Here's How To Climb Mount Shavano, a Colorado 14er
Mount Shavano, standing at 14,229 feet, is one of Colorado’s more accessible 14ers—perfect for hikers seeking a big summit day without technical climbing. Located in the Sawatch Range near Salida, the standard East Slopes route is a moderate Class 2 hike with well-defined trails and breathtaking alpine views.
How to Climb Mount Shavano in Colorado
Mount Shavano, standing at 14,229 feet, is one of Colorado’s more accessible 14ers—perfect for hikers seeking a big summit day without technical climbing. Located in the Sawatch Range near Salida, the standard East Slopes route is a moderate Class 2 hike with well-defined trails and breathtaking alpine views.
Getting to the Trailhead
Start from Poncha Springs and head west on County Road 140, then turn onto CR 250. The road eventually becomes Forest Road 252, which leads to the trailhead at approximately 9,750 feet. The road is rough but usually passable in summer by most vehicles. There’s a small parking area with limited space, so arriving early is a good idea, especially on weekends.
Route Overview: East Slopes
From the trailhead, begin on the Colorado Trail for a short stretch before branching off onto the Mount Shavano Trail. The path climbs gradually through forested terrain, with a few creek crossings and log steps built into the trail to prevent erosion.
At about 11,800 feet, you'll break through the treeline and begin ascending more exposed slopes. From here, continue up a broad shoulder toward the saddle at 13,400 feet between Mount Shavano and its neighbor, Tabeguache Peak. Turn right and follow the ridge to the summit, navigating some loose rock and occasional switchbacks. The total round-trip distance is roughly 9.5 miles with around 4,500 feet of elevation gain.
Climbing the Angel of Shavano (Spring Snow Route)
In early spring, snowmelt forms the famous “Angel of Shavano” snowfield—shaped like an angel with outstretched arms. This seasonal feature offers an adventurous alternative route that involves snow climbing with an ice axe and crampons. The route begins around 11,200 feet and climbs directly up the snowfield toward the summit ridge. This variation is best tackled early in the morning while the snow is still firm and stable. Helmets and avalanche gear are strongly recommended.
Tips for Success
Start your hike early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common in summer.
Check weather and trail conditions in advance.
Bring layers, sun protection, and plenty of water.
Be prepared for variable trail conditions—snow can linger into early summer.
Mount Shavano offers a rewarding summit experience whether you hike it in late summer or climb the Angel in spring. It’s a scenic, satisfying climb and a worthy goal for anyone chasing Colorado’s 14ers.
The Weekend Guide to Half Moon Bay
Looking for the perfect weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area? Nestled just 29 miles south of San Francisco lies Half Moon Bay, a charming coastal town that often flies under the radar but packs a punch when it comes to weekend adventures. Whether you're a surfer, poet, hiker, nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing coastal getaway, Half Moon Bay has something for everyone.
Looking for the perfect weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of the Bay Area? Nestled just 29 miles south of San Francisco lies Half Moon Bay, a charming coastal town that often flies under the radar but packs a punch when it comes to weekend adventures. Whether you're a surfer, poet, hiker, nature lover, or simply seeking a relaxing coastal getaway, Half Moon Bay has something for everyone.
PROS:
Stunning Coastal Beauty: Half Moon Bay boasts a breathtaking coastline with rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and dramatic ocean views, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
Outdoor Activities: From surfing and paddleboarding to hiking and beachcombing, Half Moon Bay offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers and leisurely explorers alike.
Laid-back Atmosphere: Despite its proximity to San Francisco, Half Moon Bay maintains a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
Charming Downtown: The town's charming downtown area is lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries, offering a delightful experience for visitors looking to explore local culture and cuisine.
Sustainable Practices: Half Moon Bay is committed to sustainability and environmental conservation, ensuring that visitors can enjoy its natural beauty responsibly.
CONS:
Crowded During Peak Season: Like many coastal destinations, Half Moon Bay can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, especially on weekends and holidays, which may detract from the tranquility of the experience.
Limited Public Transportation: While Half Moon Bay is easily accessible by car, public transportation options to the area are limited, making it more challenging for visitors without a vehicle to explore the region.
Weather Variability: The coastal weather in Half Moon Bay can be unpredictable, with foggy mornings and cool evenings even during the summer months, so visitors should be prepared for potential weather changes.
Higher Costs: Accommodation and dining options in Half Moon Bay, particularly those with ocean views or upscale amenities, can be more expensive compared to inland areas or less touristy destinations.
Limited Nightlife: While Half Moon Bay offers a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere, it may not be the ideal destination for those seeking vibrant nightlife or a bustling entertainment scene.
A surfer dropping in on a massive wave at Mavericks. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Why Visit Half Moon Bay?
Half Moon Bay beckons with its breathtaking coastline that's nothing short of a nature lover's paradise. The rugged cliffs stand sentinel against the crashing waves of the Pacific, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring vista. These cliffs not only add to the visual appeal but also provide fantastic vantage points for panoramic ocean views, perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments or simply to pause and take in the sheer grandeur of the seascape.
The beaches in Half Moon Bay are more than just sandy stretches; they are tranquil havens where the rhythmic lull of the waves invites relaxation and contemplation. Whether you're lounging on the soft sands, taking a refreshing dip in the ocean, or indulging in a leisurely beach walk, the pristine beaches of Half Moon Bay offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
What sets Half Moon Bay apart is its ability to maintain a laid-back atmosphere despite its proximity to the bustling metropolis of San Francisco. Here, time seems to slow down, allowing visitors to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with nature. The town's charming streets lined with quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries exude a welcoming vibe, inviting exploration and leisurely strolls.
Moreover, Half Moon Bay's natural beauty isn't just a backdrop; it's an integral part of the town's identity. The community takes pride in preserving its coastal heritage and protecting the local environment. This commitment to sustainability ensures that visitors can experience the beauty of Half Moon Bay without compromising its future.
In essence, Half Moon Bay offers more than just a weekend getaway; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature, rejuvenate your senses, and create lasting memories against the stunning backdrop of the California coast.
Surfing and Water Activities
For surfers, Half Moon Bay is a mecca during the winter months when powerful swells roll in from the Pacific Ocean. Mavericks, one of the most famous big-wave surf spots in the world, attracts experienced surfers from far and wide. Even if you're not ready to tackle the massive waves of Mavericks, there are plenty of other surf breaks along the coast suitable for surfers of all skill levels.
If surfing isn't your thing, fear not—Half Moon Bay offers a range of water activities, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and beachcombing. Rent a paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Pillar Point Harbor, or join a guided kayaking tour to get up close and personal with the marine life that calls the bay home.
Hiking and Outdoor Exploration
Beyond the beaches, Half Moon Bay boasts an array of hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. The coastal bluffs offer panoramic views of the ocean, while inland trails wind through redwood forests and meadows teeming with wildflowers. Popular hiking spots include the Purisima Creek Redwoods Preserve, where you can wander amidst towering redwoods, and the coastal trail that stretches from Half Moon Bay to nearby Montara.
Weekend Itinerary For Half Moon Bay
Here's a suggested itinerary for a memorable weekend in Half Moon Bay:
Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day
Arrive in Half Moon Bay and check into your accommodations, whether it's a cozy beachside inn or a vacation rental with ocean views.
Spend the afternoon exploring Half Moon Bay State Beach or Francis Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the town's many restaurants, featuring fresh catches from the nearby waters.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe before embarking on a hiking adventure. Choose a trail that suits your skill level and preferences, whether it's a coastal hike or a trek through the redwoods.
After your hike, cool off with some water activities. Rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the calm waters of Pillar Point Harbor.
In the evening, unwind with a beach bonfire (where permitted) or enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant with sunset views.
Day 3: Explore and Departure
Before heading home, take some time to explore Half Moon Bay's charming downtown area. Browse the boutiques, art galleries, and local shops for unique souvenirs.
If time allows, visit the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse or take a scenic drive along Highway 1 for more breathtaking coastal views.
Depart Half Moon Bay feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from your coastal getaway.
Is Half Moon Bay Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Half Moon Bay offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and coastal charm that make it an ideal weekend escape from the Bay Area. Whether you're seeking adventure on the waves, peaceful hikes in nature, or simply a relaxing beach getaway, Half Moon Bay has something special to offer every visitor.
The sunset haze over the marina of Half Moon Bay. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Half Moon Bay stands as a testament to the natural beauty and laid-back charm that defines California's coastal treasures. Its rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and array of outdoor activities make it a haven for weekend adventurers and those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life. While it may have its challenges, such as peak season crowds and limited public transportation, the pros of visiting Half Moon Bay far outweigh the cons. Whether you're surfing the waves, hiking the coastal trails, or simply soaking in the stunning ocean views, Half Moon Bay offers an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover why Half Moon Bay is a hidden gem worth exploring along the majestic California coastline.
Discover More In Half Moon Bay
How to See and Photograph the Totem Pole in Monument Valley
Rising like a stone spire from the desert floor, the Totem Pole is one of the most iconic formations in Monument Valley—and one of the trickiest to photograph up close. Whether you're chasing sunrise light or dreaming of a long-lens shot that captures the scale of the Southwest, here’s how to see and photograph the Totem Pole respectfully and effectively.
Rising like a stone spire from the desert floor, the Totem Pole is one of the most iconic formations in Monument Valley—and one of the trickiest to photograph up close. Whether you're chasing sunrise light or dreaming of a long-lens shot that captures the scale of the Southwest, here’s how to see and photograph the Totem Pole respectfully and effectively.
