In order to take nearly any photo, I have visited the site, planned the idea, watched the light, considered my angles and if nothing was currently pulling me, I left. The next day I woke up well before it was light out. Drove to the location with no ability to depend on the weather or know if the shot I wanted would be possible. But I was there. I carried all my gear, and I waited. Once I had light I started to work. I took several hundred photos to try angles, to make sure it was dynamic and interesting. I waited for clouds to pass, I waited for the early morning walkers to pass by after lovely greetings. I laid on the ground in the dirt because the lower angles are something we don’t see enough (in my opinion). I went home. Uploaded everything and began sifting through, grabbing the best options. Toying with edits and ensuring the final product looked like what I hoped, usually it’s even better! But this takes a couple hours minimum. So all in. Any given photo takes me around 6-10 hours depending on location. And that’s assuming I haven’t flown out of the country, as I so often do. 

I hope I've made it easier to see just how much goes into the art of photography. And it's important to note that this isn't just me, most photographers have to dedicate this and more to their efforts to share their vision. It certainly isn't just a matter of buying the equipment and rocking up and suddenly you have these incredible images. A few people may have that gift right off the bat, but I am willing to bet it's far more the exception than the rule. I remember in college one of my instructors told us a story of a person he knew who went out and did just that. Bought all the latest, greatest, and most expensive equipment he could, and went out to shoot. Within a very short time the man had offered to sell my instructor the equipment at a discount as he was ready to throw in the towel and walk away. 

Creative pursuits should be driven by inspiration, adventure and passion, not a desire to conquer. Regardless of if this is a hobby, passing interest, or a future career path you want to pursue, there is beauty to be discovered if you are willing to look for it. If for no other reason create for your own sake, but always remember, it is art.