Photography in Belize

I didnt own a camera when i lived in the US.  Of course, that was loooong before smartphones, iphones, or cell phones for that matter.

Since living in Belize, i’ve realized, like everyone who comes to Belize, – this is a Photoshoot.  Photography in Belize is a fun pass-time, and a very popular hobby.  The entire country is one gigantic photo shoot, and even non-photographers like me get into the action.  Novices and experts agree – taking photos in Belize is fricken awesome.

I was graciously given a Canon EOS 20D, which i promptly abused by using a sock as a lens cover and tossing it in my purse.  The very generous friend who gave it to me just about had a heart attack.  I’ve since replaced the lens twice, but have managed to keep it in a proper bag.   I would love to take classes on how to use the thing, as i’m not great at learning from a manual.

I go through a regular digital camera about every six months.  Whether broken, stolen, or just up and died, i go through them quickly.  While “point and shoots” are nice, i do always wish i had my “good camera” with me when i get/see a great shot.  You simply do not leave home, when home is in belize, without a camera of some sort.  You never know what you are going to see!

In keeping with this “Living in a PhotoShoot” theory, i’ve also noticed several articles on the web recently about taking photo’s in Belize.  Popphoto.com did a whole spread on “Photography in Belize”  a few weeks back.  Great shots, worth a view for sure.

As a destination management consultant specializing in weddings, i deal with all the photographers in Belize.  And i have to say, each one has a very specific style, and i like each one for different things.  Some are amazing at capturing Belize’s rich culture, others it’s romance, still others it’s nature and life.

Tony Rath is a local Belize Photographer who is simply amazing.  I adore his work with nature and culture, and is by far the best underwater photographer of all.  His work is important as he captures life, animal life, in a way that makes it very relate-able.  This is impactful as many of the creatures are endangered.

Caves Branch is a resort run by a very interesting fellow, Ian Anderson.  They do some pretty cool stuff out there, and it’s a pretty cool place.  I found this awesome little workshop for them.  It’s a “Insect Photography Workshop”.  I love insect photography even though i loathe insects.  They are not scary at all when it’s just a photo, and i get to look and gawk and learn without the heebie jeebies.

Another great nature photographer (who also does some beautiful wedding photography, but that’s for another blog) is Jose Luis Zapata.    I love his bugs 🙂