Mist On The Mountains, The Southern Appalachians

I am currently running a crowdfunding project on www.indiegogo.com and your help can make this project happen. Follow the more information link below and check it out. Every little bit helps!


Fine art images of the Southern Appalachian Mountains crafted into an artistic coffee table book.

Background and Beginnings

I have spent a lot of time in the southern Appalachian region over the last 40 years and it is where my daughter, Candy, grew up. Candy passed away on July 5,2013 at the age of 39 and her passing has made me reflect on my life goals. More importantly, how we tend to set aside our goals while we do all the things that are necessary to raise our families and provide for them. This project will achieve one of my goals in life, but is also a tribute to Candy and the beauty that surrounded her through out her life.

The Appalachian Mountains are the oldest mountain range in North America and they hold more mystery than anywhere I have ever been. The majestic views from the peaks and the breathtaking chill of the waterfalls that dot the landscape fill the heart and soul with a sense of wonder that is overwhelming!




"Mist On The Mountains, Southern Appalachians" is a compilation of fine art images to be printed as a coffee table book. Many of the images for this book have already been produced and the remainder will be shot over the course of the next 90 days.

The death of my daughter showed me in no uncertain terms that we are not promised tomorrow, next week or next year. I will be 60 at the end of this year and the time has come for me to make this dream happen.

My plan includes the printing of, at least, 100 copies of the book. Of course, going over the original funding goal will increase the number of books we can produce.

Making The Commitment

At the end of August 2014, I closed my business and ended a nearly 4 decades long career in tattooing. I did this as a leap of faith and to force myself to devote 100% effort to making this project come to fruition. Did I make the right call? I think so. This is where my heart has led me and it is the path I have chosen to follow. I would love for you to share this journey with me as we explore the beauty of the lands and landmarks of the Southern Appalachian Mountains!




Risks & Challenges
Travel expenses are the biggest challenge in the completion of the project. The southern portion of the Appalachian Mountains extend from southern Maryland all the way down into South Carolina. It's a lot of space to cover. Ideally, I would like to acquire a travel trailer to save on expenses like hotels, food, and maintaining a space to use my computer for editing images. I have been working on some trade deals to that end.

Weather is also always a consideration when it comes to outdoor photography, however, I do own an umbrella and I don't believe I would melt if I got wet. Protecting the cameras and lenses is first priority in inclement weather.

Other Ways You Can Help
Some people just can't contribute, but that doesn't mean they can't help. Please, pass the word to all your friends and contacts. The more people that know of this project, the more likely we can reach or, even, exceed our goals. I will even provide a pre-written outline of the project that can be copied and pasted to your emails and social media posts on my blog at www.jmhillphoto.com/blog.

Click Here for More Information