Getting as close as possible without a private tour. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
You Can’t Drive to the Totem Pole on Your Own
The Totem Pole sits on restricted Navajo Nation land, beyond the public 17-mile scenic drive. To reach it, you’ll need to join a guided tour with a Navajo guide. These tours are not only required, they’re worth it—guides share cultural insights, local stories, and can take you to locations otherwise off-limits.
I haven’t taken a sunrise tour myself, but I’ve photographed the Totem Pole from the end of the scenic drive, where you can catch a distant view. It’s a great spot for using a long lens to compress the towering spire against the vast desert. While it’s not the same as standing beneath it, the scene is still powerful, especially in good light.
Gear I Used:
Objects in mirror might appear closer than in real life. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
When to Photograph The Totem Pole
Morning light is best. The sun rises behind you, casting warm golden hues across the landscape and bringing out the rich textures of the spire and the surrounding Yei Bi Chei formations. Even from a distance, the Totem Pole stands out dramatically in this light.
If you’re planning a closer photography session, look for guided photo-specific tours. Some offer early access or sunset trips tailored to photographers, giving you better conditions and time to set up your shot.
Quick note: reaching the Totem Pole for sunrise without a guide is almost impossible as the area opens for tourist at sunrise and the Totem Pole is at the very end of the loop. So, sunset light would be your only option for a self-guided tour.
Respect Navajo Land
This region is sacred, and visiting should be done with reverence. Stay on designated paths, follow your guide’s instructions, and avoid bringing drones (they're not allowed without special permits). Climbing the Totem Pole is also strictly prohibited.
Kristin snapping a memory of the Totem Pole from the accessible lot. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Final Tips
Book tours in advance—they can fill quickly, especially during peak season. Dress in layers, bring water, and pack a zoom lens if you’re shooting from afar. Whether you see it from the scenic drive or with a guide at its base, the Totem Pole is a breathtaking reminder of the beauty and cultural depth of Monument Valley.
Outdoor Retailer Was a Miss, But At Least We Had a Hotel
After an enjoyable hotel breakfast—that isn’t a joke, I love those waffles—I walked the couple of block to the Salt Palace for day two at Outdoor Retailer. If you read the day one recap, you know my immeditate take on the tradeshow, but I was hopeful that today would be a bit better. I still had a little less than half the showroom to walk and chat with brands. So, let’s dive in:
After an enjoyable hotel breakfast—that isn’t a joke, I love those waffles—I walked the couple of block to the Salt Palace for day two at Outdoor Retailer. If you read the day one recap, you know my immeditate take on the tradeshow, but I was hopeful that today would be a bit better. I still had a little less than half the showroom to walk and chat with brands. So, let’s dive in:
Chestnut trying to understand what he is doing at OR.
Hitting the showroom floor, the place was still a ghost town. I wish I could report more, but that is the reality. Once again, the benefit of that, great convos. The downside, not that much to see.
Highlights:
Tickmitt: Yup, you read this correctly, a mitt for ticks. While living in Lake Tahoe, I don’t have to worry about ticks, but on this road trip, checking Chestnut several times a day for ticks has been a headache.
Nestout: There is something satisfying about a plug-and-play system and Nestout just gave me a paradigm shift to what is possible with a portable charger.
Rogue Jerky: Growing up I was accustomed to beef jerky from my uncle’s farm and Rogue Jerky brought me back to my childhood with their premium jerky.
Hydrogen Water by Echo Flask: After a 20 minute chat I can say this is a wild idea. Drinking hydrogen water sounds like a 1%er kinda thing, but Echo Flask has made it accessible to everyone.
Toaks Outdoor: Looking for that ultra-lite gear for your next backpacking , thru-hike, or just casual outing? If you don’t already know Toaks, you must be living under a rock. They have the lightest gear on the market and it’s all made from titanium.
FKT Gear: Sunglasses for running and setting those FKTs. Okay, maybe that’s only for the pros and those addicted to Strava, but I can say the founder is a great guy that I enjoyed shooting the shit with for a little while. I hope it works out for Josh, his sunglasses are rad.
Things I Found Interesting:
There were several products operating under a licensed legacy name. I found this to be a great way into a market if you have a product, but I wonder what the long term trade-offs of this are?
Body wipes and electrolytes are on the rise. The last few years these industries have been hitting the ground hard as they jock for position in the market. While I am no market specialist, I would say the competition is fierce but there are some companies doing it well. Redmon Re-lyte has a solid chance at taking the market over if they lean into their story and focus on being a no sugar electrolyte mix.
A Final Thought:
While I am obviously disappointed about OR, I can say I got to chat with more companies for a longer amount of time than any other trade show. Hopefully, this means those connections will remember me and I will remember them. Shows like this can lead to a massive impact, but they can also lead to a lot of nothing. While I am not sure where this will go, I can say that I enjoyed connecting with the brands, sharing a few meals with other people, and can see myself staying in contact with a variety of these companies. Now, if I step back to the 10,000 foot level, connecting with humans in the industry is the purpose of these shows, right?
If that is the metric of success, than this was a great show. If it was landing clients, I am not so sure, but only time will tell.
Now that is a dirty dog!
One More Night, One More Shower
With yet another pile of business cards to upload into my CRM, I am happy to be back at the hotel and do some stretching. The long days of driving and exploring have left my body tight. The catch, Chestnut is all up in my face and even-though we gave him a bath yesterday he still stinks. So, I got up and gave him another shower only to see so much dirt streaming off of him. I had to yell to Kristin, “Babe, get your camera, this is crazy how much dirt is coming off of Chestnut!”
Together, we laughed.
Tomorrow, we hit the road again and head for Great Basin National Park.
Utah Here We Come, But, First, Let's Climb One More Time
After a full rest day and the burning desire to find a body of water to dip into, Kristin and I chatted over morning coffee about a game plan. The conclusion, wrap up the morning, pack up, go rock climbing for a half day, then head to a body of water somewhere around Salt Lake City.
After a full rest day and the burning desire to find a body of water to dip into, Kristin and I chatted over morning coffee about a game plan. The conclusion, wrap up the morning, pack up, go rock climbing for a half day, then head to a body of water somewhere around Salt Lake City.
A bit lost and confused looking for a rock climb. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
A Quick Climb
Most of the time I go climbing, I have a guidebook, but for City of the Rocks, I don’t own one. So, we were relying on Mountain Project to lead the way. Which is a great app for those who are visiting an area, but, the catch, without service and areas downloaded we had no pictures. During mid-week climbing days, The City of Rocks is empty, so we couldn’t really ask people which climb they were on for us to orient ourselves on the walls.
Walking around the Breadloaves, we looked for something to climb. Thankfully, we stumbled upon a family climbing and chatted with them about what they had been doing. Turns out, they were on the climbs we wanted to start the day with; Carol’s Crack (trad, 5.8). The only thing, the anchors were kinda sketchy with a thirty foot traverse to the right for Kristin to top rope once I climbed it. At least that is what we were told.
Accepting the warning, I slid into my shoes with a bit of pain. On my pinky toe, I had a scab forming from that random acid drop at the sand dunes in Winnemucca, NV and every time I put climbing shoes on, it tore it off a little bit. Scrunching my face in pain I slid into the left shoe, I was ready to quest up the warm up climb. As I tied in, my only thoughts were, hopefully this goes a hella lot better than our first climb two days ago.
Chestnut was tied up nearby and Kristin put me on belay. I was off.
Traditional climbing is my favorite kind of climbing because there is a craft in placing gear, mental strength, and, well, a sense of adventure. While during sport climbing you follow a bolt line, climbing on gear means you get to feel like you are the first person to climb this route. There are no bolts, the cracks are often dirty, and I get that feeling of wonder as I discover how to climb something.
Carol’s Crack is a cool climb with several cracks you can use to get to the top. The bottom is blocky and doesn’t protect well, but there are a few nut placements you can find. At the top, with the several cracks, you can easily protect most of the crack to the top. However, the anchor is 30 feet to the right, so you can’t really plug gear at the top if you plan to use them as the rope drag will be incredibly heinous.
Thankfully, I was warned by the family that this was the case and did everything I can to help Kristin safely top rope the route after me.
“Okay Kristin, you can lower me now.” I shouted with the multi-directional anchor fully built and ready to be lowered back to the ground.
At the bottom of the climb, Kristin and Chestnut greeted me with smiles. The day of climbing was already lightyears ahead of climbing two days ago. With everything set up for Kristin to warm up for the day, she got the case of the giggles. Maybe it was a throwback to her days as an Alpha Phi, but she started throwing peace signs and being silly as she tied into the rope.
Together we laughed and I went over what she needed to do at the top, once she climbed above the last piece of gear to avoid a cheese-grated swing. Lighthearted, yet focused, she understood the risk and headed up the climb, now fully blasted with wind.
Kristin soon to make the 30 foot traverse to the anchor of Carol’s Crack. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Questing her way up the start, Kristin started talking in silly voices, letting out her nerves with humor. Together we laughed as she made it over the bottom bulge and to the cracks. At first, the cracks stumped her, but she figured it out after a minute, or two, of trying different techniques.
After the last piece of gear, she began the traverse right, to the anchors. “That is SO far away.” She shouted.
“I know, but you got it!” I shouted back.
And Kristin continued across the slabby rock, reaching the anchors safely. Within the next minute she was back on the ground. Day two of climbing was actually off to a great start!
