Wildlife Portfolio Updated

I just updated my wildlife portfolio. While I am very involved in sports photography, wildlife photography is another photographic passion of mine. There is no place like the mountains and whenever I can get there I enjoy photographing the wildlife. You can see my complete updated wildlife portfolio here.

Here are some examples:

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Increase Your YouTube Subscribers in a Unique Way

YouTube has become a powerful platform for content creators to share their videos and engage with their audience.
However, gaining subscribers can sometimes be a challenging task. In this article, we will explore a unique way to
increase your YouTube subscribers and boost your channel’s growth.

The Power of Social Media

Social media platforms have revolutionized the way we connect and share content. Utilizing social media can
significantly enhance your YouTube channel’s visibility and attract new subscribers. By promoting your videos
across various social media platforms, you can tap into new audiences and encourage them to subscribe to your
channel.

Engage with Your Audience

One effective way to increase your YouTube subscribers is by actively engaging with your audience. Responding to
comments, asking for feedback, and starting conversations will make your viewers feel valued and connected to
your channel. Encourage viewers to subscribe by creating compelling calls-to-action within your videos.

Collaborate with Other YouTubers

Collaborations with other YouTubers can be a game-changer for your channel. Partnering with creators in your
niche allows you to tap into their subscriber base and expose your content to a new audience. Collaborative
videos or shoutouts can help you gain more visibility and attract subscribers who are interested in similar
content.

Create High-Quality and Engaging Content

The quality of your content is crucial for attracting and retaining subscribers. Invest in good equipment for
filming and editing to ensure your videos look professional. Additionally, focus on creating engaging content
that provides value to your viewers. Unique and creative videos will make your channel stand out and encourage
viewers to subscribe for more.

Buying YouTube Subscribers

While organic growth is desirable, some content creators choose to give their channel a boost by purchasing
YouTube subscribers. It’s important to note that buying subscribers should be approached with caution. Quality
and engagement are vital for long-term success on YouTube. If you decide to buy subscribers, make sure to choose
a reputable service provider like https://themarketingheaven.com/buy-youtube-subscribers/

The Marketing Heaven offers real and high-quality subscribers that can help jumpstart your channel’s growth.
However, it’s essential to use purchased subscribers as a starting point and continue to focus on creating
valuable content and engaging with your audience.

New Pennsylvania Elk Photography Experience Announced

Ready for an unforgettable photo experience? Join us for a photo trip to photograph the Pennsylvania elk! We just announced the upcoming fall trip: October 1-4, 2018. For more details and to sign up go to: http://www.bobshankphotography.com/PA%20Elk%20Experience/Upcoming%20Trips.htm

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The Role of Storytelling in Brand Marketing

In today’s crowded marketplace, where consumers are bombarded with advertisements and brand messages, storytelling has become an essential tool in brand marketing. At its core, storytelling goes beyond showcasing a product’s features—it builds an emotional connection between a brand and its audience, making it memorable, relatable, and engaging. Through stories, brands can convey their values, mission, and unique personality, transforming passive consumers into loyal advocates.

This article explores the significance of storytelling in brand marketing, why it resonates so effectively with consumers, and how businesses can craft compelling stories that enhance their brand identity.
1. Why Storytelling Matters in Brand Marketing

Storytelling in marketing is about creating a narrative that captures the brand’s essence and communicates it in a way that resonates emotionally with its audience. Unlike conventional advertisements, which focus solely on products or services, storytelling dives deeper, enabling consumers to see themselves as part of the brand’s journey.

Emotional Engagement: Humans are wired to respond to stories. When brands share a compelling story, it taps into emotions, making the brand more memorable and relevant. For instance, brands like Dove and Nike don’t just sell soap or athletic wear; they tell stories about self-confidence, resilience, and empowerment, creating a strong emotional connection with their customers.
Differentiation: In a market where many companies offer similar products, storytelling helps brands stand out. By crafting a unique narrative, brands can differentiate themselves from competitors, showcasing their values, heritage, or mission.
Brand Loyalty: Stories have the power to build relationships. When consumers feel aligned with a brand’s narrative, they’re more likely to remain loyal, turning into long-term supporters and advocates.

