Welcome to Hard Shadows. This space is where I translate the echoes of military-related PTSD into the stark language of black and white photography—a practice I call ‘Dirt Therapy.’ It’s a visceral process, a journey into the grays between black and white where I grapple with my past and search for a semblance of peace.
Dirt Therapy isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about grounding myself in the tangible world. It’s about the crunch of gravel beneath my boots on a forgotten path, the dust illuminated in the shafts of light piercing a crumbling structure. These places—scarred by time and neglect—offer a strange comfort in their isolation. In the quiet of these spaces, I find a solace that the world outside refuses to offer. I listen to the wind whispering through broken windows, nature reclaiming the forgotten and abandoned. In these moments, I feel a profound connection to something larger than myself—a link to the earth and a yearning for the wisdom of those who once stood on this very ground.
Dirt Therapy has taught me to appreciate the beauty and peace etched in the scars left by nature and humanity. I hope these images resonate with reflections of your own journeys and inspire you to view the world through new perspectives. What truths will you uncover in these shadows?
Be well,
~Paul Smith
“Fear is the monster that destroys our dreams.”
ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAH
As a photographer drawn to the timeless elegance of black and white imagery, I’m captivated by the stark beauty of this towering cliff face in Zion National Park. The absence of color emphasizes the interplay of light and shadow, texture, and depth. The black and white palette highlights the cross-bedded sandstone, guiding the eye across the graceful designs etched into the rock face over millennia by wind and water, leaving behind a stunning tapestry created by nature.
In the lower right corner, a solitary tree, reaching 40-50 feet, clings tenaciously to life. Despite its impressive stature, the tree appears diminutive against the immense cliff face, serving as a poignant reminder of nature’s scale and grandeur. Its roots find purchase in seemingly inhospitable rock, symbolizing resilience. During life’s struggles, I have often felt as small and vulnerable as this tree against the vastness of the world, searching for a place to hold on.
In the subtle shades of gray between black and white, I find a metaphor for life’s nuances. Photography captures the balance between light and shadow, much like our experiences shape our lives. Stripping away noise and clutter, black and white photography focuses on the essence of the moment and the emotions it evokes. Even amidst life’s challenges, there is always the opportunity to find beauty, meaning, and strength to persevere.
~Paul Smith
SAN JUAN COUNTY, UTAH
In a remote area of southeast Utah, I stood before the remarkable sight of Rockland Ranch, informally known as The Rock and featured in the Netflix series “Three Wives.” This unique polygamist community, home to approximately 35 families, showcases extraordinary adaptation and ingenuity. Homes are carved deep into the rock so that only the fronts extend out, creating a fortress-like appearance.
The dark clouds overhead added a sense of foreboding, casting a dramatic backdrop to the community below. The resilience of these homes, embedded into the rock formations, spoke volumes about the determination and creativity of their inhabitants. Each structure seemed to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, a testament to their ability to carve out a place for themselves both literally and metaphorically. This blend of adaptation and defiance against the harsh environment was deeply moving, highlighting their strength and commitment to their way of life.
The winding dirt road leading into the settlement invites contemplation about acceptance and understanding of those different from ourselves. While many may not agree with their lifestyle, there is an opportunity to find empathy and recognize their quest for belonging and faith. This image captures the delicate balance between isolation and community, highlighting their search for acceptance in a society that often struggles to embrace those who are different.
~Paul Smith
BUCKHORN WASH, UTAH
The Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel near Green River, Utah, is an extraordinary display of ancient artistry, spanning over 130 feet and showcasing the work of the Barrier Canyon culture from 1,500 to 4,000 years ago. Using natural pigments, these nomadic hunter-gatherers painted ghostly figures and intricate designs on the rock surface, reflecting their deep spiritual traditions. Among these, a figure with wings stands out, sparking curiosity and speculation about whether it depicts an angel or spiritual being, offering a glimpse into their complex belief systems.
