Our Photographer – Bella Vista Outdoors

Meet Dave Melear, Our Photographer

Image of photographer Dave Melear with his camera in front of waterfall.

Meet Dave Melear—friend, talented photographer, former neighbor, and the creator of many of the beautiful images featured throughout Bella Vista Outdoors and the Bella Vista Outdoors Shop (used with Dave’s permission).

Dave grew up in Missouri, spent several years living in Northwest Arkansas, and recently returned to southern Missouri, where he and his wife enjoy having more land and room to explore. During his years in Bella Vista, Dave and his wife became our neighbors and good friends.

How Dave’s Photography Journey Began

Dave describes the beginning of his photography journey this way:

“Around 1976, I had a friend who was into photography, so after some convincing, I bought a film camera. That started my obsession with photography.

On Christmas night in 1983, we lost everything in a house fire, including all of my camera equipment, photographs, and negatives. With a baby and the task of rebuilding our lives, replacing camera equipment wasn’t a priority.

Around 2005 or 2006, I purchased a Canon Rebel XT, my first digital camera, and the photography bug hit me again. I’ve stayed with it through several different cameras and continue taking photos to this day.

Recently, I’ve been experimenting with older lenses adapted to modern digital cameras. They often create a unique look and feel that newer lenses don’t always provide.

That’s basically where I started and where I am today.

What Dave Loved About Bella Vista

According to Dave:

“The thing I loved most about Northwest Arkansas was the limitless opportunities for photographers. You had everything within easy driving distance.

Favorite places, too many to list. Wildlife everywhere, cityscapes galore, something always going on to pique your imagination. Each season has its own unique rewards. Again, I try to find that unique moment in each one.

My style changes from moment to moment. I might be photographing a waterfall with a long exposure one minute and switching to a fast shutter speed to capture wildlife the next.

The only photography styles I never really got into were portrait and wedding photography.”

Capturing Moments Others Might Miss

When asked what he hopes people feel when viewing his photographs, Dave says:

“I hope people say ‘Wow’ or ‘Awesome photography.

Maybe a photograph takes them somewhere else for a short period of time.

That’s one reason I shared my work in groups like Arkansas Nature Lovers and Missouri Nature Lovers. Many people are unable to get out and experience these places for themselves, and photography allows them to see the world through my eyes.”

Dave especially enjoys macro photography.

“Here’s a photo I took a few days ago—a tiny spider web covered with morning dew. I cropped it to better show the droplets.

Macro image of spider on its web with sun behind it

Tap the image, zoom in, and explore it. You’ll discover details most people never notice.

That’s why I love macro photography. It’s a completely different world right at your feet, and most people don’t even realize it’s there.”

Photography by Dave Melear

Many of the landscape, wildlife, lake, waterfall, and nature photographs featured throughout Bella Vista Outdoors were captured by Dave.

His images help showcase the beauty of Bella Vista, Northwest Arkansas, and the Ozark region through the eyes of someone who truly appreciates the outdoors.

Thank you, Dave, for sharing your talent and helping visitors experience these beautiful places through your photography.