This past April, May, and June offered a vibrant window for photography. In April Bhutan was brimming with cultural activity. Traditional festivals featuring masked and the famous black-hat dancers were taking place in colorfully curtained monastery courtyards. While it was too misty to see the high Himalayas at this time of year, the fog wafted through evergreen forests in the early mornings.
Later in May we photographed terraced rice paddies in northern Vietnam; it was a landscape rich in color and design. It was also an area great for abstract photography; a humid atmosphere combined with layer upon layer of paint and decaying posters creates wondrous photographic opportunities if you allow your imagination to run wild.
Between workshops I was able to fly off to Hawaii to witness Episode 25 of the Kilauea eruption—check out the video if you missed it! In June I conducted two workshops: a very wet experience in southern Oregon and then headed off to the wide open spaces of Wyoming. It was too sunny in Grand Teton National Park, but we were able to make it work, photographing stunning scenics at the margins of the day.
Whether you seek vibrant culture, sacred landscapes, or pristine wilderness, these months form a golden arc of opportunity for photographers across these four vivid, varied locations!
As a lifelong photographer, mountaineer and naturalist, I’ve always felt a deep connection to the wild. “Wild About Wildlife” month is a celebration of everything that makes our natural world so compelling—whether it’s the majesty of a snow leopard in the norther reaches of India or the bond between a mother and her cub up in Katmai. My latest book, Wild Lives, is a culmination of decades of travel and photography, showcasing the vibrant personalities of the animals I’ve encountered and the environments they call home.
This book is more than just a collection of images I’ve collected on my travels over the years; it’s an invitation to understand the emotional complexity of animals and the importance of preserving their habitats. As part of “Wild About Wildlife” month, I’m reminded of the urgent need for awareness and appreciation for our natural places and the denizens that call them home.
Enjoy Wild About Wildlife month! If you’re in the U.S. or happen to be visiting, get out and enjoy our National Parks and let the powers-that-be know what truly makes America beautiful. It certainly is not reducing the scientists who have dedicated their lives to the research and protection of our natural habitats to cleaning toilets, something I think we can agree on no matter the state of our politics. These folks have important jobs to do, from identifying biological trends, measuring the impact of a changing climate, curbing the spread of invasive species and much more!
This fall, I’m inviting you to join me at one of three unforgettable locations across the U.S.—I’d love for you to be part of the adventure! These workshops are designed for photographers at every level who are eager to capture stunning landscapes, receive expert guidance, and connect with like-minded creatives. We’ll share not only powerful photography experiences, but also meaningful critique sessions and some truly memorable meals.
Each location offers its own unique magic. In Colorado, we’ll chase golden light through alpine passes as the aspen groves turn to fire. On the Olympic Peninsula, we’ll immerse ourselves in ancient moss-draped forests, waterfalls, and the misty moodiness that makes the Pacific Northwest so special. And in Arizona, you’ll photograph the striking contrast of autumn cottonwoods glowing against the sculpted red rock desert.
These are my only U.S. workshops until mid-2026, so if you’ve ever dreamed of learning directly from me, this is your chance. Whether it’s the crisp mountain air, the deep greens of Washington, or the bold desert tones of Arizona that call to you, I promise an inspiring and transformative experience.
In July, I usually head north to places like Iceland, Svalbard, and Alaska. The days are long, the light is beautiful, and the wildlife is busy feeding before winter. It’s the perfect time to be out in nature with my camera.
I also enjoy traveling to the Southern Hemisphere, where it’s winter this time of year. Countries like Chile, Argentina, and South Africa have cooler, drier weather that makes for great wildlife and landscape photography. The low sun and clear air give everything a crisp, clean look.
Even in tropical places like Brazil’s Pantanal and the Amazon, there’s always something exciting to shoot in July. The seasons may not change as much, but the animals and landscapes are always full of life. No matter where I go, the changing light and weather make July one of the best months to photograph the natural world.
Enjoy the photos inspired by July! Next year at this time I’ll be in Mongolia to revisit the Eagle Hunters, Naadam games, Shaman and more – sign up today and join me on an adventure!
