MEET OLYMPUS VISIONARY RALPH LEE HOKPINS
WHO ARE YOU?
I didn’t set out in life to be a photographer. I grew up on New York’s Long Island and, after seeing the Grand Canyon on a summer vacation when I was 12, my dream was to travel. Luckily, I discovered geology and wound up studying rocks in the Grand Canyon. Today I’m based in Charlotte, North Carolina and specialize in travel, wildlife, and conservation photography working on expeditions to the world’s wild places with Lindblad Expeditions, National Geographic, and Natural Habitat Adventures.
WHEN DID YOU REALIZE YOU WERE A PHOTOGRAPHER?
I cut my teeth as a landscape photographer while living in southern Utah shooting 4 X 5 view cameras with the goal of being published in Arizona Highways magazine, which I accomplished. Being self-taught, I studied the work of the master landscape photographers, namely Ansel Adams, Elliott Porter, and Phillip Hyde. My first image with National Geographic was published in a book on the Grand Canyon. Today I’m especially interested documentary and expedition photography as I find myself on expeditions to the wild and remote corners of the world.
INTRODUCING OLYMPUS
How did you get started with the Olympus system?
My colleague at National Geographic, Jay Dickman, was an early convert to Olympus and tried to convince me early on. I wasn’t ready. Now more that 5 years later, I’m ready to cut down the size and weight of what I carry. My travels are taking me to Africa, so weight is an issue. But in the end, it was the in-camera technology, image stabilization, and sharp optics of the Olympus system that sold me.
What’s your go-to Olympus setup ?
In my work I carry 3 bodies, the E-M1X and two E-M1 Mark III bodies, and a full assortment of lenses. My go-to is the M.Zuiko 12-100mm F4.0 IS PRO for portraits and landscape but love working with the M.Zuiko 40-150mm F2.8 PRO paired with the MC-14 or MC-20 extenders for wildlife situations.
How does Olympus help you do your job?
Live capture is a game changer and being able to hand hold out to 800mm is absolutely amazing.
TIPS FOR OTHER BUDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS AND OTHER PRO PHOTOGRAPHERS
In my travels I often meet and work with young photographers. I’m very interested in mentoring the next generation. It all starts with passion. Only by discovering their true passion will aspiring photographers be willing to do what it takes to learn the craft, discover their unique style, and get their work out there. The best tip I can give to both aspiring and current pros is to live life as a photographer, adopt a meaningful project, and share the story with others who care.
