Mitch Lathem, Freelance Nature Photographer

Growing up in North Georgia allowed me the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and become fascinated by nature’s beauty as well as experience the serenity the natural world has to offer. Beginning at a very early age, I have expressed an interest in nature as well as a love for the world around me. Still to this day, I find myself spending as much time as possible in a variety of outdoor activities.

Now, as I have grown older, I have also grown an even greater appreciation of nature’s splendor. Photography has become a way for me to express to others the passion that has been instilled within me. I am amazed by the beauty God has put in this world, and I find we often are so busy, that we fail to notice this blessing given to us. Photography has become my outlet from all the stress of day-to-day living as well as a way to capture the beauty found in our world. By slowing down to take a look at what God has put here for our enjoyment, I now find myself experiencing more pleasure from the simple things in life! It is my hope that I am passing some of this joy off to those who see my work.

I began shooting photography while at Young Harris College, which is in the North Georgia Mountains, about eight years ago. I am self taught and began taking pictures solely for my own personal enjoyment. Over several years, my hobby developed into something more. I became more interested in our environment and realized just how much we take our environment for granted. We get so busy that we do not take the time to look at the world around us and truly appreciate it for all that it is. I became burdened to share this with others. After much encouragement from my family and friends, advice from other photographers, and a drive to share my love for nature with others, I began to pursue my dream. More than anything, I want people to see my work and be inspired. I want them to see how magnificent our world is and to appreciate all that we have been given!