Rick Sammon

Photographer, Musician, Author, Teacher

Award-winning photographer Rick Sammon loves his day job. A tireless, prolific and inspirational image-maker, Rick, called by some “The Godfather of Photography,” is one of the most active photographers on the planet – dividing his time between creating images, leading photo workshops, and making personal appearances. Rick’s enthusiasm for digital imaging is contagious. He is a man on a mission – a mission to make digital photography fun, creative, exciting and rewarding for others.

A natural teacher, Rick enjoys sharing his photographs and providing practical how-to advice to a wide audience of photo enthusiasts through his blog, books, how-to videos, a podcast and an expanding following on social media.

Rick is also a guest lecturer on Poseidon Expeditions. His most recent adventure with Poseidon was to the High Arctic.

Speaking of being a natural teacher, whenever possible, Rick teaches guitar - and plays with musicians of all ages. Here's a shot of a jam at Rick's house. "It's so cool playing with young musicians," Rick says. "Keeps one young at heart." Need a bass player? Need a rhythm guitar player?

Rick started his professional photography career as an underwater photographer, producing six underwater books and leading scuba diving expeditions to the seven seas and to Lake Baikal, Siberia - the largest and deepest lake in the world.

He easily transitioned into travel, landscape, wildlife, cultural and nature photography. Rick’s images, from his travels to more than 100 countries, have been published in numerous newspapers and magazines, and have been featured in his 42 books, including the popular Rick Sammon’s Exploring the Light, and in this on-line training classes.

In recognition of his talent and influence, Rick has been named a Canon Explorer of Light. Rick is also an instructor on KelbyOne, where he shares his knowledge – though almot 30 classes – about light and composition.

While Rick describes himself as “evolving,” he hesitates to categorize his work. “I’m an A-to-Z type of photographer. I do it all – and I enjoy the freedom of not specializing.”

With nearly 40 years of experience, this self-taught photographer has many accomplishments – and many more anticipated for the road ahead. As Rick suggests, “When you are through changing, you are through.”