Nature Photography with Gerald and Buff Corsi

Gerald and Buff Corsi in Yosemite, CA

By Sandi Funke, Education Director

Gerald and Buff Corsi are world-class photographers whose works have been featured in National Geographic and other prestigious publications. On Sunday, April 27th they taught an Introduction to Field Photography class at Pepperwood, covering basic camera techniques as well as providing some tips and tricks based on their experiences. We asked them a few questions about their photography: 

Acorn Woodpecker © Gerald & Buff Corsi

You both had careers prior to pursing nature photography full time. How did you originally get into photography? 

It's been a lifelong interest for both of us. We actually met in a photo workshop about 40 years ago at the California Academy of Sciences.

What do you find most rewarding about nature photography? 

We find ourselves looking more closely at nature's beauty. 

Why would you recommend nature photography as a hobby? 

It takes us to interesting places with new experiences on each trip and makes us appreciate the variety of life on earth.

Lioness and cub © Gerald & Buff Corsi

What is one of your most memorable photos? 

We had been in the Masai Mara (Kenya) for several weeks and had the chance to watch and follow a lioness with her three newborn cubs--from the place she gave birth to them to eventually bringing them to her pride and introducing them to their father. The photo we enjoy most from that was the lioness carrying her littlest cub which seemed to need a ride from mom sometimes. 

Is there a photo you missed and wished you had gotten? 

Many photos have been missed for various reasons. We've been fortunate to be able to return to favorite places and try again.

Anything else you would like to add? 

Nature photography is a great hobby, but in today's market, unfortunately, not necessarily a financially rewarding career.

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