After the successful first climb, we climbed a handful of other routes on top rope using same anchor:
Flesh for Fantasy (mixed climb, 5.11a)
Adolescent Homosapien (best crack in City of Rocks I’ve climbed, trad, 5.7)
Maybe, just maybe, we could be climbers?!
To The Water We Go
Packing in the climbing gear for the rest of the trip, we started bouncing down the dirt roads away from City of the Rocks for Utah. Dreaming of rinsing off in a body of water, we set the GPS for a small town not far from Salt Lake City. While we are not city people, I needed to attend a work conference in the area, so off we went. But first, we stopped in the strangest town of Mantua.
When I say strange I mean the vibe is unlike anything I have experienced before. The people walking around all look the same, the houses are massive, and this reservoir is known to have a brain eating bacteria. The good news, at the time of arriving the brain eating bacteria were not present. So, I took a “shower” in the water, crossing my fingers I wouldn’t go crazy and gave Chestnut a bath because plumes of dirt trailed him every time he ran around.
Now, who is the strange one? Obviously me!
Accepting this, we both got clean and headed for the camping spot for the night.
Feeling refreshed after almost four days without a dip in water, I started the nightly routine of importing images, editing, and making notes about the day. Overall, today was a great day on the road and I am very happy that climbing was fun because two days ago I was ready to hang up my harness and never climb again. However, after today, I am excited for the next days of climbing.
Tomorrow will be an early morning as we head to Salt Lake City, so, for now, goodnight.
Creativity Is A Muscle You Can Develop As Well As Overwork
Creativity is a muscle, the more you use it the stronger it gets. But, you can also overuse the muscle and wear it out. For the last few years, I have been in a stage of extreme output for my creativity. Creating a short documentary now airing on PBS, three travel series totaling 27 episodes, a poetry book, an e-book to help other photographers grow their career, commercial photo and video campaigns, an assignment on every continent in a single year for both editorial and commercial outlets… the list continues. Looking back, I would do it all again, but I also have to admit, I am not surprised my creativity has been at a low.
Creativity is a muscle, the more you use it the stronger it gets. But, you can also overuse the muscle and wear it out. For the last few years, I have been in a stage of extreme output for my creativity. Creating a short documentary now airing on PBS, three travel series totaling 27 episodes, a poetry book, an e-book to help other photographers grow their career, commercial photo and video campaigns, an assignment on every continent in a single year for both editorial and commercial outlets… the list continues. Looking back, I would do it all again, but I also have to admit, I am not surprised my creativity has been at a low.
Taking this road trip around Idaho, Nevada, and Utah has been creatively rejuvenating because my only responsibility is to write and photograph each day. No video, thankfully! Yes, I love video, but the lift is heavier because you need more gear, editing takes longer, and audio is a thing. Meanwhile, focusing on photo and video, which allows me to hone my storytelling craft, is my favorite two mediums. Also, this trip has unlocked some fun creativity that makes me laugh.
I hope this makes you laugh! Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
When Creativity Strikes
In the van, we have the Trelino composting toilet and I have always had this idea to create an Instagram account called “delectable dumps”. Now, I haven’t followed through on this idea and most likely will never follow through, but I think the idea is funny. So, funny that on our rest day, I grabbed the toilet and set up a couple of images that are supposed to make people laugh around pooping in beautiful places, struggling to grab the toilet paper because of the wind, and honestly just good ole fashioned childish humor. Something I am certainly not too old to enjoy.
Outside of the poop jokes, I’ve had a handful of inquires around projects and creating. As a freelance photographer, writer, and filmmaker, I pay my bills with these jobs. So, when an inbound message comes, I am always happy to take a look at the offer and potential job. Most of my work these days are travel-related; tourism boards, expeditions, and the alike. And, today, I got a last minute inquiry from a tourism board.
We exchanged a few emails, hopped on a call, and in the end it wouldn’t work. I would’ve had to be in Ireland within 24 hours. While I wished it would have worked, I appreciated the inbound message (which went to my spam folder EEK), and hope there is something we can do together in the near future. The team I spoke with mentioned future opportunities, so fingers are crossed that it will work out. I’ll keep you all updated if something does happen. Maybe I can do a travel series like this one?
A few ways to promote creativity for myself that could be helpful for you:
Noise canceling headphones, I use the Sonos Ace, and listen to handpan music if writing. No words!
Have a clean space. No visual mess to distract your flow. This includes a phone. Honestly, this has been very hard in the van because I am used to a work station in a room all to myself.
A desk. I am not a fan of working on a bed, a couch, or laying down. Those places are for processing and relaxing.
Avoid TV, YouTube, and all social media. Yes, on this road trip, I have not watched any TV or scrolled social media. I do read books, but not on my phone. The reason, distractions. Falling into a wormhole on these platforms really gets me and I lose all creative drive, so avoid like the plague.
Kristin soaking in the stellar colors at sunset. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
An Easy Day With a Stunning Sunset
As the day continued, I logged some running miles, wrote countless words, edited images, played the game of telephone with that Ireland client (this honestly took over the entire day), and stretched. I wish I had more to say about today, but honestly, it was a relaxing day. Much needed after the shit-show of climbing we had yesterday and very helpful to start getting caught up on the emails, writing, and photo editing. While this road trip is a personal project with a few paying clients, I’ve noticed I can’t really go full adventure all of the time. To create and publish at a realistic rate I need downtime. Heck, even a simple journal entry like this takes about 2-3 hours to edit the images, write, edit the post, post, and share on social media.
A pattern I’ve noticed about work flow:
two days on - travel and adventure
one day off - to get work done
two days on - travel and adventure
two days off - to get work done
rinse and repeat
This made me laugh and slightly worried: Chestnut chased a cow for a long while. Starting at the van, he barked until the cow ran, then he chased it down a hill for about 10, maybe 15 minutes. The cow never charged him, just ran around bushes in the field. I really hope he doesn’t get kicked. Is that a thing, or is that only horses?
A day behind the computer goes quicker than I could ever imagine. Sunset was here and Kristin shouted to me, “grab your camera, this sunset is stunning!” She was right!
Keep Reading This Travel Journal Series:
Utah Here We Come, But, First, Let's Climb One More Time
We Came To City of Rocks To Climb, But Are We Really Climbers?
After graduating college I was lost and lived on the road. During that time, I fell in love with the physical and mental challenge rock climbing provided, but I never got that great in comparison to others who’ve dedicated the same amount of time to the craft. In my hay-day, I would on-sight low 5.11 and project harder 5.11 rock climbs. My base has always been an average 5.10- climber. But, rock climbing has expanded my mind on what is possible and places to explore. A prime example, visiting City of the Rocks. If I did not rock climb, there is no reason I would have visited this Idaho destination. Sure, it is pretty, has a historical connection to the California Trail, and there is some good hiking, but there are a lot more places in the world I would visit first. However, with my climbing gear taking up substantial space in the back of van, this stop was a no-brainer.
After graduating college I was lost and lived on the road. During that time, I fell in love with the physical and mental challenge rock climbing provided, but I never got that great in comparison to others who’ve dedicated the same amount of time to the craft. In my hay-day, I would on-sight low 5.11 and project harder 5.11 rock climbs. My base has always been an average 5.10- climber. But, rock climbing has expanded my mind on what is possible and places to explore. A prime example, visiting City of the Rocks. If I did not rock climb, there is no reason I would have visited this Idaho destination. Sure, it is pretty, has a historical connection to the California Trail, and there is some good hiking, but there are a lot more places in the world I would visit first. However, with my climbing gear taking up substantial space in the back of van, this stop was a no-brainer.
Coiling the fresh rope as we pack up and move to our next climb. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Our First Route Was A Disaster
Chestnut is the first dog Kristin has ever had and it is my first while living on the road. Together, we are newbie dog owners. Overall, I would say we provide Chestnut with a great life, filled with adventure, but I can’t say he is the best crag dog, yet. As we climb more, we learn more and this first route was a testament to that phrase.
After flaking our brand new Mammut 80m 9.5 dry rope (wow that is a mouth full), I quested off on the warm-up climb, Tail Feather (10a). After a few bolts I came to a slabby section that felt insecure and queue the disaster. As I am above my bolt and moving towards the next one, Kristin starts shouting for Chestnut, “Come back Chestnut. Hey! Chestnut, come back here!” Adding to the nerves I already had in the middle of this warm-up slab. My headspace dwindled and I knew if I whipped I would most likely smack my shins into the ledge below me.
“Kristin, please pay attention to me!” I shout down. We were becoming a shit-show at a crag. Thankfully, nobody else was around.
“Yeah, I got you. Chestnut just ran off.”
Big exhale, focusing, I make my way to the next bolt, pull out my PAS and clip directly into the bolt.
“Kristin, I’m in direct. You can take me off belay and go get Chestnut.”
Quickly, Kristin gets out of the belay and chases down Chestnut. The mistake, not tying Chestnut to something. A mistake we wont make again!
My nerves were still high as Kristin put me back on belay, but I wanted to finish the climb. My headspace was obliterated, Chestnut was now whining, and we were epicing on the warm-up climb. Not a great start to a day of climbing!
Thankfully, I made it to chains, set up the top rope, and returned to the ground safely.
