Interview with Photographer Nancy J. Locke (and giveaway!)

UPDATE: The winners of HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON are Dino Rubio and Playground Monitor. Please send your physical addresses to contests(AT)knightagency.net. Thanks to everyone who commented. Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Nancy J. Locke's inspiring photographs are the perfect accompaniment to New York Times bestselling author Cecil Murphey's words in the recent release, HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON (Harvest House, June 2010). Today, Nancy is stopping by to give some insight into the world of photography, sharing some images from her fabulous portfolio and giving away TWO books. Check the bottom of the post to find out how to win!

TKA: What is HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON about?

Nancy: We all have individual journeys in this life that include sparkling sunshine and dark storms. In HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON, Cecil Murphey illuminates Ecclesiastes 3 and the fact that we should allow our emotions to experience life to the fullest. If we are dancing, we should dance joyfully, if we are crying, we should mourn and not hold back. This gift book embraces the emotions of life and encourages us to trust God and reach out for His guidance as we experience our journeys on this earth.

TKA: What elements of composition were you looking for in deciding what images would work best for HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON?

Nancy: Having lived close to nature for eighteen years, the whispering leaves and soothing sound of the waves have become part of my spiritual connection with God. I see how much He cares for us through the gift of nature and I want others to experience the inspiration I am feeling when snapping photos and talking with God. The elements I look for are the ones God chooses for me to see when I have moments of enlightenment.

TKA: Why do you think photographs/art are just as inspiring and important to readers as the words on a page? How is the impact of imagery different from words?

Nancy: Photography encapsulates emotion. It’s an intimate connection that is shared with others. One glance at a photograph can speak volumes. The artist connects with his subject and his own soul, and the viewer connects with the artist and the emotions that he or she has experienced in the past and have been brought to light.

TKA: How did you get your start in photography?

Nancy: When in high school, I became co-editor of the high school newspaper which published in the small town newspaper. I spent much time with a camera and in the darkroom and loved it!

TKA: How long does it take you to get the perfect shot?

Nancy: Sometimes I’ll lift my camera over my head in the double-seated kayak and snap a photo of my husband who has been paddling me to the perfect shot along the lakeshore wilds, and when I arrive home I see how pale he looks. Other times the perfect shot lies seconds away. Knowing how the camera works and having the eye needed for composition are all it takes after reaching a location. Lighting is key too. I generally only snap photos in the early morning or evening hours.

Leave a comment to win a copy of HOPE AND COMFORT FOR EVERY SEASON. Two winners will be drawn randomly and announced in this post tomorrow morning. Good luck!

To learn more about Nancy J. Locke, visit www.NancyLocke.net.