This panel also includes petroglyphs—carvings etched into the rock—indicating that this site was shared by multiple cultures over time, including the later Fremont people. The photograph captures the fine details and textures of the pictographs against the weathered rock face, highlighting the artistic skills of these ancient peoples. The well-preserved lines and patterns invite viewers to reflect on the continuity of human expression and the enduring quest for meaning that spans millennia.
The Buckhorn Wash Pictograph Panel invites us to marvel at the creative abilities of ancient peoples, contemplate their beliefs, and recognize the connections that bind us across time. It stands as a powerful testament to the rich artistic and spiritual heritage of those who once called this landscape home, reminding us of the timeless human impulse to express ourselves and forge connections with the world around us.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
In the harsh light near Moab, Utah, the petrified sand dunes stand out dramatically. These ancient formations, dating back about 190 million years to the Jurassic period, seem to freeze time itself. Each grain of sand, transformed into rock over millennia, stands as a silent echo of primordial deserts, evoking a profound sense of humility.
Capturing the essence of these ageless wonders through my camera I wanted to reveal their raw, unfiltered beauty. Shooting from a low angle, I aimed to emphasize their towering presence. The bright, undiffused sunlight casts hard shadows, highlighting the dunes’ rugged textures and intricate contours. The lines and curves in the sandstone guide the eyes skyward, showcasing the natural artistry carved by time. The stark contrast between the rock and the expansive sky creates a scene of stark beauty and resilience.
Amidst this ancient landscape, the Navajo sandstone, with its distinctive hexagonal patterns, tells the story of unique conditions that once prevailed here. Each pattern whispers tales of ancient deserts, connecting us to the historic tapestry of Earth itself. Standing before these petrified sands, I’m reminded of our fleeting existence on this planet. Our lives flicker like brief flames against the backdrop of eternal geology. Each dune, a silent witness to the grandeur of time, invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the timeless allure of Earth’s ancient landscapes. As the wind whispers through the sandstone, it carries a reminder of our place in the universe—fleeting yet profound, surrounded by the enduring legacy of nature’s artistry.
~Paul Smith
UNKNOWN LOCATION
I took this self-portrait in an abandoned building, capturing my reflection in a shattered mirror mounted on a tiled wall. The image is stark and compelling, with the broken glass drawing the eye. Where my face should be, there’s a void surrounded by jagged shards. This missing piece adds mystery and depth, symbolizing my struggle with identity and the search for self-discovery.
The absence of my face in the reflection speaks volumes about my fractured identity. My torso and arms, visible through the remaining pieces, represent a partial and incomplete self-image. The shards catch light unpredictably, creating sharp contrasts that highlight the chaos and disarray within. The uniform tiles around the mirror sharply contrast with the turmoil inside, emphasizing the tension between external appearances and internal conflict.
This self-portrait through a broken mirror encapsulates themes of altered self-identity and the inner struggle to find peace. The shattered mirror metaphor deeply resonates with my experience of military-related PTSD, reflecting the constant battle with feelings of anger, distrust, and dysfunction. Photography has become my therapeutic tool, a way to explore and express complex emotions, and a step toward reclaiming my purpose. Finding purpose is my pathway to peace, guiding me through the turmoil toward a sense of wholeness and understanding.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
I took this photograph in Yellowstone. The scene is enveloped in a serene, almost melancholic atmosphere. The composition is dominated by a wooden boardwalk stretching into the distance, leading your eye toward a forested hill under a cloudy sky. The overcast weather casts a soft, diffused light over the landscape, enhancing the textures and details of the wooden planks and the surrounding grass.
The boardwalk’s straight lines and diminishing perspective create a sense of direction and purpose, inviting contemplation. At the end of the boardwalk, a lone figure stands isolated, emphasizing the theme of solitude and the search for connection and meaning in the vastness of nature. This solitary person adds a poignant element, symbolizing the human experience of isolation.