Kristin, on top rope, just past the first bolt on the rock climb New York Is Not The City (10a). Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Getting Better With Time
After a longer-than-it-should-have-been debrief with Kristin, we moved along for more climbing. Many routes were taken, or didn’t have a place for Chestnut to lay in the shade during the 85+F temperatures, so we had to pass on them. For a while, I regretted having Chestnut without a van that has an AC unit and became envious of all the RVers who could leave their dog in the comfort of the AC while going for a day of rock climbing. But, this was all a learning lesson for us.
Our next climb was the right amount of scary mixed with fun. New York Is Not The City (10a), starts with a V1 boulder problem to about a 20-30 foot run out over a few 5.0 ledges. Then up about 6 more feet to your first bolt. I’ve gotta say, they could have given you two bolts before this just to prevent injuries. Starting up the bolted section, there are jugs to an overhanging section with good feet and a fun sequence that was deceptive. Up and down, up and back down, I was trying to figure out the sequence. Finally, I committed, made the cross body move, and passed through the crux of the route.
Once back on the ground, I was smiling. This route was much better than the first and I could feel the excitement of doing something hard building inside of me.
Pizza, Cows, and The City
Running out of water and snacks, we decided to call it a day and headed back to the van. There is a pizza spot just outside the boundary area of City of the Rocks that I had remembered being very good, so Kristin, who is gluten-free, gave me permission to head there and grab a personal pizza.
While scarfing down a large pizza to myself, we met a family that was traveling in a van from Boise. They often took weekend trips in their van, with two young kids, and a puppy, which gave Kristin and I a bit of hope for our future in the van. Also, they knew of a better camping spot on the other side of the City that was “five degrees cooler and didn’t have any bugs.”
They seemed trustworthy, so we packed up and headed to the other side of City of the Rocks. Passing lots of cows, getting views of the entire City, and finding a large green swath of grassy BLM land perfect to camp for the night.
Our new camping spot, all to ourselves. No bugs and cooler temps. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
A New Camping Spot
Needing to decompress from the day and consistent travel, we sprawled out at our campsite. Made jokes with each other about “are we really climbers?” and did some yoga to help the body recover. My belly was full of pizza, it was as good as I remember, and Chestnut ran around like a wild dog. He chased a few cows and we did our best to work on his recall. Yes, he is still a puppy, but we need to improve our training if we want to continue traveling with our adventure pup.
As the darkness came, we laid our heads down early, maybe 9:30pm, and drifted off into dreamland.
Continue Reading This Travel Journal Series:
Creativity Is A Muscle You Can Develop As Well As Overwork
An Adventure-Filled Road Trip Along Idaho's Highway 75
I have to be frank, I didn’t think Idaho was going to be very fun and begrudgingly agreed to this section of the road trip. It isn’t on Instagram, magazines don’t write about Idaho, and, well, I just think of potatoes when I think about Idaho. Asking a few long time locals if this is by design, they shook their heads agreeing and disagreeing. The best response I have gotten so far, “Idaho is out of the way. No major trucking routes that force you to pass through regardless. You go to Idaho by choice and most people would pick a different place in the US to go on vacation.” The response was spot on, but, I would say Highway 75 should be on somebodies road trip list because you can do just about anything an outdoorsy person would like to do during the day, then relax in a hot spring. Don’t believe me, read what we did today.
I have to be frank, I didn’t think Idaho was going to be very fun and begrudgingly agreed to this section of the road trip. It isn’t on Instagram, magazines don’t write about Idaho, and, well, I just think of potatoes when I think about Idaho. Asking a few long-time locals if this is by design, they shook their heads agreeing and disagreeing. The best response I have gotten so far, “Idaho is out of the way. With no major trucking routes, or highways, forcing drivers to pass through Idaho, people don’t randomly stumble upon Idaho. You go to Idaho by choice and most people would pick a different place in the US to go on vacation.” The response was spot on, but, I would say Highway 75 should be on somebody’s road trip list because you can do just about anything an outdoorsy person would like to do during the day, then relax in a hot spring at night. Don’t believe me, read what we did today.
Hot spring and river bathing at Kirkham Hot Springs. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Kirkham Hot Spring
From Pine Flat campground, we hit the road by 9:00am and stopped at Kirkham Hot Spring, which is open but under construction currently. Once this opens, it will be a stellar place for camping. Nomadix towels in hand, we made the walk in from the free road side parking to the hot springs. At first, you stumble upon a few pools inside of the day use area, these hot springs are comfortable and would be great for families with kids. The pools are warm, not hot, and shallow. I could see some kids playing in these pools while the adults enjoyed themselves, but these are not the best pools. If you want to enjoy the magic of soaking in Kirkham Hot Spings, keep going down the path and make a choice, down by the river or on the hillside.
The hot springs on the hillside were a bit more shallow and hot. Too hot for my liking. I felt as though I was burning my feet when I walked into it, but there were people soaking in them comfortably. Call me weak sauce, but I just couldn’t handle it. So, I headed to the river.
Down by the river, the hot water poured over the edge like a shower, so I did what any sane human would do… go “shower” in it. For sustainability reasons, I didn’t actually soap up and wash myself in the hot spring, but I was like a kid at an epic playground here. Near the shower, a slide was created by the mixture of algae and river smooth rock. Putting my hands to the sky, I attempted to slide down the 20 feet, but it turned into a butt scoot as the incline wasn’t really all that steep, but I had fun. And, that is the point of a road trip, right? To let the inner-kid come out and play. To stop taking life so serious and enjoy these little moments.
Finding a pool that worked for both Kristin and I—she wasn’t a fan of the shower, it got her hair wet—we enjoy the rushing of the river and soaked for about 20 minutes. Then, it was time to go rescue Chestnut from the van.
Driving down a random dirt road along Highway 75. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Dirt Road That Lead To No-Where
With a second pot of coffee made, we headed south along Idaho’s Highway 75. Winding through the mountains, a river always on one side of the road, this drive was breathtaking. Service was no where to be found and my downloaded music wasn’t working, so Kristin and I talked and drove. Wildflowers dotted the hillsides and there were patches of snow remaining from the winter season. Often, dirt roads shot off the main artery we were driving and at some point, my curiosity got the better of me.
Coming to a quick stop, banked right and headed down one of these random dirt paths somewhere north of Stanley. For about 10 minutes we drove towards no-where. Doing nothing but looking out the window and admiring the trees, the green grass, and clusters of wildflowers. Once we had gone far enough, we stopped and let Chestnut outside to play some catch. The little-big guy ran in circles, far too excited, his zoomies had him going crazy. Chasing sticks and balls, the nut-case barked at his own echo.
Kristin and I chased Chestnut around, laughing at his craziness, then loaded back into the van and headed for Stanley.
The cutest coffee shop in Stanley, ID. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Hang Up and Hang Out
Driving south on our road trip along Highway 75 in Idaho, the striking Sawtooth mountains stood to the west. Thankfully Kristin was driving at this point because I couldn’t stop staring at the summits that are calling to be climbed. Similar in look to the Teton Range, this range of mountains were inspiring to look upon because the sense of wonder and adventure began stirring inside of me. I want to pull out a map, find a guide book, and begin a climb. However, climbing in the Sawtooth Range will have to wait for another trip, one where we plan to head into the mountains by packing the right gear. For now, I will look at and dream of standing on one of these summits.
The best and worst rule a coffee shop could have. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Rolling into Stanley, Idaho, Kristin and I craved some more caffeine. Don’t judge if you are reading this closely. Yes, we shared two french presses of coffee this morning in our indestructible Hydroflask french press, perfect for road trips, and, now, I ordered a latte and Kristin ordered a cold brew. Let me do a little explaining… the french press is amazing because it is insulated and holds 32 oz of coffee. Which means, we (mostly me) consumed 64 oz of coffee throughout the morning because it stays warm for so dang long. Additionally, I ordered a latte because I love warm milk and ordering a steamer as a grown adult feels weird, so I do a latte. Okay, phew, now that I have defended my caffeine addiction, let’s get back to how cute this coffee pit stop was.
First, cash only. That is a win. Are they laundering money through this, my guess is no. But, any company that is “cash only” always makes me think something is going on here.
Second, no laptops. Sure, you can sit on your phone and not talk, but this rule of no laptops encourages conversations. As I looked around, yes, everyone was chatting. It worked! I love when coffee shops implement this rule.
Third, no laptops. I hate this as a digital nomad. I always want to post up at coffee shops and get my work done. It’s a great vibe, so I think no laptops is a stupid idea. You can’t win them all, right? However, as a community center this is awesome and I have to say, when you have the option of playing giant Jenga or corn hole or watch kids learn how to hula hoop, the no laptop rule makes sense. Rant done.
Could these two get any cuter? Kristin and Chestnut sharing a hammock. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Lakeside Hangs
Bouncing down the dirt road into Pettit Lake area, we didn’t know if we wanted to camp here. Then, we were lake side and there was one campsite available walking distance from the water and were like, “why would we go wild camp and not use the lake, when we could pay $22 for this spot and play in the water all day?” So, we pulled into the campsite. Full disclosure, my typical take on vanlife is to never pay for a campsite. I just don’t like doing it unless there is something extra special, like a grand view, added amenities, or access you don’t get otherwise. This spot ticked two of the three. So, we camped.
Inflating one of the SUPs, Kristin wanted to hang back to rest up from the long day of travel, Chestnut and I headed to Pettit Lake for a pup and SUP session. Oh yeah, that just came off the tongue nicely.
