In 2018, Bob Wadsworth, a Board member of Black Hills Audubon Society was contacted by Dennis Plank about bequeathing his bird photo collection to BHAS. A discussion ensued and Dennis was asked if he would be willing to donate his photos now, so that BHAS could work with him to develop a gallery. He agreed to this and along with his photo collection, Dennis agreed to offer some basic birding photography tips, and an article about taxonomy to help our volunteers in their classroom presentations.
Dennis remembers his interest in photography beginning when he was growing up and continuing during his service in the US Navy. He came to enjoy nature photography, especially taking photos of flowers and plants. It was after meeting his wife, who is an avid birder, that he transitioned to mainly bird photography in 2008.
Although Dennis has travelled to Florida, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico, this collection consists of mainly Pacific Northwest birds. One of his favorite spots to take photos is on his prairie property. He has built a drip pond and a blind where he can watch bird activity all year around. The pond draws an amazing variety of birds.
Dennis hopes that his photos give others the same enjoyment, and appreciation of nature that he receives from his pursuit. He also hopes that it may inspire young folks go into ecological or conservation fields of study, and pursue amateur or professional bird photography.