TITLE: Storm of Badlands

Incoming storm over Badlands National Park, South Dakota.

AUTHOR: Jesse Mechling (United States)

I am a freelance photographer specializing in travel and nature photography. I received my first camera when I was 13, although it was not until I was in college that my passion for photography truly began. Following graduation from college, I embarked on a 15 month journey around the world, traveling and gaining experience as a photographer. Since that time, I have continued to travel and have been truly fortunate to have visited 49 states and 45 countries on six continents.

I grew up on a farm along the Chesapeake Bay and am an ardent land and marine conservationist. The oceans, and coasts occupy a special place for me and much of my photography revolves around life along the sea. I have a master’s degree in marine policy and work closely on marine conservation issues. Land patterns and shapes created naturally or by humans, also are heavily represented in my work. As a former student of history, I am awed by some of humanity’s most wonderful creations. From the Alhambra to the Taj Mahal to the Great Wall, my photography seeks to capture not only their grandeur, but also the delicate craftsmanship and intimacy of these enduring monuments.

I have also been witness to some of the world’s most beautiful and endangered wildlife. With my photography, I try to capture portraits of animals in their natural environment.

I use Canon digital DSLR cameras, and convert my images to black and white using Nik Silver Efex.