NEWS: Rich Clarkson, Friend & Mentor – NPR

American Track legend Jim Ryun trains at Great Sand Dunes National Park, CO. ©Rich Clarkson (A signed print of the image above hangs proudly in my home)

No summary of photography in America is complete without the name Rich Clarkson. A prolific photographer from the early days of Sports Illustrated and the former Director of Photography for National Geographic, Rich has certainly left his mark on the printed pages of history. Though, possibly more storied than his own career, are those that he helped to grow. An impressive list of award winning photographers including Jim Richardson, David Alan Harvey, Brian Lanker and Chris Johns, to name a few, point to Rich as their inspiration and mentor. I feel very honored to be among those that have benefited from his experience, wisdom and generosity. Over almost the last decade, I've had the opportunity to work alongside Rich and his staff, teaching some of the workshops offered by Rich Clarkson and Associates.

As part of their ongoing series, The Picture Show, NPR joined a reunion, assembled in Rich's honor, of former journalists from the Topeka Capital-Journal. This is where it all started for Rich and so many others under his guidance. Tales from these early days are but a few in his mental archive. His time and experience have helped him to become one of the finest story tellers in the industry. Whether before a large crowd in an auditorium, or leading court at a bar with martini in hand, Rich always commands attention.

Don't miss your own opportunity to study with one of the true legends of the craft. Join Rich and the rest of the staff at the Adventure Photography Workshop, September 26 – October 1, 2010 in Jackson Hole, WY. More details to come!