Matthew

The road depicted in the adjacent image is a perfect representation of the experiences I have had while studying abroad with the Edge of the Outback Crew.  It is not the smoothest thing in the world; full of bumps, dips and stones.  It is not the straightest thing in the world; full of crests and curves.  However, when one is studying abroad in a country as awe inspiring as Australia the last thing they want to do is glide through on the straight and narrow.  I am forever indebted to all those who work to make this program as exhilarating as it is.  Thank you.

Flinders Ranges

Leslie

The history in Australia is mind-boggling and experiencing it has really broadened my horizon. After visiting all these beautiful places and learning all the traditions and beliefs of the Aboriginal people, I feel immersed in this culture. Standing on the sand dunes of Mungo I felt a sense of freedom as the wind blew through my hair and at the point I had the “this is why I’m here” feeling. I have done things here I never imagined I would do and I have met people I will never forget.

Mungo

Leigh

I knew that coming to Australia would be one of the most exciting adventures I have ever embarked on.  I was prepared for my perspective and experiences to be broadened and enhanced.  What I was not prepared for was to have my life positively changed forever.  The land, the people, the culture, and the passion in each person I met motivated me in a way that I have seldom felt before.  My drive for life and my love for living each journey to its fullest are rejuvenated.

There is this feeling that comes over you sometimes.  It’s hard to explain but it is this feeling of complete peace and utter content.  It is when your heart flutters a little and your mind entertains all your dreams in the most real and tangible way you have ever known.  I had this overwhelming and intense emotion come over me countless times during this program.  I felt it when the instructors talked, when Peter shared, while hiking and even while driving between locations.  We each made this dream a reality.  Each one of us juggled finances and schedules in an economically challenging time to come to this Outback country.  We were a diverse group and it made for a unique and unforgettable opportunity.  This experience was worth every second of preparation.

The people involved with this program are absolutely the most incredible instructors I have ever encountered.  This was exactly the learning style I needed for everything came to make sense to me.  Aspects of photography where I have struggled to gain understanding are now crystal clear.  My enthusiasm for the photography profession is ignited like never before and I’m on fire to go home and continue.  Everyday the way an instructor acted or spoke blew my mind.  The people involved in this program have truly mastered the art of balancing professionalism with fun.  It’s hard to find one professor back home who grasps how much more effective this is, but everyone here seems to fully embrace it.  I feel a connection with everyone involved and I know this is a part of my life I will never forget.

Sacred Canyon

Kim

What Would Shayne Do?

 

Though this journey has been filled with fun and laughter with new friends, I have spent much time learning and mastering camera techniques. ­­The crash course in camera usage, correct shooting techniques, and Photoshop skills has been an amazing learning experience. The strong and differing opinions of our instructors, Rachel and Shayne, let us see how the art world really works. As a group we have adopted a slogan: “What Would Shayne Do?” When taking a picture we need to keep in mind our shutter speed, aperture, ISO, subject matter, lighting, etc. Instead of thinking about all these things just ask yourself… What Would Shayne Do?

Mungo

Jazmin

As my portfolio, exhibition piece, much of my visual journal, and the fresh tattoo ink in my back would suggest, our guide Peter Peterson has been a huge highlight for me along this wonderful journey. His crazy infectious smile, spirit, energy, and stories have inspired me immensely. He was without a doubt a primary catalyst in the bonding of our group, from getting us to sing around the campfire to facilitating a monumental dance celebration. My favorite moments though were in getting to see his deeper side – hearing him speak about the spirit bird, watching him work on the beautiful drawings in each of our journals, and walking quietly beside him through the woods.

I have been immensely impressed by the knowledge, patience, warmth, generosity, and humor of everyone involved in this experience.  I know I would not have enjoyed it nearly as much without them. Despite the fact that I wish I could stay here a bit longer with my quirky EOTO family, I am eagerly looking forward to heading home and applying my shiny new photography skills. I’ll see you again soon, Australia!

Peter

Ida

Morjens!

 

This trip has been an amazing experience to me, all these people I have met and everything we have done. Neil when he put the wrong gas in the truck and all those really cool nights in the Flinders Ranges with singing around the fire. When we celebrated the 4^th of July with all the food that we made. All this has made every one of us really good friends, and I hope we are all are going to keep in touch.

This picture isn’t sharp at all, but it describe very good our friendship.

Gab

If you are ever lucky enough to become a part of this wildly interesting ride, remember these things:

-The bus rides, though long and tedious, are totally worth it. Occupy yourself by learning how to peel a mandarin in one piece, and talking to the bus driver to keep him awake/sane.

-Even if you know nothing about photography, you will learn, and be very proud of yourself.

-When given the option to climb a mountain…climb the dang thing!

-Walk around and explore everything. A random walk through Mildura with the boyfriend turned into a photo shoot, which resulted in this photo, and even some portfolio & exhibition shots.

-The best thing you can do is keep your mind wide open, and frequently check up on it, as to not leave anything or anyone out.

-Respect. Respect everyone and everything. I mean it.

Love and dead horse,

Gab

Mildura