Chestnut fell in twice as the wind was crazy, but we found a calm cove to snap a cute photo together. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Chestnut leaped onto the board and we set off. In the distance I could see the wind was picking up, but whatever. We are here to adventure and adventure we must, so I paddled directly towards the wind and the mountains in the distance. Foolish, of course, but I did it. Chestnut clinched his paws to the board and we paddled over waves. The wind was using me like a sail. I was paddling, but we were not going forward. I paddled harder and a side gust slammed into the two of us. Chestnut fell into the water and I started to drift away.
Chestnut and I have practiced this several times, so he swam right at me. I paddled towards him, against the wind and in no time we were reunited. After another 10 minutes of paddling into the wind, I gave up, turned us around, and headed back to our starting point. In total we paddled for about 45 minutes and a little bit more than a mile was covered.
Back at the van and craving more adventure, Chestnut and I set off on a hike. We had no destination, so we just hiked for about 90 minutes and looked at nature. Honestly, moments like that are some of my highlights on road trips and vanlife living. No need to pull out a phone, or camera, to capture something. We just walked and enjoyed nature together.
Taking in the sunset from the middle of Pettit Lake, Idaho. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
I Try To Never Miss A Sunset
As the evening came quick after our adventures around Pettit Lake, I dropped Chestnut off with Kristin and grabbed the paddleboard for some alone time on the lake to watch sunset. If there was one life goal I could bestow upon myself it would be to try to never miss a sunset. The colors, the way it feels to watch the sun fade behind the landscape, all add up to an amazing feeling of wonder. So, in the middle of the lake, which was now calm, I pulled out my camera with a wide angle Tamron Lens and snapped a few frames.
Mountains, water, sunstar, and the tip of the paddleboard to remind me that I was sitting there in the middle of Pettit Lake. What a day, what a memory.
Sometimes, You Need A Full Day To Reset
We all have those days when the alarm goes off at 5AM and you hit snooze. The alarm goes off a second time and you hit snooze, again. Well, 5AM came and went for us this morning, finally crawling out from under the covers around 6:50-something. I missed sunrise. A trade-off I assumed was going to happen when going to be at 11:30PM the night before. Why? Getting distracted hanging in the hot spring, editing images, stretching since we have a campsite with an area perfect to put the yoga mat, and tapping away on the keyboard. Those are my excuses, the real reason, though, are the endless daylight hours of summer that are making so much room for activity, I just can’t bring myself to embrace the FOMO on daytime activities. So, I wait for the sun to set, roughly 9:30PM, right now, to start the editing and writing process. But, today is a little different.
We all have those days when the alarm goes off at 5AM and you hit snooze. The alarm goes off a second time and you hit snooze, again. Well, 5AM came and went for us this morning, finally crawling out from under the covers around 6:50-something. I missed sunrise. A trade-off I assumed was going to happen when going to bed at 11:30PM the night before. Why? Getting distracted hanging in the hot spring, editing images, stretching since we have a campsite with an area perfect to put the yoga mat, and tapping away on the keyboard. Those are my excuses, the real reason, though, are the endless daylight hours of summer that are making so much room for activity, I just can’t bring myself to embrace the FOMO on daytime activities. So, I wait for the sun to set, roughly 9:30PM, right now, to start the editing and writing process. But, today is a little different.
Posted up for the day, we even pulled the Tuffstuff Overlanding awning out. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
With the area explored the day before and a plan to stick around all day, there was no need to pack the van, drive for hours, blah, blah, blah. Nope, none of that travel-related stuff today, we are staying at the Pine Flats Campground and soaking up every minute to get caught up on work, mental health, trip planning, and some cleaning. So, we unfolded the Tuffstuff Overlanding 180 awning and got to work.
Not the most ideal work station, but, for the next week, call this our office. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
The Darkside of Vanlife… Work Days
Kristin took the front seat, our makeshift couch in the van (this could use a serious upgrade) and I took the yoga mat outside. As the workday passed by, like two boring adults, we changed positions a few times to avoid the glare on our screens as the sun moved higher in the sky. While boring, working on a road trip is a requirement for us to maintain our lifestyle. I mean, heck, I would love to hit the lottery and never have to send another email, but that would require me to play the lottery.
Gear I Need To Work Remotely On A Road Trip:
Slowing down time to a 1/4 of a second while funning. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Staying Fit On The Road Is More For The Mental Side Of Life
With the boring, yet, mandatory work day out of the way, it was time to start taking care of our bodies and mind. Lacing up our Hoka running shoes, me with the Skyflow and Kristin with the Speedgoats, we set off on a family run with Chestnut. A mixed run, trail and road, for a couple of miles.
Because I like to torture myself, I slung my camera over my shoulder for this run. There were a few photo ideas brewing that I wanted to capture and Kristin didn’t roll her eyes when I asked, so that was a good sign. As we ran, I tailed Kristin and Chestnut with a slow shutter speed, between 1/4 and 1/20th of a second, to capture a motion blur image. Who would have thought, but, trail running and looking at a camera is harder than it looks! However, one image turned out well.
That moment you look back and realize this is the composition of the day while out on a trail run. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
On our way out of the canyon and back to the van, I looked over my shoulder, only to see the best leading line of the day. Crawling up the hill and rapidly increasing the shutter speed, I was able to capture a running image of Kristin and Chestnut in the crazy landscape we had just jogged through. Stunning!
Kristin mesmerized by the waterfall hot spring at Pine Flat hot spring in Idaho. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
This Might Be The Most Epic Hot Spring In Idaho
During the middle of the day, Kristin went on a solo journey to find a “hidden” hot spring around the corner and a short scramble down a 3rd class cliff from where we were hot springing yesterday. Coming back with a massive smile, I knew she had found what she was looking for, so we packed our bags and headed for sunset.
When I say “hidden” what I really mean is this hot spring isn’t super popular because it is hard to access and there are about 6 other hot springs you’ll pass along the way that are warmer, but they all lack the grandness that this hot spring provides, like an epic waterfall shower. No joke, shower warm water falling roughly 20 feet and covering you like the ideal rain showerhead of luxury hotels. To top it off, there is river access so you can transition from hot to cold.
Sitting and chatting, Kristin and I go back and forth about moving back onto the road full time. We did it for three years together and it worked, but it was tough. Also, my creative process changed for me during that time, requiring more travel via plane, so moving into a house was the only thing that made sense. However, now, the creative industry is under a lot of pressure and seems quite uncertain. For myself, I feel lucky to have a strong rehire rate, roughly 92% in a five year cycle, but there is a strong desire to see where I could take a photo and writing format, like this one, in terms of business models. For now, we don’t plan to uproot our lives in Lake Tahoe, but love for the open road will always remain in our hearts as the endless possibilities often lead to the best adventures in life.
A surprise aurora showing in Idaho. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
Wait, Is That The Aurora in Idaho?
After our heart-to-heart, we dried off and navigated back to the van via headlamp. Admiring the stars and dark sky, to the north there was a hint of pink visible to the naked eye. After seeing the northern lights several times last year, I had a hunch this could be a very faint coloring of the aurora here in Idaho. So, I grabbed my tripod and camera to see what a long exposure image could capture.
Setting up the frame, increasing the shutter-speed to 25 seconds, opening the aperture to f/2.8, a few more minor tweaks of the framing to capture more of the trees, now pulling the focus on the stars, I pressed the shutter and waited.
25 seconds of light captured. 25 seconds for the camera to process the light captured.
There they were, the northern lights, right here in Idaho on a random Thursday night.
Up Next On This Travel Journal Series:
An Adventure-Filled Road Trip Along Idaho's Highway 75
Slowing Down To Meet The Moment
The morning light warmed my face through the open door. Blinking my eyes open, I found Chestnut staring at me, panting, and the van’s surfaces to have a layer of fine dust coating every surface. This must be what it was like to live in the Dust Bowl, I thought to myself as I grabbed my camera in hopes of capturing something in this golden light. Kristin was up as well, so all three of us wandered down to the water’s edge, without caffeine in our systems, not really saying a word. Chestnut wanted to play. I wanted to photograph. Kristin just looked out at the nature with a smile on her face.
The morning light warmed my face through the open door. Blinking my eyes open, I found Chestnut staring at me, panting, and the van’s surfaces to have a layer of fine dust coating every surface. This must be what it was like to live in the Dust Bowl, I thought to myself as I grabbed my camera in hopes of capturing something in this golden light. Kristin was up as well, so all three of us wandered down to the water’s edge, without caffeine in our systems, not really saying a word. Chestnut wanted to play. I wanted to photograph. Kristin just looked out at the nature with a smile on her face.
First Sunrise On The Road
For the six years prior to this road trip, all of my personal projects carried a sense of urgency because I wanted to build a career in photography around travel and adventure. Starting late with a camera, at 22 years old and not taking it “serious” until 24, I had no time to waste. Years behind my peers and lightyears behind my idols, every location I visited I was motivated to “create something worth while”. No fluff, no fun, only straight to the point. Yes, I played, but the play was always intentionally focused on building a portfolio worth sharing. I scoffed at the idea of taking cute photos to tell a story and often beat myself up if an image was “perfect”. In the beginning, I understood the importance of holding yourself to a higher standard, but this desire for perfection and comparison to others started to squash my creativity. At times, an internal weight so heavy I considered giving up on the career.