The uniform grass flanking the boardwalk contrasts with the dense forest beyond, highlighting the tension between order and wildness. The rough-hewn planks, with their visible knots and grain, add a tactile quality, inviting you to imagine walking along this path. The cloud-covered sky, with its varying shades of gray, adds drama and depth, softly illuminating the path ahead. This photograph captures a moment of quiet reflection and the timeless beauty of Yellowstone, encouraging you to pause and consider your own journey, finding solace in nature’s simplicity.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
While exploring the rugged landscape near Moab, Utah, I witnessed the sun transform the sky into a striking tapestry of dark, ominous clouds mixed with bright oranges and reds as nightfall approached. These rain-filled cumulonimbus clouds, heavy and intense, cast a powerful, moody ambiance over the landscape, evoking a sense of wonder and awe.
In the distance, a gentle mist of rain fell, blending seamlessly with the fiery sunset. The normally dry desert came alive with the rejuvenating scent of rain, an earthy aroma that invigorated the senses. This interplay of vibrant visuals and refreshing scents created a sensory experience that was both calming and exhilarating, drawing me completely into the moment.
Times like these remind me why photography is my sanctuary, enabling me to capture and appreciate the fleeting beauty of our world. Through my lens, I find tranquility and purpose, connecting with the ever-changing splendor of nature and the timeless stories it tells.
~Paul Smith
PRICE, UTAH
In an abandoned warehouse near Price, Utah, I captured this evocative image that speaks volumes about societal issues. The stark graffiti on the wall features a figure with arms outstretched, accompanied by the words “DON’T SHOOT.” This tag is a poignant commentary on police-involved shootings, a tragic phenomenon that seems uniquely pervasive in the United States. Even in this forgotten corner of a small town, the message resonates, highlighting a deep, communal anxiety.
The graffiti here isn’t just art; it’s a powerful expression of personal and societal struggles. It’s a raw, unfiltered look into the hearts and minds of those who feel marginalized and voiceless. Each tag tells a story, a personal narrative that reflects broader societal issues. The “DON’T SHOOT” message, in particular, underscores a plea for peace and safety in communities everywhere.
As I stood in this desolate space, the overwhelming sense of hopelessness in the graffiti mirrored my own struggles. The abandoned warehouse, with its crumbling walls and silent echoes, felt like a physical manifestation of the inner turmoil I often grapple with. Photography, for me, is a way to process and find peace amid this chaos, capturing these fleeting moments and the powerful stories they hold.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
A hushed winter visit to Yellowstone. The crowds had vanished, leaving behind a palpable stillness. Mist rose from the thermal pools, softening the edges of the world, blurring the distinction between earth and sky. The grain of the photograph enhances this ethereal quality, lending a dreamlike texture to the scene.
The empty boardwalk cuts a solitary line through the steaming landscape, drawing the eye into a world both desolate and profoundly serene. This image captivates me not for any conventional measures of photographic success, but for its pervasive grayness and the quiet sense of isolation it evokes. It speaks to a loneliness that holds a strange, quiet peace.
I often struggle to reconcile my own moments of solitude with a sense of contentment, and perhaps that’s why this image resonates so deeply. The stark emptiness of this place reflects something of my own inner world. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the muted tones and quiet spaces, that there’s a unique tranquility in embracing the stillness within. This connection makes it one of my most treasured photographs.
~Paul Smith
UNKNOWN LOCATION
While exploring a desolate area, I encountered an abandoned building whose graffiti-laden walls sparked memories of my days photographing Mötley Crüe. The phrase “Girls, Girls, Girls” emblazoned across the cinder block instantly transported me back to the band’s celebration of excess. Faintly painted nearby, the words “Peep Show” seemed to challenge the curious, reminiscent of the gritty dressing rooms where the band once prepared for their raucous shows.
The building’s walls, tagged and weathered, evoked the energy of those music-filled nights, mirroring the chaotic atmosphere that surrounded the band. The harsh contrast between the dark, inviting doorway and the bright exterior paralleled the highs and lows of touring life—nights filled with electrifying performances and days marked by profound loneliness.
