Constance Mier hit the road in an RV for five months. Listen to her lifestyle, how to find photo spots and how she deals with workflow issues. If you have ever dreamed of the #vanlife as a nature photographer, check out this episode of The Understand Photography Show!
*Please scroll to the bottom of the post for more images from our guest.*
Episode 169
Fine Art Nature Photography on the Road
with Constance Mier
“Waking up somewhere new, in a beautiful location, becomes so addicting that you don’t think about all the other stuff.”
Planning
- RV camping requires reservations in advance. National Parks fill up fast.
- Boondocking - camping without electric or water hookup.
- Harvest Host - membership service offering overnight parking at rural points of interest like farms, breweries, wineries or museums.
- Research routes and locations to make sure they are accessible by RV.
- Photography locations
- Google Earth, Instagram and YouTube
- Contact photographers that offer tours and workshops in those areas.
- Photographers met on the road can be a good resource for new locations.
“Even after all the research, it was in the unexpected locations that I ended up getting my best shots.”
Expenses
- Campgrounds with hookups can be $35-40 per night.
- Average campground expense is around $1000 per month.
- If you plan to stay in one location for a month at a time, they can be as low as $400-500 per month.
- Fuel expenses vary by state.
- Regular maintenance for RV and other vehicles.
- Emergency maintenance.
- Tolls.
“Being in unfamiliar territory is challenging and stimulating and helps you tap into your creativity.”
Possible Difficulties
Connectivity Issues
- Campgrounds have WiFi but uploading files, streaming video, backing up files to the cloud and updating software may be difficult in remote locations.
Unexpected breakdowns and repairs
- Things break. You have to be on top of it and learn to repair some things on your own.
Tips
- Go in with your eyes open and try to figure out ways to get around some of the costs.
- Always have an exit strategy. Think about the what-ifs.
- Keep camera gear safely stored - and locked - in Pelican Cases.
- Store hard drives for back-ups in a fire-proof safe.
- Make sure everything is insured.
Finding Constance
Facebook - Constance Mier Photography from a Canoe
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