Join/Renew   Currents Newsletter   Regional Resources   Document Library   Speaker's Bureau   President's Page   Member Survey   Membership Info	President's Message May/June 2003 Observations from the Field by Michael Francis, President As I am writing this, spring is quickly turning into summer. It's hard for me to stay home and work in the office this time of year, what with young bison, elk calves, and bear cubs roaming around Yellowstone. Lucky me, I live only a couple of hours away from my favorite park. There seem to be plenty of folks who, like me, are fond of Yellowstone, if the roads are any indication. They are more crowded with each passing day, and it seems like every park visitor has a long lens and tripod. Something I have noticed in the past few years is how well-behaved the photographers in the park are, for the most part anyway. In years past the sight of a bear would have sent folks running out into the field after the animals. Now, most watch and wait from the side of the road. Last week a ranger complimented a group of photographers I was with on how well they were following the rules. I wonder if NANPA's Principles of Ethical Field Practices could be part of the reason? Unfortunately, there are photographers who still break the rules and make it hard for the rest of us. A few weeks ago, a camera club from Idaho came into the park and left with a handful of citations from the rangers. None of them were NANPA members. I've had the opportunity to visit with and hand out a number of membership brochures to fellow photographers. It seems that a number of folks who are not members are aware of who we are and are just waiting to be asked before joining up with us. Some are under the impression that NANPA is for professionals only. Please join me this year in recruiting new members to our organization. Well, I've spent enough time here in the office. It's time to pack up the truck and head out the door. Enjoy your time in the field. Back to President's Page         Site Index       Search       Disclaimers       Contact Us   North American Nature Photography Association 10200 West 44th Avenue, Suite 304 Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-2840, USA Phone: 303-422-8527 Fax: 303-422-8894 E-mail: info@nanpa.org   © 2001 All Rights Reserved