Here it is – the 5th Annual Worldwide Photo Walk!

The Corvallis Photo Walk will be on Saturday 13 October – and this year we’ll have a private morning of photography at the newly opened Garden of Gentle Breeze – a Japanese style garden in north Corvallis.

We’ll check-in at the parking area at the garden at 8:45AM (parking may be limited – so if you’re signing up with a friend – please consider carpooling). The walk will take place between 9AM and 11AM. After the walk – if folks are hungry and would like to talk photography with their fellow walkers – we can meet at La Rockita next to the Starbucks at the Timberhill Shopping Center. As the gardens are located on private property, please don’t arrive early.

And, yes – this walk is a FREE event for folks of ALL skill levels! Lunch after the event is optional and there’s certainly no obligation to purchase food or drink.

For those who have not joined a Photo Walk in the past – this isn’t a classroom or organized instruction. This is a chance to walk around and take photos. But – your fellow walkers will likely be willing to share tips and insights throughout the morning – just ask.

As for the walk itself – safety is a must. Please be aware of your surroundings and be alert to hazards along the way. This year’s walk will be in a garden with pathways and stairs constructed of natural materials that can be uneven and/or slippery.

Also – this is Oregon. And though there have been many beautiful early Octobers – weather can be mixed. So, please, be prepared for the weather and for walking – bring layers, comfortable shoes, and maybe a hat. And, since we’re scheduled to be out for 2 hours – don’t forget that water bottle!

And one last thing on the walk itself – these gardens are on private property and the owner has kindly made these available to our group. You can find out more about this garden at http://www.gardenofgentlebreeze.com/. The owner is OK with folks using tripods – but has asked that we be mindful of a few simple guidelines that he’s posted on his website: http://www.gardenofgentlebreeze.com/visit/.

About me? Well –I’m a part time photographer – and this is my third time leading the Corvallis event. Most of my photography is concentrated on events and activity – such as sports, music, or simply on location somewhere – but over the last couple of years I’ve also been working a bit on portraits. If you’re curious, you can check out some of my recent work over at camera47.wordpress.com.

Feel free to send along any questions that you might have – and I’ll answer as quickly as I can.