Earlier this year, at its 12th Annual Summit, the North American Nature Photography Association recognized a number of photographers whose work has helped to promote the field of nature photography. Patricio Robles Gil, whose books illuminate the beauty and fragility of Mexico's ecosystems, was named the 2006 Outstanding Photographer of the Year. Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to environmental and fine-art photographer Pat O'Hara and Les Line, former editor-in-chief at Audubon for 25 years.
Three industry veterans were named NANPA Fellows, a designation bestowed on those who have contributed at least 20 years to the industry. They were Boyd Norton, a noted nature photographer and workshop leader; Bonnie Stutski, currently the photo editor of Smithsonian magazine and a longtime advocate for nature photographers; and Tom Till, a landscape photographer based in Moab, Utah.
The NANPA Recognition Award was presented to photographer and teacher Ray Pfortner for his support of the student scholarship program. The Outstanding Service Award, honoring a member who has served NANPA in an extraordinary way, went to Kevin Fitz Patrick, a field contributor to Nature Photographer, who was nominated for his work supporting the NANPA Student Program since its inception.