April 14, 2025

Ep. 98 w/ Lance Krueger - Exploring Wildlife Photography with One of the Most Published White-tailed Deer & Wild Turkey Photographers in the World

53 minutes

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In this episode, we dive deep into the career of Lance Krueger, an acclaimed wildlife photographer known for his close encounters with some guy of the most elusive creatures. The conversation begins with Lance sharing his childhood memories of how hunting magazines ignited his passion for photography. He recalls dreaming of capturing the stunning images he admired, never realizing that he would one day take those same photographs for the very magazines that inspired him. Fun fact: he has more Field & Stream covers than any other photographer, to this day.

After saving diligently from a summer job at a cafeteria in his youth, he acquired his first camera and lens, and the rest is history. With each roll of film, he learned the nuances of framing, exposure, and how to capture the spirit and essence of the animals he loved photographing. The anecdote of his first roll of film, where he impressed a local photographer with his natural eye for composition, serves as a testament to his innate talent.

Throughout his career, Lance has forged a unique relationship with his subjects. He has particularly focused on capturing white-tailed deer, despite the common belief that they are the challenging subject to photograph. Lance emphasizes the importance of understanding the animal's behavior and habitat. It’s here that he distinguishes himself from many wildlife photographers who rely heavily on large telephoto lenses. Instead, he employs smaller equipment and focuses on getting as close to the wildlife as possible. His innovative techniques include building custom blinds to draw deer in closer, ultimately leading to more intimate and impactful captures.

With over 30 years of professional experience under his belt, Lance now offers the “Whitetail Dream Buck Up-Close Master Class” where he shares his wealth of knowledge with aspiring photographers. These classes focus on strategies to overcome the nuances of photographing elusive wildlife and emphasize the art of getting close, not just in physical proximity but also in composition. He insists that one does not need to have the most expensive equipment to achieve magazine-quality images; rather, it’s about understanding the light, the environment, and the animal itself.

One of the most exciting tales that emerged during the episode is Lance’s recent encounter with a palmated buck, a rare deer that resembles a mix of a fallow deer and a moose. After a grueling search that involved numerous sits on a 10,000 acre ranch, for a deer that hadn't been seen in the previous two months. His meticulous preparation paid off when he finally spotted the buck in a stunning moment, capturing thousands of photographs from a mere 20 yards away. The thrill of that experience underscores the exhilarating unpredictability of wildlife photography—a theme that resonates deeply throughout this episode.

Listeners are treated to practical advice throughout the discussion, from tips on choosing the right equipment to the significance of local knowledge in wildlife behavior. Lance’s passion for the art form is palpable, and it serves as a reminder of what it means to be a true artist, risking time and effort for the perfect shot. Furthermore, the episode wraps up with discussion surrounding Lance's annual photography calendar—a collector's item which not only features stunning images but also shares stories and insights behind each capture.

Make sure you visit Lance's pages:

www.lance-krueger.com
IG: "lance_krueger"

George Blitch:
SonofaBlitch.com
AmericanMadeMaps.com
IG: "

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