I climbed back into my truck covered in mud, sweat and cockleburs. I have just spent the better part of the morning on my hands and knees and I could not be happier. The subject of the day was wildflowers and the best way to find them was to get down on their level.

When it comes to photography, I often go into the field looking as if I am prepared for battle. I arm myself with a photo vest filled with extra lenses, converters, film, filters, flash and accessories. I carry my camera tripod mounted with a second body and lens often slung over my shoulder. I wear kneepads, gaiters and depending on what I plan to encounter, even elbow pads. On my back is a camelback water bottle so I never need to stop what I am doing to quench my thirst. In the pack are also a snack, first aid gear, bug repellant and usually a lunch.

While this may sound like overkill to many of you, this gear is there for a reason. Too often, I see photographers who seem afraid to leave the comforts or confines of their vehicle and road. They seem resistant to get down and dirty with their subjects. While many fine images can be made near roadways and trails, being away from the trappings of society is one of the attractions of nature photography. Going back to the car can mean the difference between an awesome shot and a missed opportunity. I carry what I need with me. Having what I need within reach allows me to make adjustments or get a drink of water without disrupting the scene. This kind of access and donning my 'battle gear' has made a huge difference in my success as a photographer.

I find that my 'armor' allows me the freedom to experiment with various viewpoints and angles that people don not often consider. Such as wearing gaiters on my lower legs to help protect them from twigs, thorns, rocks and snakes gives me the peace of mind to know that I can put my legs in various positions safely and comfortably. After three knee surgeries, I have learned that I need to protect my knees--and the Rocky Mountain West provides few soft places to kneel. Kneepads help me to get down low and stay there longer and more comfortably. Bug spray, water and food - well, their uses go without saying but that does not diminish their place in the arsenal.

Not long ago I was shooting at a famous heron rookery in Florida (yes, it was Venice). I came in dressed in full garb and some people were having a laugh over me in my kneepads and such. There were over 50 other photographers that day and I was the only one without my tripod extended to full height. Some tried to kneel down but the wet grass and aching knees made them get up while I was able to stay low. The slight change in perspective was amazing and the images made from the lower angle were my favorites from the shoot. I suspect they are not laughing now.

Getting low is not the only angle I will pursue--sometimes getting high can be equally as effective. I have been known to climb trees, cliffs, stand on the top of my vehicle...anything I can do to get the shot from unique angle. I even have had to use my experience as a pole-climbing instructor to hike up a telephone pole in a pinch.

It is essential that your gear be a help and not a hindrance. You do not want to be so laden with equipment that you are unable to reach the shutter button because you have a picnic basket between you and your tripod. Pack smart. There are many different photo vests, backpack systems, and clothing lines designed to meet each individual situation. Decide what your needs are and find compact, accessible and durable ways to fill them. You will need to experiment a bit to find what works-short day shoots are idea for trial and error.

My wife coined the phrase "Full Contact Photography" after seeing me get into unusual positions while toting all of my gear. That seems highly appropriate as I will crawl, climb, kneel or lay on my back, anything to find a new perspective while making contact with my subjects. Nature photography is not a spectator sport. Strap on a pair of kneepads, take the good-natured kidding in stride and bring back some truly unique images. Your photographs will thank you for it!

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Les Voorhis is a nationally published nature and wildlife photographer based in Morrison, Colorado. His photographic career began in 1988 in his home state of South Dakota as a photojournalist. After working for several small town newspapers, he soon returned to school to study commercial photography. After graduation, he began working for a stock photo agency as the photo editor. Always an avid outdoorsman, concentrating on producing images of nature and wildlife was a natural fit.

Les' images have appeared in many national and regional publications including Bugle Magazine, American Hunter, Game and Fish Publications, Colorado Outdoors as well as used in several calendars, postcards and for advertising. He is currently also marketing his images through a series of prints and a successful website which you can view here: Les Voorhis Photographics.