Welcome! Join us in the Community Spotlight as we "spotlight" the Creative Team members.
Today we spotlight Connie Gill-Straubhaar
I was born and raised in southern Idaho, and I have spent my life close to home. My childhood was marked by a wonderful sense of freedom. I enjoyed riding my horse and exploring the vast desert that surrounded our home, which helped to cultivate my lifelong love of the outdoors. During those years I owned a Kodak Instamatic camera. With it, I captured countless moments, often taking random snapshots. Many of my pictures featured our dogs, cats, and horses, along with plenty of goofy family photos that still make me smile today.
Three years ago, I retired and found myself embracing the same childlike sense of freedom once again. These days, I love spending time working outside in my yard and exploring the natural beauty that surrounds me. Photography remains a passion, and I continue to document the world around me through my lens.
When I met with my financial advisor, he asked if I wanted to travel and how far I hoped to go. My response was simple: "I haven't seen all of the North and Intermountain West yet, so I guess that is where I will start". For now, my journey continues close to home, with new adventures still waiting to be discovered in the places I know best.
WHAT MAKE YOU START A PHOTO A DAY JOURNEY?
I have been participating in a 365 project since 2015 after discovering the Capture Your 365 group and was delighted when it transitioned into 365 Picture Today group. Although I didn't manage to complete a full year until 2024, I have kept at it, motivated by the enjoyment and camaraderie the group provides. It is a wonderful community, and I truly appreciate seeing the world through the eyes of fellow members each day.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE PROMPTS AND NOT SO FAVORITE?
Most of the prompts offered in the group are enjoyable to me. Even the "picture me" prompts, which are my least favorite have become easier over time as I continue to challenge myself. This growth has added another layer of fun and fulfillment to my daily photography routine.
WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO CAMERA GEAR?
I own Nikon gear. I have a Z8 with a Tamron 35-150, a 400 and a couple of macro lenses and some older DSLR lenses.
WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO PHOTOGRAPH?
I find inspiration for photography everywhere, but my favorite places are often close to home. I frequently capture images in my yard and on the dry farm where my husband works. Living near the high desert regions of Nevada, Utah, and Southern Idaho is a special privilege; these landscapes are my absolute favorites. Additionally, I feel fortunate to be within three hours of Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Stanley, the Idaho Wilderness, and many other remarkable areas in and around these destinations. Each outing offers a new opportunity to document and appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds me.
WHAT DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO KNOW ABOUT A 365 PROJECT?
I have learned so much from the 365 project and you can too. It has refined my skills, helped me to focus on some things I overlook when photographing and gives me opportunity to interact with amazing photographers that I consider friends.
WHERE CAN WE FIND YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
You can find me on FaceBook as Connie Gill-Straubhaar and at Connie Gill-Straubhaar Photography. I am also on instagram as @oldidahocowgirl and @high_desert_ramblings
