CAPTURE YOUR PASSION… THROUGH THE LENS S L O W L Y

It’s a full house at Winchester’s Griffin Museum of Photography as renowned Argentine photographer, teacher, and documentary filmmaker, Ossian Lindholm details his secrets for capturing  breathtaking images of the natural world leading group treks atop mountains, through streams and over rambling landscapes across the globe.  Recent years have found him also navigating New England’s rich outdoor photo opportunities with Boston-based Travel Vision.  Given the attendance at this Griffin Museum lecture, it seems his agenda has captivated many.  Director and Founder Lauren Hefferon launched this arm of her company with the philosophy of using the camera as a way to slow down and see the world.  “As with our Ciclismo Classico bike tours, it is not about the bicycle but rather the experience that the bike allows you to have…  With these photography excursions we are now producing, it’s not about the camera or taking a picture but the experience one has when they stop and let the special moment or place take them.”

“Keep close to nature’s heart… and break clear away, once in awhile, and climb a mountain or spend a week in the woods. Wash your spirit clean.”  So advised the naturalist John Muir long ago.

From Argentina to to the Galapogos to now right here at home, Travel Vision’s treks offer a host of such cleansing opportunities.  Total immersion in this natural world, one that is “truly primeval” is what Ms. Hefferon and her team pride themselves on delivering.  On their Galapagos trip  folks can expect to share the beach with lizards and penguins while strollingbright white sandy beaches framed by crystal-clear aqua waters.  And that would be day one.  Later in the week might find you enjoying world-class snorkeling at Kicker Rock.

Mr. Lindholm is highly respected in photography circles for his dedication to capturing, conserving, and sustaining the landscape, nature and culture of Argentina, and for 2017, the company’s brings back one of their most popular trips – a trek through the wildlife and landscapes of Patagonia under his guidance.  A breathtaking blend of photography and hiking in Argentina and Chile, this nine day adventure begins at El Calafate, gateway to the drama of ice, mountain, and water of Los Glaciares National Park.  Lindholm refers to it as the “journey of a lifetime”.  “We’ll see nature at its most energetic at the Perito Moreno Glacier, which surges bright-and-white into the aquamarine waters of Lago Argentino, and also hike among splintered Andean spires and discover the bizarre forms of ancient petrified forests.  I guarantee that heart and mind, body and soul will be expanded and rejuvenated. What your lens has framed, and your eye has captured, will now be fixed in your mindâallowing the magic of this place to remain with you forever more.”

Shifting gears slightly, Travel Vision’s Argentina Vision and Vine Photo Tour is currently the world’s only photography tour paired with an exploration of the high-altitude wines of Northwest Argentina. Referred to as a “magical journey”, the tour is again led hands-on by Mr. Lindholm often with Ms. Hefferon at his side.  In addition to exploring the world’s highest vineyard, at Colome, this particular expedition also tours the the town of Cachi and then winds to Los Cardones National Park and the Quebrada de Humahuaca.  With all of the company’s tours, the guides build in wandering time and go to great lengths to emphasize the art of slowing down with their exclusive land and sea itinerary.

Closer to home, Travel Vision continues to lead New England expeditions which capture the allure and beauty of Maine’s coast as well as the woods further north in their full autumn splendor.  Fabulous guides, signature itineraries, average group sizes of fourteen, world class food and even language lessons… regardless of the destination.  Since 1988, under Ms. Hefferon’s leadership, the Travel Vision/Ciclismo team has been passionate about producing transformative experiences for their guests.  “Unlike most travel options, photography tours allow for a slow, deep dive into the spirit of a place. It expands the sensory experience as guests move more leisurely, but with greater intimacy and intensity — I call it mindful travel.”  Time for a refresh or that once in a lifetime creative immersion? Visit the company’s website for their full itinerary, or follow them on Facebook.