Storytelling, when done effectively, doesn’t feel like marketing—it feels like an experience, a conversation, or even an invitation to be part of something bigger.
2. The Elements of an Effective Brand Story

A great brand story isn’t just about showcasing the brand—it’s about creating a narrative that is both authentic and compelling. The key elements of an effective brand story include:

Relatable Characters: Every story needs characters that the audience can identify with. In brand storytelling, these characters could be the founders, employees, customers, or even the consumers themselves. By creating relatable characters, brands make their stories personal, helping customers see themselves in the narrative.
Clear Conflict or Challenge: A story without conflict or challenge lacks depth. This element is crucial, as it brings drama and relatability to the narrative. For instance, many brands share their struggles and challenges in bringing their product to market, building empathy and understanding among their audience.
Resolution and Purpose: An effective brand story offers a resolution that reflects the brand’s mission or values. Whether it’s a mission to make the world more sustainable, provide inclusive fashion, or promote healthy living, the resolution reinforces the brand’s purpose.
Consistent Tone and Voice: Consistency in tone and voice across all brand stories helps reinforce brand identity. Whether a brand chooses a lighthearted, humorous tone or a serious, mission-driven one, consistency makes the story more credible and familiar.

By incorporating these elements, brands can craft stories that resonate deeply with their audience, leaving a lasting impression that goes beyond the typical sales pitch.
3. Examples of Storytelling in Brand Marketing

Several brands have successfully leveraged storytelling to build strong connections with their audiences. Here are a few notable examples:

Nike: Known for its “Just Do It” slogan, Nike has mastered the art of storytelling by focusing on resilience, grit, and personal triumph. Its ads often feature real athletes overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries, inspiring audiences to do the same.

Airbnb: Airbnb tells stories that highlight unique experiences of guests and hosts, showcasing diverse destinations and personal journeys. By focusing on these stories, Airbnb creates an emotional appeal that positions it as more than just a booking platform—it becomes a gateway to connection and exploration.

Apple: Apple’s storytelling is centered on innovation and individuality. Rather than just selling tech products, Apple tells stories about how its technology enables creativity, expression, and connection, appealing to consumers who see themselves as creative and forward-thinking.

These brands use storytelling to communicate their identity, build an emotional bond with consumers, and strengthen brand loyalty, making them more than just product providers—they become part of consumers’ lives.
4. How Storytelling Enhances Brand Identity

Storytelling plays a vital role in shaping and communicating brand identity. Here’s how storytelling enhances brand perception and identity:

Showcasing Core Values: Through stories, brands can convey their core values, such as integrity, innovation, or community. For instance, Patagonia, a brand known for its environmental commitment, frequently shares stories about its sustainability initiatives and eco-friendly products, aligning its brand identity with environmental values.
Creating Brand Legacy: Storytelling can also reinforce a brand’s legacy or heritage. Brands with a long history, like Levi’s or Coca-Cola, use stories about their origins and legacy to add depth to their identity, reminding consumers of their journey and long-standing reputation.
Fostering Trust: Consumers want to buy from brands they trust. Storytelling humanizes a brand, making it more relatable and trustworthy. By sharing authentic stories, brands can show their dedication to quality, ethics, and social responsibility, fostering a stronger relationship with consumers.

When consumers feel that a brand stands for something meaningful, they are more likely to support it and develop a sense of loyalty that goes beyond products and services.
5. Tips for Crafting a Compelling Brand Story

To create a story that resonates with consumers and strengthens brand identity, here are a few essential tips:

Keep it Authentic: Authenticity is key. Today’s consumers can easily spot inauthentic messages, so it’s crucial for brands to stay true to their values and principles. Avoid exaggeration or fabricating stories; instead, focus on genuine narratives that reflect the brand’s identity.
Know Your Audience: The best stories are tailored to the audience’s interests, values, and needs. Understanding the target audience helps brands craft messages that are relevant and impactful, fostering a stronger connection.
Use Visuals to Enhance the Story: Visual elements like images, videos, and infographics can bring stories to life. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok are especially powerful for visual storytelling, allowing brands to connect with audiences on a sensory level.
Make it Emotional: Stories that evoke strong emotions—whether happiness, nostalgia, or inspiration—are more likely to stick. Use emotions strategically to create memorable experiences that audiences will want to share.
Be Consistent Across Channels: Whether it’s on social media, websites, or advertisements, brand stories should have a consistent tone and message. Consistency reinforces brand identity and helps build recognition and familiarity.

