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Donald Lyon Chief Guide & Outfitter: Don has led photographic adventures since 1979 to over 40 countries and 25 US States. He is a popular judge of photographic competitions and presenter at photographic conferences. It is the philosphy of travel that intrigues him -- as well as the images. Travelogues are his specialty.
Janet Denninger Janet Denninger, Close-Up's ever-helpful Operations Manager, has been with us since 1987. Janet has over 30 years of experience as a travel agent, having earned the coveted title of Certified Travel Counselor. Janet is an avid nature photographer and active in photographic events. Her images, including creative sandwiches using nudes and patterns from nature, have appeared in many galleries around the San Francisco Bay Area.
Thomas M. Johnson Guide: Tom's background is in biology, especially marine mammals and tropical ecosystems. He has been taking photographs since childhood and is a professional nature and wildlife photographer. Tom has been helping Close-Up develop new expeditions since 1983. Costa Rica, Alaska, Florida and Australia are favorite destinations. Clients praise Tom for his helpfulness as they groan at his outrageous puns.
Darran Leal Darran Leal has led over 50 tours in 15 years to destinations including New Zealand,(In fact he married a Kiwi and lived in New Zealand for 6 years.) Australia, (where he was born and ravels extensively each year) and Argentina (three tours). He has had images published around the world in over 100 magazines, calendars, books - cluding 3 of his own, company end of year reports and more. Darran is a pro photographer who works hard at offering individual assistance in the field to improve your photography. He runs regular courses for Nikon and other camera brand users in Australia including his own program. More Info: see www.darranleal.com.au
Jed Manwaring Guide: Northern California-based professional location photographer. Jed has extensive credits with outdoor, nature, conservation, business publications and advertising. He teaches at Point Reyes Field Seminars and also with partner Brenda Tharp. His training in Physical Geography includes Aerial Photography. Jed's teaching and guide style bring enthusiasm and humor plus a unique vision to those traveling with him.	More info on Jed: www.jedmanwaring.com
Mike Matlach Mike Matlach studied commercial photography in the beauty of the Aspen, Colorado area, and later moved to the San Francisco Bay Area to pursue photography, travel and other business interests. During his photographic career, Mike has photographed in over thirty countries worldwide, enjoying a variety of cultures and environments. In addition to his own photographic efforts, he has served as a technical assistant on assignment for National Geographic, Time, and Life magazines. Along with his broad experience in photography, Mike has a sense of humor and easy-going ability to maximize any environment or situation for strong photographic outcomes. Add his passion for travel, and Mike has the perfect combination of guide qualities for satisfying Close-Up clients' travel goals.	More info on Mike: www.michaelmatlach.com
Barbara Michelman Guide: Barbara Michelman is a travel writer and photographer. She has lived in France and Italy. After a career in motion picture lighting and teaching Film Lighting, she travelled and worked extensively throughout Europe, the Middle East and the American West. Her philosophy, that "travel is like dancing lessons from God," reveals her joy in sharing the traveler's life as well as her background in art history and philosophy. Barbara's images combine technical expertise and artistic purpose to capture the beauty and pathos of this amazing world — full of nuance, color and light. More info: see www.fotofemme.com	More info on Barbara: www.fotofemme.com
Nick Nicholson Guide: Professional outdoor and location photographer, Nick has created images for TWA guidebooks, Arizona Highways, and many travel companies and cruise lines. An enthusiastic race car driver and hot air balloon pilot, Nick is a resourceful and competent leader. One of our most popular guides, Nick is a great photography teacher and does passable imitations too!
Mehmet Özbalci Guide: Mehmet Özbalci lives in Instanbul with his wife and son. Mehmet organizes CUE's Turkish trips, serves as local guide and is mastering the skills of photographic guide. Mehmet is very conscientious, thoroughly versed in Turkish history and culture, and is a great travel companion. He is also available to lead and organize custom tours through Close-Up Expeditions.
Alejandro Ronchetti Guide: Argentina's leading naturalist and nature photographer, Alejandro specializes in Argentina and Brazil. He shares his behind the scenes knowledge of South America enthusiastically.
Charin Silphisuth Guide: Raised among the tribal peoples of Northern Thailand, Charin speaks many of their languages. His local knowledge and contacts allow us behind the scenes photo opportunities with disappearing cultures.
Raul Sojo Guide: Venezuela's leading nature photographer, Raul enjoys leading others to his favorite places. He knows everyone and everything about Venezuela and is a personable and fun leader.
Sai Woon Sone Guide: Aka Daniel, he's our man in Rangoon. Trained as a lawyer and a native of Shan State, Daniel is superb at setting up shots with local people. His respect for all the people and traditions of Myanmar helps us to appreciate this unique and hidden culture.
Doug Steakley Douglas Steakley is a widely recognized California photographer with a Master of Fine Arts degree His distinct images range from the Monterey Peninsula where he lives, to many international destinations. Two large format books feature his images -- Pacific Light, Images of The Monterey Peninsula, and Big Sur and Beyond, The Legacy of the Big Sur Land Trust. Photographs by Douglas Steakley have received many awards and have been shown in numerous newspapers, books, national and local magazines, as well as calendars, post cards, posters, book covers and greeting cards, and private and corporate collections. Doug has led his own tours and workshops, and is a charming and patient teacher and guide. We are pleased that he is joining Close-Up to lead our Colonial Mexico: Day of the Dead.	Visit Doug's personal website