About Me

Hi, I’m Joel Whitlock! Originally from the small town of Cannon Beach, Oregon, I now make Austin, Texas my home. I’m married with three cats and a dog, and my photography interests are primarily related to nature and how we interact with the natural world. Growing up on the north Oregon coast instilled a deep love of the ocean and forests in me. I had to leave most of that behind when I moved to Texas, but I’ve definitely grown to love the hill country and the many birds that migrate through it each year as well. I wish the Texas trees were taller, and I miss the mountains, but there is something to be said for the wide open spaces and spectacular sunsets you get here.

I work during the week as a software engineer, and my free time is split between my passion for photography, cinema, music, video games, and travel. My prioritization of those interests has changed many times over the years, but photography is far and away my primary passion and creative outlet. Lately I have been incredibly inspired by other photographers that share their work via their own sites and social media, so I decided to make this site. I consider myself very fortunate to be able to pursue my passions and share them with you here. I am no expert but my goal is to inspire and/or inform others however I can; whether through my failures or successes, I hope that my images and stories will entertain you.

My Photo Kit

The following is my current photography kit. I have also used the Olympus 4/3 system in the past, prior to my (very gradual) switch to Canon. I plan on reviewing some of these items in the future via the blog, so if you see links on any items below that’s where the link will take you. I am not paid for any endorsements: all my gear was purchased by me, and any recommendations are based purely on my own experiences and opinions.

Other Essential Gear:
Kase Wolverine Magnetic ND and CPL Filters
Shimoda Designs Action X30 Backpack
Benro Rhino Carbon Fiber Tripod
Lexar Professional Memory Cards
Peak Design Capture & Straps

Editing Software:
Adobe Lightroom Classic & Photoshop
DxO PhotoLab 4

Camera Bodies:
Canon EOS R5
Canon EOS 80D

Favorite Lenses:
Canon EF 16-35mm F4L IS
Canon EF 70-200mm F4L IS
Canon EF 100mm F2.8L IS Macro
Canon EF 100-400mm F4.5-5.6L IS II
Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS
Canon EF 50mm 1.8 (the plastic fantastic)