Woodland Camera Forum to host free pictures presentation with Jan Lightfoot on Sept. 21 – Every day Democrat

The Woodland Camera Forum will host a free presentation on scenic pictures of the Caddo Lake space in Texas close to Louisiana by photographer Jan Lightfoot on Monday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. at 240 N. West St. in Woodland. The program is open to the general public.

In addition to Lightfoot’s presentation, members of the WCF will present a few of their current photos to debate and be taught methods. Refreshments are served.

Lightfoot says, “Caddo Lake in Texas is a place that feels like it exists somewhere between a dream and a memory. In November 2025, I was there on a photographic trip and spent 4 days navigating its waterways among ancient, moss-draped bald cypress trees. Many of these giant cypress trees are hundreds of years old. They’re fascinating from a biological standpoint because, unlike typical evergreens, bald cypress trees are deciduous; their needles turn a brilliant orange and red in the fall before dropping.”

“The lake is home to one of the most biodiverse spots in Texas. Alligators, river otters, beavers, and an incredible range of birdlife—herons, egrets, ospreys, and even the occasional bald eagle passing through. Underneath the surface, it’s known for some of the best largemouth bass fishing in the state, and the maze of sloughs and cypress-lined channels makes it a haven for turtles, frogs, and all kinds of waterfowl throughout the year.”

Lightfoot has put collectively a portfolio of photos from her four-day journey, masking the whole lot from dense forest surroundings to previous constructions and wildlife she found there.

“Many of my photographic images tend to reflect a long association with classic and traditional compositions with an emphasis on nature. More recently, I am enjoying a slight departure into the world of altered realities, ICM, and artistic stylizing. I find the challenge of creating altered images with my own original images to be a wonderful exercise in imagination.”

“My passion for photography has been a self-taught and lifelong journey, evolving from my high school darkroom to professional endeavors across various platforms. Starting with the Idaho Statesman newspaper staff as a photographer, and then gained extensive experience in custom color printing labs in Idaho and California. My expertise was further recognized when I became a Certified Photographic Counselor through the Photo Marketing Association while managing Wentling’s Camera in Walnut Creek in the 1980’s.”

“Over the last 14 years, I’ve been sharing my knowledge and love of photography with students of photography through presentations to camera clubs and leading photographic workshops throughout Northern California. I believe that the creative path is never-ending!”