Research

I’m a self-professed nerd and what I’m going to say here will probably validate that in your mind as well. I make a habit of regularly going to the Glendora Public Library to check out photography books in search of refining my technique and hopefully learn something new. For enjoyment if not anything else. When I mean photography, I’m lumping in all books that are illustrated with photography not merely how-to books. I’ve discovered many new places to potentially photograph or store in my mind for the future by borrowing books from the library, and it was here I became a fan of Galen Rowell. It also helps that the Glendora Public Library regularly adds new books to their collection.

My addiction to books started as a young boy when my mom would take me over there every two weeks to check out the maximum amount of books allowed. I think at one time we probably read almost every children’s book in the library. Eventually sports and science became my primary interest, then travel photography as an adult.

I owe a lot of my interest in photography to the Glendora Public Library because it was here I learned the basics by reading how-to books then trying them out in gardens and scenic areas. It took me about two years before I made my first truly satisfying image and I haven’t looked back since. Growing up I never gave thought to shooting pictures; all I ever wanted to do was travel and be close to nature. In a sense, that is still all I want to do but photography gives me fulfillment that merely traveling for relaxation could never do. I like being challenged and having an artistic outlet otherwise I get bored quickly.

Borders Books, San Francisco and Daly City Libraries became my new Glendora Public Library when I moved up the Bay Area several years ago but they have benefited me as well. I think the best thing photographers can do for themselves is to study other photographers that interest them whether famous or not, innovative or not. That’s one reason why I keep going back to the library. The internet helps too nowadays but real books have more substance.

What did I check out today? Several issues of Arizona Highways magazine, Bird and Blooms magazine, Raptors of California field guide, Scenic Photography 101 by Kerry Drager, Backpacker magazine, Popular Photography magazine, Salmon River Country photography by Mark Lisk.

Make a donation (books, money, lint, whatever) to the Glendora Public Library:

Glendora Public Library
140 S. Glendora Ave.
Glendora, CA 91740
(626) 852-4891
www.ci.glendora.ca.us/library