By following these tips, brands can craft stories that captivate audiences and create a memorable brand image that stands out in a crowded market.
6. The Impact of Storytelling on Consumer Behavior

Effective storytelling can significantly influence consumer behavior. When consumers connect with a brand’s story, they are more likely to:

Make Purchase Decisions: Storytelling can provide the context that pushes consumers from consideration to purchase, as it gives them a reason to connect with the brand on an emotional level.
Engage with the Brand: Consumers who relate to a brand’s story are more likely to engage with it, sharing content, leaving positive reviews, and spreading the brand message through word-of-mouth.
Develop Brand Loyalty: A strong brand story can foster long-term loyalty, making consumers more likely to return and even become advocates for the brand. For instance, customers who resonate with the story of a sustainable brand are more likely to stay loyal due to shared values.

Through storytelling, brands can foster a deeper connection with their audience, influencing their behavior and enhancing brand loyalty in the process.
Conclusion

Storytelling has become a cornerstone of modern brand marketing from sites like The Marketing Heaven, transforming the way companies communicate with their audiences. By moving beyond traditional marketing messages, storytelling allows brands to create connections that are personal, meaningful, and memorable. It gives brands the opportunity to showcase their values, mission, and vision in a way that resonates emotionally with consumers.

In a competitive market, where consumers have endless choices, brands that master the art of storytelling will continue to stand out. Through relatable characters, authentic messages, and emotional resonance, storytelling builds trust, drives engagement, and ultimately strengthens brand loyalty. For brands willing to invest in authentic narratives, storytelling is not just a marketing tool—it’s a powerful vehicle for shaping brand identity and creating lasting relationships with consumers.

New Pennsylvania Elk Photography Experience Just Listed

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We just announced a new Pennsylvania Elk Photography Experience, which will be held on October 2-5, 2017. This guided photo trip will take you to the amazing Pennsylvania Elk for a photographic experience you will not soon forget!

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Along the way, you will be around some neat and interesting people who, like you, share a passion for wildlife and outdoor photography. We present three different photography seminars, including how to set up your camera and photograph the PA Elk, and an in-depth look at how to use Adobe Lightroom for your photography. The final seminar is about wildlife photography ethics, the PA Elk Herd, and we also have you share your best five shots from the trip so we can learn from each other!

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You will have the opportunity to be out on six photo shoots to photograph the majestic elk during the fall rut when their activity is at an all-time high. The photographic possibilities are only limited by your imagination!

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We only have 1 more opening available for 2017 but we will be doing this again next year. Click here for more information.

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Bird Photography 101 at Pocono Environmental Education Center

Presentation - Bird Photography 101

I led a workshop entitled Bird Photography 101 at the Pocono Environmental Education Center this morning. Eleven participants showed up to learn how to make better bird photos and I had a blast!

I shared some basic equipment needs, camera settings, and tips on how to attract and photograph birds in our backyard. The participants were enthusiastic, had very good questions, and shared some additional tips, which really added to the success of today’s workshop. I enjoyed the time with this group very much!

I am scheduled to lead Bird Photography 101 again on September 20th from 2pm – 4pm. For more information and to register for this event, go to the PEEC website. If you are interested in learning some ways to make better bird photographs in your backyard, this is the workshop for you!

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He was Barking at Me!

Chincoteague 2014-01-21-148I was in Chincoetague, Virginia this week. On Tuesday morning I was photographing a blue heron when I heard this sound. I wasn’t sure what it was at first. Then I looked down the way a little off to my right and there was this red fox barking at me!

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It was great to see a fox so close. Sadly, it saw me before I saw it. I didn’t get many photos of it and no really great ones, but I did get a few. It was my first time seeing a red fox to photograph.

