A photographer's passion project has captured the nation's attention, and it all started with a simple walk on a boardwalk.
The Power of Nature's Beauty
In East Grand Rapids, a dedicated photographer, Steve Jessmore, has spent over 225 mornings exploring the wonders of Reeds Lake. Surrounded by luxurious homes and a cozy Starbucks, this lake offers a unique blend of urban and natural beauty. Jessmore's mission? To capture the essence of Reeds Lake across all four seasons, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed.
His stunning bird photography, a result of over four years of dedication, has earned him national recognition in Audubon Magazine. This recognition snowballed into a commission from the Friends of the East Grand Rapids Library to showcase the natural wonders of Reeds Lake.
A Journey to Discovery
Jessmore's journey began on his very first visit to the lake. He instantly recognized the potential for a captivating story, noting the lake's accessibility and how it welcomed everyone, from those in wheelchairs to parents with strollers. With a background in photojournalism, he approached his new project with a unique perspective.
As newspapers declined, Jessmore's career evolved. He worked with universities and even ventured into freelancing, but the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to his freelance work. It was then that his wife suggested nature photography, and the rest, as they say, is history.
The Magic of the Torch River
Jessmore's first nature photography adventure took him to the Torch River, where he encountered a challenge. Ducks flew overhead, but he couldn't capture their image in the pre-dawn light. As a photojournalist, he was determined not to return empty-handed. He declared, "Game on," and set out to capture those elusive flying creatures in the dark. Within a year, his persistence paid off, earning him first place and an honorable mention in the National Audubon Society's photography contest.
This success led him to Reeds Lake, where he estimates he's taken over half a million photographs. On Tuesday, he added one more to the collection, capturing a bald eagle, albeit not his best shot, he admits.
The Beauty of Reeds Lake
Jessmore's passion for Reeds Lake is evident in his description of the sunrise. "It's just gorgeous. Every morning's different," he says. He maintains his photojournalist ethics, refraining from baiting or flushing birds to get the perfect shot. Instead, he patiently waits and observes, letting the birds do their thing. This approach has earned him the trademark name, "Birds Doing Stuff."
He's photographed a diverse range of birds at the lake, from great-horned owls and hawks to small falcons called merlins. He's witnessed tundra swans lifting off the lake in large flocks and has seen bald eagles almost every morning. It's a wild experience right in the heart of the city.
A Higher Purpose
Jessmore's work extends beyond capturing beautiful images. He believes his photography serves a higher purpose, which aligns with the Audubon project's mission. He says, "If we all learn to appreciate and save what's close to home, the world gets saved."
On Tuesday morning, as the sun rose and reflected off the ice, Jessmore pointed out two bald eagles standing on the lake's frozen surface. His passion and dedication to capturing the beauty of Reeds Lake have not only earned him national recognition but have also inspired a deeper appreciation for the natural world around us.
And this is the part most people miss...
What do you think? Is nature photography an art form that can inspire environmental conservation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
