What served as your inspiration for becoming a photographer?
I have always had an interest in photography and grew up reading National Geographic, but what inspired me the most was a cold morning I work early on a Saturday to shoot at a local park.  I took some ho hum pictures of a bald eagle fishing had such a great time that I realized that I had finally found something that I was willing to trade my precious weekend sleep for, which made me realize I had found what I really wanted to do with my life in terms of my hobby and future career.

 What is your specialty? What do you photograph?
I specialize in the landscapes and wildlife of Florida which are both challenging subjects.  The natural beauty of Florida isn’t as obvious as somewhere like the Rocky Mountains and it takes a lot more work to find and capture a memorable photo.  Beyond trying to find these landscapes, I also enjoy photographing the huge variety of wildlife from alligators to bald eagles.

 What does it take to become a great photographer?
Practice, knowledge of your equipment and subject, and for those of us who shoot outdoors, a fair amount of luck.  The weather is unpredictable and many of my subjects are difficult to locate and very fearful of people.  Once I find them, I have little control over the lighting, their poses, or what they choose to do in front of my lens.

 What are some of the accolades and recognition that your photography has received?
I haven’t entered a lot of contests, but my photos have won Florida State Parks’ monthly photo contest and another photo was chosen for the cover of their 18-month calendar.  My photos have been displayed in Tallassee’s Mary Brogan Museum and are about to be exhibited in the lobby of a state agency’s headquarters.

What is that one elusive photo that you have yet to obtain?
I’ve been trying to track down bobcats and black bears, but haven’t found them yet.

What is your dream photo shoot location?
I can’t pick just one – for landscapes, Iceland, and for wildlife, Costa Rica and Australia.

Where can we see more of your work and contact you?
My website is www.ianandersonphotography.com, and I can be contacted at ian@ianandersonphotography.com