Conversations with Linda Nickell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Nickell.

Linda, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
A camera has been in my hand since I was a teenager. I used it to document the fun things that I was doing with my family, friends, and especially when I traveled. Each snapshot served as a souvenir to the highlights of my life.

In 2016, I was invited to join a group of photographers in the Smoky Mountains for a long weekend dedicated to photography. Before that weekend, I had never used a tripod other than as a walking stick; I didn’t know what a filter was much less how to use one; I had never considered using a lens other than the one that came with my camera; and I had never stayed in “manual” mode for longer than a few minutes…

Over the course of the weekend, I spent some one-on-one time with several of the photographers and created some images that were so much better than the work that I had been producing. I learned the importance of composition; how to play with light; how to use post-processing software to enhance my images; and more importantly how to create an image that tells a story. All of this was new to me and I was hooked.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
As a nature and landscape photographer, the early morning and late-night hours to catch the “good” light are a struggle but once I see the image on the back of my camera, it is worth every minute of lost sleep or the hundreds of mosquito bites that itch for weeks.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In the last couple of years, I’ve been recognized as a “best of” landscape photographer which has driven print sales; commercial installations; and publication opportunities… As a Texas-based photographer, I’m super lucky to have such a big and diverse playground. I spend most weekends on the road to explore different parts of the state. My favorite spots are usually off the beaten track but I enjoy our state parks and wildlife refuges too. As the seasons change so does the landscape and the opportunities to capture the essence of a pasture full of wildflowers are just as exciting as wading knee-deep into the waters of the Gulf to fill my lens with a brilliant sunrise.

At the beginning of the pandemic, I started hosting a photography webinar called the “Happiness Hour” — a weekly program where I introduce a new photographer to a live audience via Zoom. My guests have included a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner; the Chief Photographer to the President of the United States; Emmy award-winning photographers; National Geographic contributors; professional photographers that lead workshops; and even photographers that I’ve discovered in our audience that are just starting out. My goal has always been focused on helping photographers to connect, inspire, and create.

This summer, I co-authored an e-book titled “Composition: 15 Photography Tips to Creating Captivating Images.” Our goal with this book was to help others learn the basics of composition and it was a great opportunity to collaborate with another photographer.

As a frequent user of Instagram, I curate several feature pages to support and encourage other photographers to get their photos off of their computers and share their work. @inspire_texas_now focuses on sharing the beauty of Texas and photographers that capture this fascinating state from every angle. But the page I’m most proud of is @texasthroughherlens which features female photographers and their views of Texas. There are some ugly parts of social media but those moments when you connect with a stranger over a photograph are priceless.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck — plays a huge role in my life. Every photo I make isn’t because I’m talented or skilled it’s because something or someone interesting has crossed my path. Beginning with the group of photographers I met in the Smokies. If I hadn’t met them, I wouldn’t be as driven as I am in this art form. I would have continued snapping photos but not creating the work I’m proud to sell or put my signature on.

Contact Info:

• Email: coznlinda@gmail.com
• Website: lindanickell.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coznlinda/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoDLIgv_uVPPy1SHCfKyBsw