David Shaw
By Geok Hwa Ventrice
Have you asked yourself “why do some photos look dramatic yet natural?” The Camera Corner presents David Shaw a nature photographer and the vice president of the Cookeville Camera Club. He will be leading a Lightroom live edit workshop at the Cookeville Art Studio and Gallery located at 186 S Walnut Ave on April 13 between 7:00-9:00 pm. Besides demonstrating how to increase clarity and sharpness through focus stacking and panorama stitching, David plans to share his astrophotography workflow, specifically on how to bring out the color in the Milky Way without overexposing the scene and letting the scene speaks for itself.
David laid the groundwork of his photography skills through the guidance of a friend, a professional wedding photographer, and the willingness to keep learning through practicing. Along with inspirations drawn from master photographers, e.g. Clyde Butcher, Jimmy Chin, Simon d’Entremont, and Austin James Jackson, how they connect to nature and present the natural world, David began his journey as a landscape and wildlife photographer with a conservationist outlook.
Born and raised in South Florida, David witnessed the drastic changes in the Everglades. “From overdevelopment and hurricane damage, to erosion and invasive species affecting the ecosystem, I watched many of the places I grew up fishing and camping slowly change or disappear” David said. He has strived to leave each shooting location better than he had found it. Since moving to Tennessee in 2018, David has found himself doing more photography from his kayak, primarily on Center Hill Lake shooting his subjects from a different perspective while simultaneously cleaning up trash along the way. With his Canon R5, paired with the RF 200-800mm lens, he typically shoots in manual mode with autofocus and auto ISO. By paying attention to the details in every photograph, David, a storyteller, wants to cultivate a sense of connection and presence in his audience as if they are standing next to him in that moment and seeing the scene as if he has experienced it.
David joined the Cookeville Camera Club in 2025 and became the vice president in 2026. He has stepped up to the plate by sharing insights with and providing feedbacks to members. A photography club, to David, can help reignite motivation by bringing together photographers with different interests and skills. Having experienced the imposter syndrome himself, David has helped members develop the confidence to believe in their own works and enter their photos into the Annual Photography Exhibit of the club in March.
“A lot of people feel like they need the best camera, the perfect lens, or enough knowledge before they begin, but the truth is that everyone starts somewhere” said David. “Photography is really about learning to see light, composition, timing, and emotion. Growth happens simply by going outside, slowing down, and photographing what interests you. Start with what you have, learn as you go, and do not be afraid to make mistakes. That is part of the process for every photographer” David continued. Buying used camera gears through places like MPB, KEH, Adorama, and even Facebook Marketplace, can be a great way to get quality gears without spending as much if money is a concern. Renting gear through companies like Lensrentals or Rent a Camera can also be a smart way to try different equipment before making a big investment.
Join us for the “Lightroom Live: The Art of the Edit Workshop” by David Shaw, a conservationist photographer of the Cookeville Camera Club. From subtle adjustments to dramatic enhancements, learn to render depth and impact to your photo or simply enjoy a sense of camaraderie among like-minded people. Check out our schedule at https://www.cookevillecameraclub.com.