The unofficial kick-off to summer and one heck of an Epic Arts Party! Each year Oakdale Park is transformed into a space where one's creativity has the potential to flourish. For the past 13 years, I've had the opportunity to be the eyes of the Smoky Hill River Festival. As I roam the park, I am provided with unique views of the festival. Maybe it’s through the eyes of a musician looking out over the crowd or a roving artist interacting with a group of teens. While moments like these are in abundance throughout the festival, they can be easily missed. In my early years covering the festival, I was burdened by expectations and felt I needed to capture it all. I often found myself rushing from stage to stage, rapidly firing my camera. However, the photos rarely told the story of the festival; I was merely documenting moments in time. It wasn't until I slowed down, stopped, and observed that my photos improved. The next time you’re out with a camera (even your phone), take a pause. I encourage you to study your subject, how they react to a given situation, or how the light falls onto the landscape. Think of how you can go from a simple photograph to telling your subject's story.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tcksphoto/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063544209657

Website: https://tannercolvin.smugmug.com/

See Tanner’s work in person on Friday, August 2, at Peaceful Body Wellness Retreat, 148 S. Santa Fe Ave, Salina, KS.