So, on a relatively average morning in a place most would look at and say, “there is nothing here” certainly triggered me to snap a few photos. Those years of photographing every second of everyday are in the past, unless I am on an assignment, however, with my camera in hand I wanted to create something, so I pulled out the tools in my toolbelt and:
Attached a neutral density filter to the lens and slowed the shutter speed down between 1/6 and 1/2 second to create a motion blur panning image
Switched lenses to the Tamron 70-180mm G2 and found a high saturation area of the lake, got down on my knees, and focused on compressing the distant mountain range with the golden lake water as the foreground
Stood up, slowed the shutter speed down once more to soften the slushing water and focused on the heavily shadowed weeds growing out of the muddy lake bottom
As I write this, I want to defend myself against the critics who will “call out” the average images, but the reality is these are the images that presented themselves this morning. This is what I saw when I woke. This is what walking next to the Pitt-Taylor Dam reservoir during a golden sunrise is like. So, there is no need to sequester them away in my archive like a squirrel hiding nuts for the winter.
With enough images from the morning, I headed back to the van, and started to pack up. It was time to move along to the next destination. Photograph, move, photograph… that is the lifestyle I have conditioned myself to do. Yet, Kristin forced (yes, strong word, but well-placed in this case) me to go for a walk and talk. My rushing was for no reason. It wasn’t even 7am. Yet, I had made bad coffee because I didn’t want to wait, we hadn’t had breakfast, packed up, did some “yoga” because I was waiting, and stressed myself out about making it to our next location without knowing where that location was going to be for the day.
Just before driving over the Pitt-Taylor Dam, a perfect leading line to the mountains in remote Nevada. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
After our walk, we took a little bit more time around the area and then headed out. Along our slow and bumpy drive, I launched my drone into the sky to capture the two bodies of water split by the Pitt-Taylor Dam. Compared to the day before, this flight was windless and clear as far as the eye could see. Flying around brought me joy as I saw pelicans, stunning landscapes, and beauty in a place I would often overlook.
Our next stop would be a few hours north, for a short and quick micro-adventure.
Winnemucca Sand Dunes
A perfect example of when reality doesn’t meet expectation. We stopped at the Winnemucca Sand Dunes, a random collection of sand dunes along the Highway 95, to run around the dunes, hopefully go sledding or sand-boarding, but we quickly realized that was not going to be the case.
After parking and walking up the gradual slope of our first sand dune, Kristin and I looked at each with a nervous smile, “Surely we aren’t going to sliding down this!”
The dunes were a fun stop, pretty as well, but not what the images online made this place look like. Which is okay, this was a random micro-adventure along our day two journey, so we had to try and I tried! Like a foolish little boy overeager to slide down the dunes, we found the steepest section of the dune and sent it.
First, on my butt. That didn’t work.
Second, standing. That didn’t work.
Third, an acid drop onto the slope… faceplant.
That last attempt covered me in sand, cut open my pinky toe (maybe I shouldn’t have been shoeless), and had both Kristin and I laughing at my foolishness. While silly, I think this did set us up for the next hour of trying while not succeeding. The barriers fell away and we ran around with Chestnut, attempted to slide other slopes that still didn’t work, jumped off the ledge, and just laughed together.
After a while, the sun started to beat down upon us and the sand. Worried about Chestnut’s feet we set course across the dunes back to the van and lunch.
The dishes damage from our quick lunch of finishing left overs. Photograph by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram.
The Not So Subtle Reminder That Things Add Up Quickly
It’s easy for me to get philosophical when tapping away at a keyboard and living within 72 square feet, but nothing was more obvious than the pile of dishes practically falling out of the bar sink after our “quick lunch”. Clearing out the refrigerator of our leftovers, we piled everything together for a caprese, brisket salad. Weird, yes. But, it worked and the dishes were stacked high.
Word of the wise, don’t let things build inside or leave a trail of messes, you’ll have to clean them up at some point. Tackle them head on now, so they don’t come up and bite you in the rumper later.
You’re welcome for the random diatribe and mansplaining. I’ll be here until the 25th.
Watching Rain Drip Down The Windshield
With the dishes done, we hit the road, north. After our sweaty and sandy outing, we needed to rinse off in some water. Zooming in and out of Google Maps, we found a river spot a few hours north, near Rome. Not the Rome most would think about when you say “I visited Rome” but a no-stoplight kinda farm town with a dramatic plateau lining the Owyhee River. Fun fact, this river is part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers designation and I photographed a campaign for Adventure Scientist back in 2021/22 for one of their data collection projects in the Pacific Northwest.
Turning off the highway, we headed to a boat launch and camping spot. With no intention of staying for more than a quick dip, we parked the van, found out the camping was free, and took a dip right away. Cooled down, a summer rainstorm came thundering across the landscape and started to pour rain. Sitting inside, looking out, we had two options; hit the road or sit and enjoy. We picked the second option.
Braving the rain, we set up Starlink and started getting some work done as the storm rained down on the windshield.
SUPing The Owyhee River
Once the thunder rolled away and our work was done for the day, I crawled into the van’s garage to pull out the stand-up paddle-boards. It was time to enjoy this river a little bit more. With a low flow and fish jumping, we pushed off the sandy bank. Kristin started with Chestnut and I paddled solo with a camera. I’m always worried to have the camera and Chestnut at the same time on the paddle-boards as he is a bit spontaneous, potentially flipping us, and swamping the camera. However, once I tuck away the camera into the dry-bag the worries are gone.
More than an hour passed as we paddled up the river and floated back to our starting place. Our bellies were grumbling for dinner, Chestnut was over the paddle-boards, and it was time to start settling in for the night.
Read Day Three:
The Summer Storm That Made a Photography Dream Come True
Packing Up Always Takes Longer Than Expected
Clothing, kitchen, coffee, SUPs, rock climbing gear, dog necessities all needs to fit into 72 square feet as well as Kristin, Chestnut (our 60 pound dog), and myself. It’s tight, our cabinets are often full, and adventure awaits us. Packing the van is a given when you go on a vanlife road trip like we are doing around Nevada, Idaho, and Utah, but there are so many little things you forget about until it is time to leave like finding someone to water your plants, cleaning the house so you can come home to a cleanish house, putting the mail on hold, and all that “adult” stuff we didn’t think about as kids. Growing up, road trips were a staple. Every holiday, besides Christmas, that I wasn’t swimming, the family packed up our “toys” and went somewhere in an RV. None of these RVs were fancy, but they got the job done. So, maybe that is why I love to road trip as much as I do, or, maybe it’s the freedom of the open road. I don’t really know, however this morning made it clear packing always takes longer than expected.
Clothing, kitchen, coffee, SUPs, rock climbing gear, dog necessities all needs to fit into 72 square feet as well as Kristin, Chestnut (our 60 pound dog), and myself. It’s tight, our cabinets are often full, and adventure awaits us. Packing the van is a given when you go on a vanlife road trip like we are doing around Nevada, Idaho, and Utah, but there are so many little things you forget about until it is time to leave like finding someone to water your plants, cleaning the house so you can come home to a cleanish house, putting the mail on hold, and all that “adult” stuff we didn’t think about as kids. Growing up, road trips were a staple. Every holiday, besides Christmas, that I wasn’t swimming, the family packed up our “toys” and went somewhere in an RV. None of these RVs were fancy, but they got the job done. So, maybe that is why I love to road trip as much as I do, or, maybe it’s the freedom of the open road. I don’t really know, however this morning made it clear packing always takes longer than expected.
And we are off… after a few stops
Around noon, we were packed, but a few stops still needed to be made. Kristin’s parents house to drop the plants off. Whole Foods to return a poor Amazon purchase. Target for batteries and a few essentials. Trader Joe’s for food. Walmart for shelf organizers (our cabinets were a mess). Costco for gas. Schatt’s Bakery in Reno for our favorite bread and some sweet treats.
The clock continued to tick as we made each stop. Overall, I would consider myself a laid back traveler, but today I was nothing but a ball of anxiety. My head kept spinning that we were running late and were not going to “make it anywhere”. I wanted to rush, check the boxes, and move along, but the reminder that “slow is fast” also raddled around in my head. Maybe missing my morning meditation was taking a toll on me, or the lack of road trips in the past two years. That go with the flow attitude seemingly was tossed out the window, I was a ticking time bomb.
Thankfully, the end of errands came.
Dropping off our plants, in a bucket, for Kristin’s parents. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
On The Road At 3PM
3:00pm; it’s finally time to hit the road and make our way through Northern Nevada into Idaho.
Our planning for this trip was different than most. We didn’t create a day to day itinerary, instead we plotted a course on Google maps, then found places along that route we wanted to visit. With a goal to stop as much as possible for micro-adventures, we were not sure where we day one would take us. Our original goal was Pyramid Lake, but we didn’t realize there was a permit system, so we kept driving north.
We did not have a destination in mind for sleeping, as we didn’t know how far we would get, but the land outside of the window was barren, spotted with green bushes that Chestnut enjoyed looked at. The speed limit signs read 75 miles per hour. Most town exits reminded you gas was a long ways off if you didn’t fill up now, often stating “Next Fuel 83 miles”, with some longer and some shorter stretches. But, we didn’t care as the indie folk playlist was queued with Lord Huron, Mumford and Sons, Ben Howard, Gregory Alan Isakov, and many more iconic artists curating the perfect mood for a road trip.
