I’m entering a last minute blog post into the Thomas Cook Explore the Elements photo contest. Although today is the deadline, I encourage you to all make a last minute attempt to get an entry in, as they’re giving away some fantastic prizes.
Their judges are a pretty great group of photographers, too, so it’s worth asking them to take a look at your photography. Just make sure to spread the news on Twitter using @ThomasCookUK and #exploretheelements.
Exploring the Elements through Photography:
Earth
“Sadly, it’s much easier to create a desert than a forest.” ~ James Lovelock
When I think of earth as an element, I sketch out mental pictures of the impressive Canadian Rockies or the barren landscape of the Andes; however, I also think about the old growth forests near Vancouver, British Columbia, as they rise from the earth to give us sanctuary and – probably most importantly – clean air to breathe.
Water:
“Never give up; for even rivers someday wash dams away” ~ Arthur Golden
Water is such an amazing force that it carves its way through precious landscapes. The Athabasca River flows past my house in Jasper National Park, and I’ve been lucky enough to see its source and its mouth. It’s incredible the landscapes it traverses; however, none is more spectacular than Athabasca Falls.
Fire:
“Slow down everyone
You’re moving too fast
Frames can’t catch you when
You’re moving like that”
Inaudible Melodies by Jack Johnson
Fire represents renewal. Forest and grass fires look destructive; however, they’re constructive. They renew a landscape and provide new animal habitat and good growing conditions for native plants. A campfire is refreshing, too, as it invites us to shut off our iPhones, reconnect with friends, and tell stories that grow our character.
Air:
“Aurora had but newly chased the night,
And purpled o’er the sky with blushing light” ~ John Dryden
I’ve spent a lot of time looking at the night sky, photographing its stars and chasing the northern lights, but I often find the most spectacular moments stop me in my tracks. I simply stare in awe.
Explore the Elements Nominations
Part of the entry requirements for the Explore the Elements contest is to nominate 5 other travel bloggers. I’m doing this at the last minute, so it’ll be tough for everyone to meet the deadline. I hope these people are ready!
1. Lauren Bath – She just launched her new website and needs to enter her first blog post!
2. Tom’s Bike Trip – He’s seen more of the earth on a bicycle than most of us will see in a lifetime.
3. I Backpack Canada – as my homeland has more of the elements than most places!
4. Everything Everywhere – Gary is one of the biggest travel bloggers on the planet and he’s transitioning more towards photography.
5. Landlopers – Matt Long is a travel blogger that seems to have balance figured out between time at home and time on the road. I need to figure that out!
Good luck!
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