Journal of Light: The Visual Diary of a Florida Nature Photographer

I have known of John Moran's photographic work since I was a student in Gainesville, working in local camera shops. That was 20+ years ago now. Of all of the Florida imagery out there, John manages to present his own unique vision of his Florida. His love of these places and creatures shines through in a way most photographers dream of achieving. In his book, he offers insight into his photography techniques, and the challenges he faces capturing each image.

This is the most beautiful visual book regarding Florida I've seen on the market. The photography, by Jon Moran, is world class. Florida is my home and when I want to send information and want to give a glimpse of this lovely state that I live in, to friends around the world, this is the book that I send to them. Everyone has appreciated the historical notes, the factual information about the places where the pictures were taken, and the visual memories of the authentic natural Florida, unfortunately now not always seen by visitors.

I, too, am a Florida nature photographer: but my case is far different, as I'm a student with a limited budget and have only been shooting for two years. This book is especially close to my heart and experience, because, like Mr. Moran, I delight in travelling North and Central Florida in search of that perfect shot--it was great to turn the pages of a beautiful, glossy *professional* book and see all my old haunts, compare my experiences with Mr. Moran's (his passion for the state and the art is so evident), and, when I go back home to Colorado in a month, have someone else's take on Florida's beauty with me. I'll never tire of looking at this book.

"For 20 years Moran has traveled the Sunshine State with his cameras, capturing natural Florida as it must have appeared to Ponce de Leon and other early strangers in paradise. Narrating a slide show of his remarkable collection of landscape photography, Moran reflects on his quest to capture the soul of one of the most photographed states in the country." (review from the Florida Humanities Council) Before moving to Florida, I only had a vague idea of its natural landscape gleaned from television documentaries on the Everglades. This book brings the wide range of Florida natural beauty into our living room. Enjoy!

The author shares with us not only his pictures, but how the capture was accomplished. Well done.