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The blue heron saw this predator well before I did! This served as a great reminder: don’t get stuck in tunnel vision when photographing wildlife. Keep alert and watch in all directions. You never know what might come along!

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Before & After

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Lightroom is my go-to choice for both keeping track of and editing my photographs. I do use Photo Mechanic and Aurora HDR software, as well, but those are topics for another blog post. I also have and use Photoshop, but easily 95%+ of my photo edits are accomplished in Lightroom. So I thought for today’s blog post, I would share this before and after photograph to just share a few edits I do routinely in Lightroom.

First, I have to thank Dick McCreight, my colleague and professional photographer who is an absolute guru with Lightroom’s Develop module. He makes it look so easy and is somehow uniquely able to teach what he knows. He is awesome! Thanks, Dick! Also, John Kliest, another colleague and photographer, recently helped me to better understand Lightroom’s Develop module. One tip in particular comes to mind that I learned from John, which involves the Highlights slider. I know my way around Lightroom’s Library module well. I can edit a new shoot in no time, flagging the best photos and using color labels to identify photos I want to use for my blog or some other purpose. The Develop module, however, was a place I somewhat feared to tread. It just seemed kinda overwhelming to me to be honest. Well, Dick and John relieved my fears and taught me some really valuable and helpful stuff so I can now edit my photos efficiently. Thanks guys!

Let’s start by looking at the first photo above. You can see the exposure is a little dark and there is a floating arm from a person located in the lower-right corner of the photo. The cropping tool was used first and I just slightly cropped out that floating arm. LIghtroom makes this quick and easy.

Then I adjusted the exposure, bringing up the light a little shy of half a stop. This was a good start to editing the photo but I knew I couldn’t stop here.

So, I then adjusted the highlights, white clipping, and black clipping sliders. The goal in wildlife photography is to always keep the focus on the subject. Working with the white and black portions of the photograph can sometimes provide drastic changes. Sure enough, once I made these adjustments, I had to scale back the exposure about 2-tenths of a stop. I guess I should have started with these adjustments before correcting the exposure.

Then I worked on adjusting the shadows and contrast. Typically, I find the shadows slider to be a very helpful tool in bringing details out of the dark, literally!

Finally, I added a little smidgen of clarity and vibrance, which I do to most of my photographs.

Within just a few short minutes I edited the photo to a very usable and better quality photograph by using the Develop module in Lightroom. I know I still have a lot to learn about properly editing photographs, but equipped with even the little knowledge I do posses, I can see big changes in my photographs after editing them.

Lightroom is a great tool on a number of levels. I will post more blog entries in the future to share in detail how I use this amazing software. Lightroom rocks!

Be Patient… Let Them Come to You

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Much of the time spent in wildlife photography is pursuing the animals we want to photograph. I often tease that, “Yeah, I was out on the mountain chasing the elk around with my camera.” I do not mean this literally, of course. Chasing an animal is just not a very good idea if you intend to photograph it!

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So how can you actually get closer to the wild animals? Be patient and let them come to you. That’s right, be patient. In our fast-paced society today, this is not an easy thing for many people to do. Being patient means taking the time to stay in one place for an extended period of time.

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Last week, while shooting the Pennsylvania Elk, we were on a hill with a small harem of cows and a couple of bulls within about 100 yards of us. We had our cameras on our tripods and were capturing some photographs at that distance. We patiently remained in that one location for well over an hour. Amazingly, the elk ever so slowly began to feed in our direction. They didn’t close the distance by leaps and bounds; rather, they slowly mossyed in our direction. This took time and we remained patient.

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Eventually, the bull moved to within a few yards of our location. You can see in these photos that I now had too much lens with my 200-400mm. It was an amazing experience!

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The key was staying still and patient, while letting the animals slowly feed in our direction instead of chasing them by trying to get closer. I firmly believe that most photographers will get better photographs if they practiced more patience with their subjects. The next time you are shooting wildlife, practice more patience. Remain in one location and let them work toward you. It is an amazing experience when this happens and you will get some incredible photos, too!

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