This is just a list of my favorite photos from 2019.
This year was peak creativity when it came to photography. It was a little more complicated when it comes to writing, but I am working on that.
Part of what made this year surprising was all the new places I went to. Ireland, Germany, Italy, and a few new homes in the US. Taking my camera to all these places helped me slow down and pay attention to what was around me. With all the photos, I will go through the moment, and how I got to this shot.
FYI: Photos are in order in slide show form at the bottom of post. Enjoy!
Ireland: This photo was in a National Park that the tour bus stopped at on the way to another destination. The park was beautiful. It was like a rain forest, and we had to spend a lot of time on the coast where the environment was much harsher. I climbed a few boulders to get flat with the waterfall. There was not much editing involved. I added a little more color and vignetting. It helps bring full attention to the waterfall. This will be a forever favorite.
Rocky Mountain National Park: I am putting two photos here. It is the same landscape and time, so I don’t think it makes sense to separate them. We were on our way to the trail, and it was 18 degrees out. We camped in Moraine park, and it was terrific. We had a fantastic view of the valley, and we embraced the cold with some whiskey and a fire. No better way to spend your time with friends and the mountains!
Mt Brandon Ireland: Noah and I went on a hike on the second highest peak in Ireland while we were there with our family. It was incredible. Really, the lighting in Ireland was the best I have ever experienced. It was so easy to edit with. We followed the stations of the cross as we went up and enjoyed the scenery. It was really a great and different way to get to know the country. As we hiked the 3,000 ft, a shepherd made his way up and down the mountains with his dogs. We could see the villages moving about as we went. It was quiet and beautiful.
The Mushrooms: I took this photo towards the end of Elisa and I’s honeymoon. It was such a wonderful time. Not planning a damn thing is so necessary sometimes. I have never seen either of us so calm. We just went where our minds wanted to go. These mushrooms highlight the simplicity of this event in our lives. Maybe a stretch, but whatever.
The Leafs: This last one is Colorado again. I hate to not include some others from more trips across the country, but I love this photo of Spend leaves on the ground. I fell on the ice multiple times because of these beautiful little things. It also means a great picture in nature is not just the grandest landscape. It is the enjoyment of the small things in life.
Last year has been crazy on all the levels. I am married, going to be a father, and career moving quickly. Too many things to be grateful for. I am thankful to have my camera and beautiful places to visit.
I look forward to doing more exploring with my family in the years to come. It all is such a gift.
