Vincent Ortolani - Masters of Environmental Science graduate student

Vincent Ortolani - Masters of Environmental Science graduate student

By Lamesha Green (Whetstone Staff Writer)

About 25 students and faculty came to see photographer Jay Fleming present a lecture and photo exhibit of his work at Wesley on Nov. 3 sponsored by Wesley Arts and Culture.

Similar to his father, former Wesley student Kevin Fleming, Jay Fleming, the 2004 EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) Wildlife of Wetlands Award winner, became a photographer at 14 while going out with his father.

“My dad inspired me in a lot of ways to be where I am today,” Fleming said. “I also spend a lot of time outdoors observing the environment looking for a raw quality image that’s good in subject and sharpness in order for everything to come together.

Fleming has traveled to Turkey, Costa Rica, and Yellowstone National Park to capture images.

“For every hour I spend taking pictures, I do research on its location and the planning of shots,” Fleming said. “Out of all the places I’ve been searching for the right shot, Delaware seems to be the most interesting.”

A perfect shot is not always planned.

“Sometimes I set out to take photos, but I sometimes shoot things on the way,” he said Fleming. “Being there in the right light is the most important factor and in the right place with the right light.”

The 15-image exhibit may be seen on the third floor of College Center.

“I thought the presentation was overall really good,” said freshman Autumn Krebs. “He really proved to the audience that he was a good photographer.”

Students considered purchasing Fleming’s photos shown in exhibit.

“I personally would like a few prints of his work,” said freshman Crystal Meredith. “Some of the pictures are so breathtaking. I’m sure we all could use pictures like these to nicely decorate our dorm rooms and rooms at home.”

Other students said they were awed by the effort Fleming said he put into each shot.

“I was impressed with the amount of preparation and patience that he said it took to create just one of these photos shown during the photo exhibit,” said junior Celeste Montgomery. “He has a way with bringing out the artistic quality in his photos.”

Fleming also said dreams can come true with a lot of dedication.

“As a freelancer, hard work and thinking outside the box as in everything will get you further in life, which are the keys to success,” said Fleming.

To see more of his images, go to www.jayflemingphotography.com.