Picture title: Shaking Off The Cold © Jeffrey Kauffman | NPOTY 2023 Runner-up | Category Mammals
Behind the Lens: Jeffrey Kauffman
…What inspires you to photograph? Are there specific themes, locations, or people that particularly intrigue you?
“About six or seven years ago, I began photographing American Bald Eagles near my home in Maryland, and that’s when my passion for photography took off. At the time, I didn’t know much about photography, but my curiosity drove me to learn more….
Name: Jeffrey Kauffman
Age: 55
Occupation: Fulltime commercial refrigeration technician
Current residence: Lancaster, Pennsylvania USA
Social media: Facebook – Instagram
Behind the Lens: Jeffrey Kauffman
What inspires you to photograph? Are there specific themes, locations, or people that particularly intrigue you?
“About six or seven years ago, I began photographing American Bald Eagles near my home in Maryland, and that’s when my passion for photography took off. At the time, I didn’t know much about photography, but my curiosity drove me to learn more.
Over the years, I gradually invested in various types of photography equipment. Many photographers frequented the same eagle spot, and they served as inspiration for me. Conversations with them and their guidance motivated and educated me. However, the diversity of advice sometimes left me feeling overwhelmed. After all, not everyone had the same approach to photography.
“Making A Splash” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“Red-tailed Hawk” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“When I was taking courses, Tin Man Lee recommended a list of organizations to explore, and NPOTY was one of them. Last year, I attended the Nature Talks Festival, and I was truly impressed by their mission and values. It was also the first time I had the chance to meet Tin Man Lee in person, which was a fantastic experience.”
Why did you think your submitted photo could be the contender for NPOTY? Can you tell us the story behind your submitted photo? What makes this photo special to you?
“After every trip, I review my photos and select my favorites. Among them, there’s one that stands out as my all-time personal favorite. It captures a unique moment, one that I’ve never encountered before. Everything aligned perfectly: the experience, the setting, and the camera equipment.
Last year in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada, during my first polar bear photography trip, a sudden blizzard trapped us, canceling all flights home. Just when worry crept in, our guides spotted a bear along the Hudson Bay coast. The urgency to catch a glimpse of the majestic creature overshadowed any concern about our delayed departure.
“Polar Bear” © Jeffrey Kauffman
Could you share some of your other favorite photos with us that you are proud of? Or a specific moment when a photo evoked a powerful emotion in you while taking it?
“One of the most captivating wildlife experiences I’ve had was observing and photographing a family of Northern Flickers that decided to nest right next to our home during the COVID lockdown. From the moment they began constructing their nest in a nearby tree, to witnessing their mating rituals, the hatching of their chicks, and finally their fledging. It was a remarkable journey that unfolded over several months. Over four to five months, I documented their journey, which kept us captivated and almost made us forget about TV!
“Northern Flicker” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“Battle of Evermore” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“Northern Flicker” ©Jeffrey Kauffman
“Crafting my own style has been a gradual process. With each passing year, I find myself improving organically. In wildlife photography, adaptability is crucial. I’ve abandoned the tripod in favor of more agile techniques, like using my toe as a makeshift stabilizer to capture shots at creek level. It took some time to get the hang of it, but now it’s become an integral part of my unique approach.”
What challenges do you (often) encounter while photographing and how do you deal with them?
“Beforehand, I prepare for potential challenges, including mastering photography in various weather conditions. I practice different camera settings at home and study photographers’ techniques on YouTube to minimize surprises. On location, I envision scenes and anticipate the best angles for captivating shots. Though the anticipated action doesn’t materialize most of the times, I remain hopeful for that perfect shot I’ve envisioned.”
“Tundra Swan” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“I’m all about keeping it real in post-processing. In Capture One, I take a less-is-more approach, steering clear of fancy filters and letting my manual photography skills shine through. Sure, I’ll tweak things a bit internally to enhance the image, but I’m selective about it. After all, a little patience goes a long way. I like to let the photo marinate for a bit before giving it the final polish, sometimes letting it simmer for a couple of weeks until it’s just right. It’s like cooking up the perfect shot, with a dash of patience and a sprinkle of perfectionism!”
“Cormorant with fish” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“My encounters with the Northern Flickers stand out as my most memorable wildlife experiences. I captured some truly unique images during that time. In fact, a few of them even won awards and were featured in various bird magazines. One even made it into the prestigious Bird Photographer of the Year book. Fun fact: Some folks weren’t fans of the wing’s curve effect, but hey, I’m happy with it. I hold a special attachment to this particular image, and the technique I used to achieve it will remain my little secret!”
“Northern Flickers” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“I don’t make a dime from photography. Instead, I donate my winnings to causes like national wildlife federations or let them use my photos for Christmas cards. Sure, earning some income from my photos would be great, but I know it’s tough as well. In the future, I might dip my toes into organizing one tour a year, or taking a small group out for some photo adventures or workshops. That’s a whole new ball game though, full-on business mode, complete with risks and a ton of work. With my business background, I know exactly what it would take. Plus, my second place in NPOTY might just give me that extra bit of fame!”
“Humpback Whales” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“What I never saw coming were the comments from people telling me how much my photos help them in their lives. I’ve heard from folks who are sick, depressed, or going through tough times. One guy with cancer even told me my photos helped him get through his rough days. I never imagined my work would have that kind of impact. Donating my winnings to conservation projects and letting my photos be used for good causes is heartwarming, especially knowing it brings so much positivity to others. That’s what keeps me going.”
“Bull Elk” © Jeffrey Kauffman
Jokingly, Jeffrey said: “Should we really focus on our differences? Some folks might get a bit upset if I reveal my brand loyalty to Sony!” I immediately suggested ending the interview right there when I found out he’s a Sony enthusiast, being a Nikon fan myself…
“When it comes to lenses, the 600mm is my go-to for wildlife photography, it’s my absolute favorite. I don’t bother with filters; they’re just not my thing. Landscape photography doesn’t really appeal to me. It’s the animals that intrigue me and inspire me to take photos.”
“Spirit Bear” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“Practice, practice, practice. There’s so much to photography, the technical stuff, and so much more to learn. When I was growing up, I played guitar, and it’s the same thing: you never reach a point where you know it all.”
“Coyote” © Jeffrey Kauffman
“Arctic Hare” © Jeffrey Kauffman