Finding Home For The Night In A Dust Storm
As the day’s light began to fade, we decided to take a risk on a wild camping spot at the Pitt-Taylor Dam in the middle of, well, nowhere. The only pieces of civilization we could see on the map was a prison about an hour drive away and the highway. I think that sums up most of the driving in Nevada. If you are not in Las Vegas, or Reno, you’re in no man’s land. Which, is strangely of comforting for me. Yes, I am an introvert, so being away from people is how I charge my batteries, however, the responsibility of self-preservation is always a nice touch. In many ways, this provides me with a heightened sense of respect for the places I travel, because I know the consequences become greater the farther removed one becomes. And, with the impending summer storm, that awareness was omnipresent.
The drone could barely hold its own in the sky, so this flight was short and to the point to capture an image of the van heading directly into the oncoming storm with an impenetrable dust front. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Bouncing down the one-lane dirt road, the van swayed side-to-side with each gust of wind. Dust pelted the side of the van with the continuous audible onslaught, tin-tin-tin-tin. Kristin and I wanted to drive fast, to find a spot to park the van, so we could begin the process of unwinding from the day, but the washboard road prevented rapid forward progression. Instead, we settled for a 10 mph crawl that felt even slower after the hours speeding along the highway at 75 mph. However, we made it. Nobody was insight, for a little while.
Where the open road meets the storm somewhere in Nevada. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Pulling into the lot and hopping out of the van for a quick stretch of the legs to find the “perfect parking spot” we watched the storm clear overhead and the sun come out. Gusts of wind still barraged us with dust, coating the inside and outside of the van, but we had found a place to lay our heads for the night. So, the unwinding process began:
Cook dinner; tonight was caprese salad with left over brisket from my parents
Set up Starlink
Stretch; I call this yoga, but really it is three cycles of Sun Salutation B
Finish any work that is outstanding/couldn’t be finished on the drive; tonight this had to wait, my body takes priority, I was going for a run
A Quick Run and Lake Dip
My busy brain wouldn’t stop. As a kid, the only thing that got rid of this was going for a swim. Today, the body movement is choice is still swimming, ideally 2 to 3 miles, but on road trips that isn’t always possible, so I run. Running isn’t easy for me, nor is it easy in a van because you get sweaty and we don’t have a shower in the van, so, I only run when there is a body of water to dip into. Thankfully, this campsite opens to a man-made lake. Yes, the lake is pretty much a mud bath, but I can deal with that later on. For now, it was time to put my headphones in (I forgot mine, so I borrowed Kristin’s) and set off.
When running, I listen to music or podcasts. For this evening’s run I started a podcast with Kyle Thierman and Chris Burkard about photography, surfing, creativity, and family. As my feet moved under me, this interview sucked me in and I lost track of what I was doing. My focus drifted into the conversation and I did everything I could to be a sponge, a fly-on-the-wall, soaking up as much knowledge as possible. As somebody who is self-taught in the photo and writing industry, any glimpse I can get into how somebody became who they are really helps me understand my own journey. So, podcasts like this one really help me improve my craft and understanding of the industry.
Zoned into the podcast and out of the run, the sun was setting as I arrived back to the van. Sweating, I grabbed a towel and headed directly for the muddy waters to cool down and rinse off. It worked… kind of.
It’s Late, But I Still Need To Write
Feeling clean enough to return to the van, I sloshed my way back home. It was late; 9:30 ish, but I still needed to upload the images, cull the images, color them, export, and then upload into this document. Then, write. Need is a strong word here. Nobody is requiring me to write about this journey or share these images. I am here for me, but I also made a promise to myself that I would try something different on this road trip.
A daily article to bring readers along for the journey.
That is what I have set out to create on this road trip. Will it happen, I hope so. However, 11:30pm came quickly, the images are edited, but the words are not done. I don’t have the perseverance to start writing an article at 11:30pm so, tomorrow I will have to finish putting words to paper. Digital paper that is. For tonight, I have done enough.
Goodnight.
Read Day Two:
Slowing Down To Meet The Moment
Traveling To Egypt Anytime Soon With a Camera?
I paired up with Tamron Americas to bring to life a 1500 word guide, filled with images, about photographing historical monuments in Egypt. This story is focused on sailing/cruising the Nile, visiting the ancient sites of Luxor, visiting museums, and, of course, photographing the pyramids.
Personally, this project was one in a lifetime, as I achieved a childhood goal of visiting every continent. Finishing with Egypt, a childhood fascination, I couldn't be more in shock. Before I write any more of a sob story about achieving childhood dreams, here is a taste of the article:
I paired up with Tamron Americas to bring to life a 1500 word guide, filled with images, about photographing historical monuments in Egypt. This story is focused on sailing/cruising the Nile, visiting the ancient sites of Luxor, visiting museums, and, of course, photographing the pyramids.
Personally, this project was one in a lifetime, as I achieved a childhood goal of visiting every continent. Finishing with Egypt, a childhood fascination, I couldn't be more in shock. Before I write any more of a sob story about achieving childhood dreams, here is a taste of the article:
Screenshot of the article on Tamron’s website.
How To Photograph Historical Landmarks In Egypt
Photographing historical landmarks in Egypt requires tough decisions—starting with what to pack. My bag is ready, but weight is a problem. I’m headed along the Nile River from Cairo to Abu Simbel with the goal of capturing Egypt’s iconic landmarks through my lens. But the plane’s strict weight limits mean I can’t take everything I want.
Now comes the hard part. Do I ditch clothing and smell? Do I leave a few camera essentials behind? Maybe no computer? Hmm… Staring at my bags on the floor, I know the answer. I don’t want to admit it, but I have to. Laughing, I accept my reality and say to myself: Well, I’m just going to smell bad while I am photographing Egypt.
By Guest Contributor Dalton Johnson
What You’ll Learn in This Post:
How to photograph historical landmarks in Egypt from Cairo to Abu Simbel
Essential travel photography gear for harsh environments and museum interiors
Tips for shooting iconic sites like the Pyramids, the Sphinx, and ancient temples
Techniques for low-light photography inside tombs and crowded museums
How to balance capturing images with fully experiencing each location
Finish reading the article at the link below:
https://tamron-americas.com/blog/photograph-historical-landmarks-egypt/
Special thanks goes out to Abercrombie & Kent USA , Mohamed Rehim, and Ahmed Mahgoub for the on the ground support and education.
An Evening Surf With Santa Cruz Local Pro Austin Smith Ford And Dermatone
Without much daylight left, local surf-pro, Austin Smith-Ford, waxes his board for an evening of surf a few miles north of Santa Cruz, CA. A local’s only spot where you’ll surely be yelled at if you can’t say “hey” to at least a few surfers in the line up.
Sunscreen… check
Wetsuit… check
Surfboard… check
Waves… check
Sunset… soon to come
Without much daylight left, local surf-pro, Austin Smith-Ford, waxes his board for an evening of surf a few miles north of Santa Cruz, CA. A local’s only spot where you’ll surely be yelled at if you can’t say “hey” to at least a few surfers in the line up.
Austin Smith-Ford waxing his surfboard before heading into the ocean to surf. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Product image of Dermatone Sunscreen, the sponsor of this adventure photography shoot. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Austin taking in the sunset views between sets of waves, he’s the last one out. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Staying late rewarded Austin with stellar golden light. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
One final wave to catch before nightfall. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
The motion of the ocean over 1 second. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
From Paddle to Plunge, A Sunset Kayaking Adventure on Lake Tahoe
Golden light coats the largest natural lake in California and blankets the Emerald Range lining the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. From Pope Beach, looking north across the lake reminds me of being in a cove opening to the ocean. Kristin inflates her Bote kayak and begins the short paddle to her ideal destination during this sunset.
Golden light coats the largest natural lake in California and blankets the Emerald Range lining the eastern shore of Lake Tahoe. From Pope Beach, looking north across the lake reminds me of being in a cove opening to the ocean. Kristin inflates her Bote kayak and begins the short paddle to her ideal destination during this sunset.
Kristin looking towards the pole a short paddle from shore she wants to jump off this sunset. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Not far from shore, a pole with a ladder protrudes from Lake Tahoe’s crystal clear water. That is the destination for the evening. A paddle and plunge, at sunset.
Beginning the short paddle to pole off the shore of Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Climbing the pole to leap off of in South Lake Tahoe. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Kristin leaping into the sunset in South Lake Tahoe, CA. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
When the day is done, the calm lake rewards us with a stunning final light. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on IG
Climbing For Furley Is Now Streaming On PBS
Climbing for Furley follows Northern California resident, Epic Bill Bradley as he attempts to climb Mount Denali after the loss of his best friend, Furley. Bradley is an ultra-endurance athlete who has held world records and completed several mind-blowing races like Ride Across America, a quadruple Bad Water, double Ironman, and many hundred mile races.
I’m excited to share that my first short documentary, Climbing for Furley, is now streaming on PBS.
This documentary follow Northern California resident, Epic Bill Bradley as he attempts to climb Mount Denali after the loss of his best friend, Furley. Bradley is an ultra-endurance athlete who has held world records and completed several mind-blowing races like Ride Across America, a quadruple Bad Water, double Ironman, and many hundred mile races.
Bill’s motto: Show Up and Suffer!!! Yes, the three exclamation points are part of his trade mark. If you ever text with Bill, you’ll find that out. Is contagious, so it only makes sense that his personality shines though in this short documentary.
