One of the things I look forward to when I backpack the Sierra Nevada is getting up early in the morning and watching the first light of the sun slowly illuminate what John Muir affectionately called the “Range of Light”. There’s something peaceful and, at the same time, invigorating about seeing the sun start the day versus watching it conclude. Photographically, I also prefer morning because I feel there is more color contrast between the warm light and cool shadows in the morning than at sunset.
This particular sunrise was taken on my most recent backpacking trip two months ago in Sequoia National Park. My first physically challenging backpack in quite a while, 29 miles over four days with over 10K ascent and descent. It felt great to be pushed physically and to simply enjoy four days in nature.
To see more from my backpack, visit my trip gallery here.
Personal Update
A sunrise image also felt fitting to break the content drought here on the site. July also marked a new chapter of my professional life. Funnily enough, it begins where my previous chapter ended. I was hired back at Tyndale House Publishers, rejoining my old team at Rose Publishing. A year ago, I could not have predicted that, but I am very grateful to be working with them again.
Now that the cloud of job uncertainty is starting to lift, I am turning my attention back to my photography. My 2026 Photo Calendar will be up for sale very soon. Along with that will be posts on my recent trips and work over the past year, and updates to my Etsy shop. Last but not least, I will offer portrait sessions again this fall. So stay tuned for those announcements!