Working on a website - looking for input

[Bandit]

Hi all,

I'm working on a website that will primarily display my photos of native reptiles and amphibians I encounter in the field. Since the site is geared towards a specific niche, I figured I'd ask you all.

First, for the home page of the website, do you think it should open up to the gallery with all of my photos? Or do you think there should be a more general home page (maybe with a few teaser pictures), and you would have to navigate to the gallery on the menu.

Second, what are your thoughts on a blog about my herping experiences? It wouldn't be a journal of every outing, but of more significant outings and experiences. Possibly summaries of my month or my past few outings. I'd also include plans for herping trips, target species, etc. It would likely include pictures within blog. Would YOU be interested in reading that? I know that my instagram followers are interested in my herping adventures and seeing photos of my finds, but I'm not sure people would want to read about it.

On a final note, I know that ultimately this stuff may come down to the quality/style of my photos, writing skills, and website design. However, I'm more concerned with thoughts on the overall content for now.