Stream Climbing For Furley on PBS:
https://www.pbs.org/show/climbing-for-furley/
Photo Essay from Project
Using Spec Work To Land New Photography Clients
While road tripping down the Pacific Coast Highway, just north of Santa Cruz, CA, I asked Kristin Riegel if she would be open modeling for a spec shoot for Blundstone while we stopped at Sharkfin Cove for sunset. She looked at me with a smile, “I’m ugly right now, but of course I will.” For the past three years, Kristin has always been there for me and the building of my career. For this, I am forever grateful ❤️
While road tripping down the Pacific Coast Highway, just north of Santa Cruz, CA, I asked Kristin Riegel if she would be open modeling for a spec shoot for Blundstone while we stopped at Sharkfin Cove for sunset. She looked at me with a smile, “I’m ugly right now, but of course I will.” For the past three years, Kristin has always been there for me and the building of my career. For this, I am forever grateful ❤️
Pulling into the dirt parking we get our first glimpse of the Sharkfin Island in the middle of the cove. My mind was blown, people were swarming the area, and Kristin was looking a bit hesitant to be in front of the camera. Yet, she pulled herself up by her Blundstone straps and was a perfect model.
Kristin playfully posing for a photograph at sharkfin cove. Photo by Dalton Johnson, go follow him on Instagram
With three shot ideas, we headed for the most simple to the most challenging.
First Look: An overlook of the cove similar to a stereotypical influencer style shot that showcased the boots.
Second Look: The above shot.
Final Look: A playful feel showcased by cartwheel on the beach during blue hour.
SNAP. SNAP. SNAP.
If you know anyone at Blundstone USA, I’d appreciate you forwarding this post to them. I’ve connected with a few people but have never had the opportunity to share the images with them. Thanks 🙏
What is Spec Work in Photography?
Speculative work—commonly known as "spec work"—in photography refers to creating images for a project without a guaranteed payment or client commitment upfront. It’s essentially a pitch: a photographer shoots and delivers work in the hopes of impressing a brand or potential client enough to earn a future paid opportunity. Spec work can take the form of mock advertising campaigns, lifestyle shoots showcasing a product, or travel and outdoor content created as if it were commissioned by a specific company.
What is Spec Work Used For?
Photographers often use spec work to build portfolios that attract their ideal clients. For example, if you want to work with outdoor gear companies, you might photograph your own backpacking trip and frame the images in a way that aligns with the brand's visual identity. Spec work demonstrates your ability to tell compelling visual stories, understand branding, and create commercial-quality content.
Brands sometimes use spec work to vet photographers, especially in competitive fields like product, fashion, or adventure travel photography. It gives them a low-risk way to gauge your style, professionalism, and whether your work aligns with their brand. However, it's important to be cautious—some companies try to take advantage of photographers by using spec work without paying. Make sure to watermark or limit resolution unless usage is clearly agreed upon.
How to Land Photography Clients Using Spec Work
Create with Purpose: Don’t just shoot random subjects. Choose brands you admire and design a shoot that mirrors their aesthetic and target audience. Research their style guides, colors, and tone. Make your spec shoot feel like it belongs on their website or Instagram feed.
Pitch Strategically: Once you’ve created strong spec work, pitch it to the brand with a short email or message. Highlight how your work aligns with their mission, include a few thumbnail images or a link to a polished portfolio, and suggest how you can add value on future campaigns.
Post and Tag: Share your spec images on social media and tag the brands. Use relevant hashtags and write captions that tell a story or highlight how the product was used. Brands often notice and reach out if your content fits their vibe.
Be Professional: Treat spec work like a paid gig. Show up with quality, creativity, and consistency. If a brand sees you’re serious and skilled, they’re more likely to hire you when the next campaign rolls around.
A Bob Ross Like Morning At Wild Willy Hot Springs In Mammoth, CA
Before the sun rose, we had our shorts on, bags packed, and towels slung over our shoulder. Andrew has the behemoth Muse Roamer that allows for a very plush life on the road, meanwhile I have modest comforts with a converted van. So, I crawled out of the van and headed into the heated Muse Roamer to enjoy coffee to wait for the best lighting.
No matter what, soreness sets in while living on the road. Between sitting in one place for hours driving to pushing my bodies limits while exploring whatever landscape surrounds me, at the end of everyday, I find I’m sore. No matter how much yoga I do or the number of rest days I take, soreness is omnipresent. So, when Andrew Muse suggested we take a morning and hit the hot springs outside of Mammoth, CA along Highway 395, I wasn’t going to complain.
About a month before this, Andrew and I had met up to work on a collaboration project for the release of the Ford Bronco Ambassador program. Andrew was one of the ambassadors and I was the filmmaker & photographer hired to create the promo assets for the launch. With manufacturing delays on the Broncos, we were bound stateside for about a month, so Andrew and I decided to road trip along Highway 395 in California before starting the project for Ford in Baja, Mexico. After several days hiking, climbing, and paddle-boarding we decided it was finally time to take a rest day and catch up on some edits. Which catches us back up to this morning.
Before the sun rose, we had our shorts on, bags packed, and towels slung over our shoulder. Andrew has the behemoth Muse Roamer that allows for a very plush life on the road, meanwhile I have modest comforts with a converted van. So, I crawled out of the van and headed into the heated Muse Roamer to enjoy coffee to wait for the best lighting.
Just before the sky started to pop off, we left the warmth of the heated Muse Roamer and headed into the chilly fall mornings in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. If I were to guess, it was 36 to 39f outside, but without a thermometer, nobody will know. I can say, everything was frosted over and walking barefooted with very uncomfortable.
This morning, we were going to photograph a short photo essay for Klean Kanteen and Visit Mammoth centered around Wild Willy Hot Springs. For those of you who haven’t been along this stretch of highway, let me paint a Bob Ross styled painting for you all.
Grand mountains surround our campsite as far as the eyes can see. Plumes of steam from the hot springs rise into the early morning. Little shrubs make up the flora as well as the rolling hills in Owen’s Valley. This volcanic heated land attracts outdoor people alike; skiers, rock climbers, trail runners, bikers (the kind who pedal), and those who enjoy a stroll through the woods with a backpack. The early morning colors of reds and oranges make your jaw drop, meanwhile the glowing yellow sunsets calm the soul as the mountains cast their shadows upon you.
Sunrise from the parking lot of Wild Willy’s Hot Spring. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
One of the many peaks in the surrounding area reflected in a seasonal pool of mineral water. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Andrew and his dog, Kicker, walk to the hot springs in Mammoth, CA under a spectacular sunrise. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
The long walk to the hot springs under the colorful sky of a California morning. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
While the color in the sky has faded, the hot spring of Wild WIlly’s are calling our names. Especially with the bonus of nobody else being here. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Andrew testing the water and Kicker keeping a close eye on his Dad. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Andrew contemplating life, or searching for ski lines in the distance. Andrew grew in popularity as a professional snowboarder before hurting himself. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Staying hydrated while in a hot spring is key, so always pack a water bottle. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Rarely can you get these hot springs to yourself, but somehow Andrew and I scored this morning. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
That longing look from Kicker letting Andrew know he wants to join and be closer to his Dad. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Kicker Dog letting Andrew know he wants to join in the soaking. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Andrew and Kicker are inseparable, these two have traveled the world together and I don’t see that stopping any time soon. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
Steam rolling off the main pools of Wild Willy Hot Spring and I utilize a long exposure to capture the moving water. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
As the morning photoshoot with Andrew comes to a close and I can finally settle into the hot spring, pour myself a cup of hot tea, and relax for now. We will have the rest of the day to edit images and deliver to our clients, but then we will have to pack up our rigs and start heading back to San Diego to pick up the Ford Bronco and begin our project south of the border.
A celebratory cheers to a morning photo shoot done well. Photo by Dalton Johnson, follow him on Instagram
The First Surf Image That Gave Me Faith I Could Do This Photography Thing
Getting a start as a creative is no easy task, especially when you don’t have a clue as to what you want to do, create, or, most importantly, enjoy. As a kid, I always thought I would be an author, which I became about a month ago with my first book, but the idea of “becoming a photographer” never crossed my mind. Becoming a filmmaker was not something I ever talked about with my family growing up, but my first documentary won a few awards at film festivals last year. So, what the heck did I do as a kid?
Getting a start as a creative is no easy task, especially when you don’t have a clue as to what you want to do, create, or, most importantly, enjoy. As a kid, I always thought I would be an author, which I became about a month ago with my first book, but the idea of “becoming a photographer” never crossed my mind. Becoming a filmmaker was not something I ever talked about with my family growing up, but my first documentary won a few awards at film festivals last year. So, what the heck did I do as a kid?
I played my heart out in water.
Sunset surf at Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz, CA. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Growing up near a lake and swimming competitively, I loved the water. Still do. Some might say I lived in water as I practiced 3-5 hours a day during high school and college. However, when I was 8, I had the opportunity to learn how to surf in Baja and fell in love. Not your typical love, either. I used to download the cams off pipeline off LimeWire — anyone remember this platform? I looked, it still exists — as a kid and upload that to my iPod video and watch it going to bed. Yeah, that kind of love.
So, when I started this process of “becoming a creative” I spent all of my money on a water housing for my camera so I could be closer to the sport. Every morning and every evening I would get in the water and shoot until my memory card was full or the battery died. Then, during the night, I would edit those images and see what I came up with.
This image here, from Steamer Lane, was one of the earlier photographs I remember taking and being like, “Wow, that is cool!” Maybe it was the frozen hands, numb lips, or just desire to see something different, but this image was one of the first images that gave me hope I was moving in the right direction.
Outside of my own thoughts, many peers — mostly on Instagram at the time — gave me a lot of encouragement to keep going, keep shooting, and keep up the grind. Fast forward 8 years, I still look at this image and smile.
