Ready for am excellent read about nature / wildlife photography? (the images in this case are NOT what is important)

I originally learned about the amazing journey of Hidehiro Otake via an article in Perfect Duluth Day. Knowing essentially nothing about nature, let alone wilderness, Otake was inspired by a dream about wolves and came upon Jim Brandenburg‘s book, Brother Wolf. For most of us, the story might end at this point, but Otake who had recently finished school was dissatisfied with a potential life in urban Japan. Knowing nothing about wilderness or photography, but wanting to experience “brother wolf” and learn photography, he bought an airline ticket from Tokyo to Minneapolis. Otake’s goal was to reach Ely and the Northwoods and meet Jim Brandenburg. Only there were a few problems; Jim Brandenburg was not expecting Otake (or even aware he existed), nor was there any means of reaching Ely via public transportation (let alone Brandenburg’s remote cabin on the edge of the BWCA).

Remember I said it was an amazing journey? Otake eventually met Brandenburg, started a lifelong friendship and lived on his land near Ely for a few months. In addition, he was introduced and became friends with Will Steger, the famous Ely based explorer who has trekked to both poles by dogsled. Years later Hidehiro Otake is one of the best Japanese nature photographers.

• Read the five part story of Otake’s  journey. (fascinating read!!!)
  • Facebook Site for Hidehiro Otake (official)
  • National Geographic Japan (in Japanese … just enjoy the images!)

As a fyi, Otake does not have a large presence in North America (understandable), but is well known in Japan. I felt this blog post expanded our horizons. Folks should really read Otake’s five part story. You will learn that most anything is possible if you follow your dreams! When I learned that one of Otake’s first published works was a young children’s piece, I just had to reach out to the gentleman! We are now in contact.