Rick Sammon: Man on a Mission
Award-winning photographer Rick Sammon loves his day job. A tireless, prolific and inspirational image-maker, Rick, called by some “The Godfather of Photography,” is one of the most active photographers on the planet – dividing his time between creating images, leading photo workshops, and making personal appearances. Rick’s enthusiasm for digital imaging is contagious. He is a man on a mission – a mission to make digital photography fun, creative, exciting and rewarding for others. Speaking of fun, here's a fun interview Kalebra Kelby did with Rick.
A natural teacher, Rick enjoys sharing his photographs and providing practical how-to advice to a wide audience of photo enthusiasts through his blog, books, how-to videos, a podcast and an expanding following on social media.
Rick is also a guest lecturer on Poseidon Expeditions. His most recent adventure with Poseidon was to the High Arctic.
Speaking of being a natural teacher, whenever possible, Rick teaches guitar - and plays with musicians of all ages. Here's a shot of a jam at Rick's house. "It's so cool playing with young musicians," Rick says. "Keeps one young at heart." Need a bass player? Need a rhythm guitar player? And, Rick offers free guitar, bass and piano lessons here.
Rick started his professional photography career as an underwater photographer, producing six underwater books and leading scuba diving expeditions to the seven seas and to Lake Baikal, Siberia - the largest and deepest lake in the world.
He easily transitioned into travel, landscape, wildlife, cultural and nature photography. Rick’s images, from his travels to more than 100 countries, have been published in numerous newspapers and magazines, and have been featured in his 42 books, including the popular Rick Sammon’s Exploring the Light, and in this on-line training classes.
Click here to see Rick’s latest books.
Rick is also an instructor on KelbyOne, where he shares his knowledge – though almot 30 classes – about light and composition.
While Rick describes himself as “evolving,” he hesitates to categorize his work. “I’m an A-to-Z type of photographer. I do it all – and I enjoy the freedom of not specializing.”
With nearly 40 years of experience, this self-taught photographer has many accomplishments – and many more anticipated for the road ahead. As Rick suggests, “When you are through changing, you are through.”
Check out this video to gain some insight into Rick's teaching philosophies.
Shoot Rick an email with questions or comments.
Follow Rick on Instagram.
Follow Rick on twitter. Daily tweets about new stuff.
Check out Rick Facebook Fan Page.
For those who need some photo therapy, motivation and wisdom, Rick started the Photo Therapy Facebook group. Join today!
Rick, as an Explorer of Life, started the Explorers of Life Facebook group exclusively for smartphone users. Join the fun!
Rick and Susan Sammon lead photo workshops around the United States and around the world - where they make learning fun for everyone.
Rick's photo workshop participants are familiar with his "Sammonisms" - one-liners that drive home an important photo technique. Here are a few:
- The name of the game is to fill the frame.
- Dead center is deadly.
- When you think you are close, get closer.
- The camera looks both ways. Adapted from Freeman Patterson's "The Camera Points Both Ways."
- Expose for the highlights.
- Use your camera like a spaceship. (A Dick Zakia philosophy.)
- Light illuminates, shadows define.
- Backlight = shoot tight.
- Make pictures, just don't take pictures.
- See eye to eye - shoot eye to eye.
- Take the darn flash off the camera.