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 (1)
See all- Visual Storytelling: Nature Through Your Lens at Prairiewoods (paid event)Prairiewoods, Hiawatha, IA$135.00
Discover the Power of Visual Storytelling with Donald Quintana
Join professional nature and wildlife photographer Donald Quintana for an immersive, hands-on workshop on the art of conservation visual storytelling—hosted at Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center (120 East Boyson Road, Hiawatha).Date: June 28th 8am-5pm
Cost: $135 (commuter) or $205 (includes Friday night lodging)Through a blend of guided field photography, group discussion, and creative exercises, you'll learn how to capture the seven essential images that bring stories to life and leave a lasting impact. Whether you're using a professional DSLR or a smartphone, this workshop is designed for photographers, content creators, and visual storytellers of all experience levels.
Go beyond simple snapshots. Create images that inspire, connect, and captivate.
About Donald Quintana
Donald is a conservation visual storyteller and award-winning photographer, formerly based in Los Osos, California, now residing in Cedar Rapids. A self-taught photographer with a background in art and design, his work blends artistic vision with a deep reverence for the natural world. Donald has been recognized by organizations including Audubon, Nature’s Best Photography, and the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA), where his work has been published in Expressions and featured in books, magazines, and conservation media. He is a certified California Naturalist and an active mentor in the nature photography community.Ready to register?
Click here: https://pw.retreatportal.com/calendar/event?programcode=25PEA30977
For questions, visit www.Prairiewoods.org or call 319-395-6700.
You can find more of Donalds work at: https://donaldquintana.com/DQNWP/
or find him on Flickr at: https://www.flickr.com/photos/donaldquintana/with/48359530611
or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/donald.quintana.12/
