I am passionate about the art of photography. To me, good photography feeds the soul. It captures the essence of a person, relationship, animal, or scene. It has the power to educate and inspire; touch hearts; change lives; and remind us of the beauty that surrounds us in every moment.

My photography comes from the heart. I love moments that have aliveness and magic in them. Whether it’s beautiful scenery; a wild animal; a special ceremony or event; someone’s treasured animal companion; or people just going about their daily lives—I love capturing those moments when the essence shines through.

I have been doing nature photography, pet photography, event photography, portraits, and candid shots for many years. Back in the 1980s, I became the unofficial photographer for the Winnemem Wintu tribe. I fulfilled that role for over a decade, and I still document ceremonies and events from time to time. I have had the privilege of photographing tribal elders, ceremonies, dances, and weddings, and have enjoyed being able to see the “cute little kids” grow up and have children of their own. It is satisfying to know that my photographs have supported tribal efforts to protect their sacred grounds and traditions.

My photography has been published or exhibited by places and organizations such as the U.S. Forest Service, the National Radio Project, the Sacred Land Film Project, the Winnemem Wintu Tribe, the Barkley Pet Hotel & Day Spa, Global Village School, Paths of Learning magazine, and several Southern California publications and non-profit organizations such as the Ojai Music Festival, the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, and the Ojai Valley Green Coalition.

Photo Galleries:

Portraits as Portals: An Invitation - intimate portraits of wild animals that offer a chance to see and experience the animal world in a new way. These images are from my short film presentation, which is a multi-sensory experience designed as an opportunity for reflection; to step out of linear time, go inward, and connect with that ancient way of knowing and being that is still very much a part of who we all are.

Pet Photography - portraits of some of Ojai's four-legged residents

Raptor Photography – portraits of some of the many eagles, hawks, and owls rescued by the Ojai Raptor Center

Southern California Sunsets - photographs of some spectacular Ventura County and Santa Barbara area sunsets

Nature Photography - flowers, plants, beach scenes, and a nice-looking bug or two...

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Contact: Send an e-mail or call (805) 208-2951

© Sally Carless, 2010, 2011. All Rights Reserved

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