North American Nature Photography Association North Texas Chapter: Meetup - Dallas

Big Springs is one of the crown jewels of the Great Trinity Forest and is NOT GENERALLY OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.

When:

We will have two sessions 

May 31, Sunrise (6am) to 10am.

May 3, 5pm to Sunset.

Make one or both  (RSVP separately for each session).

Note: The morning session is listed at 7am on Meetup because that is the earliest time it allows in their system. Someone will be there by 6am before the sunrise, and people are welcome to arrive before 7am if they want to photograph the sunrise.

About Big Spring

Big Spring is a natural free flowing spring that has supported life in the immediate area for 700+ years. Legend has it, that Sam Houston stopped there once, and the area was home to many of Dallas's pioneering families, including its longtime stewards, the amazing Zada and Bill Pemberton. 

The springs are beautiful, and they feed a lovely little wetland of unique plants and flowers and insects, including many dragonflies. The surrounding forest is dense and lovely and filled with birds, including barred owls, painted buntings and more. And there is a huge (HUGE) field of clasping coneflowers nearby we hope will be in full bloom, providing you with an amazing photo opportunity.  

We will be joined by two of the people responsible for saving these precious springs, Ben Sandifer and Tim Dalbey. Ben is a master photographer and explorer who will be there to help, and Tim is an expert on the archaeology and natural history of the area. 

Big Spring Links

For more info on Big Springs, check out the Dallas Trinity Trails Blog (probably the best blog on exploring and discovering the Great Trinity Forest around) and these links from master naturalist Richard Grayson about Big Springs.

Equipment 

Long lens for birds, dragonflies and even flowers. Macro for sure. Wide angle for sure. Tripod (always). Flash and reflectors if you have them.

Techniques

I will give tutorials on using your flash, reflectors and diffusers, for those interested.

Logistics

Parking is at the home of Zada and Bill Pemberton, 911 Pemberton Hill Road. We will put small signs up directing you where to park. Enter and follow the signs down the hill to the Springs where you will see one of us.

Clothing 

I would definitely wear long pants and socks and shoes you don't mind getting wet. Bring bug spray and sun protection.