The air was crisp, the sky a brooding mixture of clouds and soft light a perfect setting for an introspective hike through the wildlife refuge in Corvallis, Oregon. I had my trusty Nikon D3100 slung around my neck, a camera that had been with me through countless adventures, capturing everything from sprawling landscapes to intimate wildlife moments. Today, however, was bittersweet. This was more than likely the last time I would use this beloved piece of gear.

The walk through the refuge was, as always, stunning. The sounds of birds calling from the trees and the gentle rustling of the wind through the grass reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place. Each step felt like a goodbye, a thank you to the camera that had seen me grow as a photographer.

I paused at this hauntingly beautiful tree, its stark silhouette standing out against the stormy sky. Something about it drew me in the texture of its branches, the play of light and shadow, the quiet strength it seemed to exude. I raised the D3100 to my eye, adjusted the settings, and took one last shot.

This image feels like the perfect conclusion to my time with the Nikon D3100. Its black-and-white tones encapsulate the mood of the moment: a mixture of melancholy and excitement. This wasn’t just the end of an era; it was the beginning of something new.

A new Nikon D7500 is on its way to me, and with it comes a wave of possibilities. While I’m eager to explore the upgraded features and push my photography further, I can’t help but feel a deep gratitude for the camera that started it all.

For me, photography is about more than just the gear; it’s about the stories the gear helps us tell. My D3100 told countless stories, and this final image is its farewell note. I’m ready to welcome the D7500 and the new stories it will help me uncover.

As I left the refuge, the sun broke through the clouds, casting a soft golden light over the landscape. It felt like a sign a quiet reassurance that change, while difficult, often leads to growth.

Here’s to the next chapter of Nerdy Viking Photography. The adventure continues.