A real feeling of accomplishment came over me when I pushed ‘return’ on my computer last week sending my book about the Fascieux Creek Wetland to the publisher. Months spent selecting images, formatting, writing, proofreading and finally conducting a detailed examination of the entire project had come to an end.
I am thrilled with what I have done, yet I am nervous. Will the book meet my expectations? I’m sure that feeling will remain until the moment I finally have the completed book in my hands.
My story of the Fascieux Creek Wetland is about much more than photography. It’s about an urban wetland that I knew nothing about. It’s about a chance conversation that drew my attention to it and it’s about realizing that there are many such locations in the Okanagan watershed each of which is an ecosystem where many critters thrive.
There are so many places in the world I would love to visit and photograph particularly along British Columbia’s west coast. Whales, grizzly bear and otters are just a few of the animals I would love to aim my camera at. But age has snuck up and is now a reality that must be considered. So when I discovered the Fascieux Creek Wetland I discovered a new reality. Nature is right in my own ‘back yard’.
Patience and perseverance is often associated with wildlife photographers. Regardless of the size of the beast or their location these habitats are so important.
Ecosystems like the Fascieux Creek Wetland cannot be considered as ‘one and done’ photo trips. I found that to make the most of such locations I had to visit many times and at many different times of the day. Learning the rhythms of the seasons and how the critters behaved in each of the seasons was crucial to making the best photographs.
Having the book in my hands will not be the end of the story. There are publishing options to consider for further editions. Hard and soft cover books, coffee table books, magazines and ebooks are formats that Blurb, the company I am working with, is able to produce. I am leaning toward an eBook option. But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Once I have the finished product in hand I’ll consider my options.
I love to have my images printed and hung on the wall. Some of these have found new homes. But in reality most of my work resides on a hard drive unseen and not shared with others. The book option is an excellent way to enjoy my work and to share it with others. I’m thinking that this book, The Fascieux Creek Wetland: Seasons of Beauty, may be just the beginning.
corolp
14 Mar 2021Congratulations, Stu on the publication of your book. I know well the challenge of publication and that feeling of angst coupled with satisfaction when it is finally ready to share with the world. I have no doubt you have captured the beauty of this special wetland in a magnificent style. Now those who are unable to visit Fascieux Creek will be able to do so through your artistic lens.
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thanks Corol! There are many challenges as you mention with such a project. I’m enjoying it and find that I have become quite picky. I suppose that is a good thing.
corolp
17 Mar 2021It is a good and necessary thing.
PaulDurose
14 Mar 2021Congratulations on completing your book ready for publishing, Stu. Another step on the journey!
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thanks Paul! It is indeed another step in the journey.
Lynn Popoff
14 Mar 2021Where is this wetland? It sounds like an incredible project… keep me posted
Cheers Lynn
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thanks Lynn! The Fascieux Creek Wetland is located in the Lower Mission of Kelowna. It is across the street from Save on Foods, between Richter and Casorso.
Sheryl Korsch
14 Mar 2021Hi Stu ~ What an interesting blog, written by you, I discovered this afternoon! 🙂 Very happy to hear you’re publishing a book with all your Wonderful Photographs in it. Where and when will the finished product be available?
Please continue to keep your Beautiful, Interesting and Gorgeous photos posted on FB!
Best of Luck on Your Future Endeavours, Stu! 🙂
Sheryl
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thanks for commenting Shery! I appreciate your encouragement.
Jane
14 Mar 2021So excited for you Stu! Congratulations! What an accomplishment for you! Hope to see your book soon! ? Jane
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thank you Jane! I’ve received the draft copy. Now to clean it up and get it out.
Alan Flynn
14 Mar 2021Lots of time, travel, photography and writing gone into this Stu and selecting special scenes could not have been easy. I love the cover and good luck with the publication.
Alan
Stu Dale
17 Mar 2021Thanks for commenting Alan. I enjoy writing. Combined with photography it make for some great moments.
Ron
18 Mar 2021Well done Stu, looking forward to seeing the finished edition.
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