This month’s Instagram Takeover features North Carolina-based photographer Cathy Anderson. Having grown up in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Cathy has been exploring and photographing the region for most of her life.
“My dad raised me in a darkroom and my entire childhood was filled with adventures and memories of creating photographs with my him,” Cathy says. “I have had a camera in my hand since I was a kid and am largely self-taught, but have taken just a few classes here and there.”
Her lifelong passion for creating beautiful images has spawned an impressive portfolio of inspiring landscape and outdoor adventure photos. One look at Cathy’s photos will have you planning your next outdoor adventure, but don’t say we didn’t warn you.
You can keep up with Cathy adventures here, and stay tuned to our Instagram account all week as we share some her all-time favorite images.
A Q & A With Cathy
BRO: What is your current home base and where are you from originally?
CA: I currently live in Morganton, NC and was born and raised in Mount Holly, NC.
BRO: Outside of photography, what is your favorite outdoor activity?
CA: Last year, I was introduced to the outdoor community and various extreme sports, gaining a ton of super supportive friends along the way. That’s when I got back into rock climbing and backpacking for the first time since I was a teenager. I also love exploring the Linville Gorge, ballroom dancing, and plan on getting my hang gliding pilot’s license and SCUBA certification this year.
BRO: What is your favorite town in the Blue Ridge Mountains and why?
CA: Cullowheeeeeeeee! I’m a little partial because I graduated from the finest college in the land, however, it’s the most centralized town that packs a punch with outdoor exploration for all sports.
BRO: If you could only choose one area in this region to hike, explore, and photograph for the rest of your life what would it be?
CA: That’s hard to pick just one! I love Panthertown, Linville Gorge, and especially any of the slot canyons that are yet to be discovered.
BRO: One piece of gear (minus your camera) you wouldn’t head into the woods without?
CA: My headlamp; it shows me where to go (sometimes I still get spooked in the dark!), let’s me light paint in the dark, and lets me do various other photography-related artistic thingies.
