, and nature education in Geauga County through the Foundation for Geauga Parks.

This series is included in the Foundation for Geauga Parks Membership Program:

-Member level participants may attend one Guided Excursion or Wellness in the Wild program free per plan year [use your voucher code to select this as your free session]

-Member Plus level participants receive one free ticket AND a free ticket for a friend attending with you for one Guided Excursion or Wellness in the Wild program per plan year [use your voucher code to select this as your free session].

Make sure you're logged into the website and when you enter your information and select your tickets, the membership option you chose will be applied.

If you can no longer attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can release your spot to another guest. Registrations and ticket purchases are nonrefundable, but advance notice of cancellations is greatly appreciated, especially for limited-capacity programs and excursions.

If the event is canceled or postponed, registered attendees will be notified promptly and we will make every effort to reschedule. Unless otherwise noted, registrations and ticket purchases are nonrefundable.