What we’re about
Are you inspired by the beauty of the natural world and eager to capture it through your lens? Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, this is your community.
I’m starting this group to bring together photographers who are passionate about nature—landscapes, wildlife, birds, macro, and conservation storytelling. My goal is to create a supportive, welcoming community where we can learn, share, and grow together.
We’ll meet at least once a month for local photo walks, outdoor adventures, or focused discussions on specific aspects of nature photography. Some gatherings will be casual, others more educational. Occasionally, we’ll host guest speakers (via Zoom or in person) to help inspire and challenge us. Some events will have a fee while others will be free.
This group is open to all experience levels—from total beginners to working professionals. If you’re curious, committed, or just want to spend more time with your camera in nature, this group is for you.
About the Organizer
I’m Donald Quintana, a professional nature and wildlife photographer who recently relocated from California’s Central Coast to Cedar Rapids. I lead tours and teach workshops throughout the Americas, the U.S, and Africa, with a focus on ethical photography and conservation visual storytelling. I’m excited to connect with other nature lovers and photographers here in Eastern Iowa and to build a thriving local photo community.
Come join us—I’d love to meet you and see what you’re passionate about capturing!
Find us on Facebook and share your images there at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1192095968575999
Upcoming events
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Feathers in Focus: Full Day Bird Photography Masterclass (Paid Event)
ICNC (Indian Creek Nature Center), 5300 Otis Road SE, Cedar Rapids, IA, USJoin award-winning nature photographer Donald Quintana for a small-group, full-day workshop set during peak fall migration at Indian Creek Nature Center. Surrounded by vibrant prairies, woodlands, and wetlands, this scenic location provides the ideal backdrop for photographing birds in their natural habitat.
We’ll begin early in the field with guided instruction on ethical bird photography techniques, composition, and light. Bring your camerra and longest focal length lens you own. After a break for lunch , the group will move indoors for a hands-on post-processing session using Adobe Photoshop or your editing software of choice. The focus will be on enhancing images with care, clarity, and creative intent. So bring your laptop or other device you use for editing photos.
This workshop is designed for intermediate photographers who want to improve both their fieldwork and editing skills. Dress for the weather, bring your camera gear, a sack lunch, and be ready for a full day of focused learning and connection with nature.
Pre-registration is required. $160 for Non-members, $150 for Members
To register click here: https://tinyurl.com/bd4npedn
Lunch is not included. Please pack a lunch.
Donald Quintana is an award-winning professional nature and wildlife photographer whose work has earned national acclaim, including recognition as a winner in the Professional Category of the National Audubon Photography Awards (2018) and Nature’s Best Backyard Professional Category (2020). His imagery is grounded in a deep commitment to ethical wildlife photography, opposed to baited, called in, or staged images—always captured with respect for the subject and its environment. As a conservation visual storyteller, Donald uses his lens to elevate awareness, advocate for habitat protection, and inspire a connection between people and the natural world. Through workshops, public talks, and guided tours, he empowers others to see and photograph with purpose. His work is as much about telling stories as it is about creating powerful, lasting images.
See Donald’s work on his photography website: www.donaldquintana.com3 attendees
Past events
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