This scene, with its stark textures and dramatic sky, stirred memories of the loneliness and wild spirit that defined those times. It captured the raw emotion and chaotic beauty of Mötley Crüe’s world, reminding me of the deep, sometimes tumultuous reflections on life and acceptance that those days provoked.
~Paul Smith
GRAND COUNTY, COLORADO
In this photograph captured in Grand County, Colorado, I aimed to encapsulate the tranquil yet stark aftermath of a forest recovery. The image is edited to enhance its soft glow, imbuing the scene with a subtle, almost ethereal color that mirrors the gentle sway of the weather-beaten trees. This artistic choice adds a sense of motion, complementing the bending trees that seem to whisper tales of resilience against the challenges of nature.
Your gaze naturally follows the wondering dirt road leading to the horizon. cutting through the lush, supple grass landscape. This path not only guides the eye but also invites contemplation, drawing a line between regeneration and the remnants of past trials. The grass, vivid in its greenery, contrasts with the somber tones of the background, highlighting nature’s persistent march towards rebirth.
Overall, the composition of this photograph—its manipulation of light and texture—serves to draw viewers into a moment of quiet reflection, offering a window into the quiet but powerful process of natural recovery and the serene beauty found in the aftermath of transformation.
~Paul Smith
UNKNOWN LOCATION
I took this photo because it resonated deeply with me, reminding me of my battle with military-related PTSD. The rugged charm of this abandoned building, with its rich textures and poignant narrative of decay, mirrors the journey many veterans face. The facade, framed squarely, directs focus to intricate details—peeling paint and weathered surfaces narrating years of exposure.
In the upper left corner, the faded name “Silver Bar” is barely visible. Once a lively hub, it now stands in stark contrast to its vibrant past. The padlocked doors warn people away, as if wanting to be unnoticed and unappreciated, much like veterans who hide their painful memories. The only sign now is “Private Property No Trespassing.”
The composition deepens the intrigue with a glassless window revealing only darkness, hinting at hidden stories. Just as the building’s history is locked away behind its padlocked doors, veterans often lock away their painful memories. As I stood before this decaying facade, I reflected on my once vibrant spirit now battling PTSD. Like the building, visibly marked by time yet concealing depths within, veterans struggle to embrace life again. Consider the layers of exposure and concealment in the lives of those affected by PTSD.
~Paul Smith
LA PLATA COUNTY, COLORADO
As I approached Pinkerton Hot Springs near Durango, Colorado, it seemed as though nature had dipped its brush into its most vibrant yellows and fiery reds to paint this extraordinary landscape. The intensity of these hues demanded to be captured in full color, for anything less would not do justice to their vivid display. This is nature’s own masterpiece, where minerals, particularly rich in iron, splash the terrain with brilliance that rivals any painted canvas.
Unlike typical springs that seep quietly from the earth, Pinkerton stands out with its unique structure. It resembles a natural mound, where hot water gently flows from the top with the faint sound of a gurgle, rolling down its sides like a tranquil stream. This continuous gentle flow helps sculpt the spring’s travertine walls, depositing layers of mineral-rich sediments that narrate the passage of geological time.
Encircling this natural spectacle is a pool of mineral-rich water, warm and inviting, famed for its therapeutic properties. Visitors are drawn not just by the warmth of the water but by the chance to soak in what feels like a living painting. Each visit to this spring offers a moment to pause and appreciate nature’s capacity to craft such unforgettable scenes, urging us to linger in the presence of this masterful display of colors and forms.
~Paul Smith
SAN MIGUEL COUNTY, COLORADO
As I wandered to the edge of a small meadow, I noticed this patch of wild Corn Lilies. Capturing them in monochrome, emphasized their intricate textures and sculptural forms against the meadow’s softer grasses, highlighting the clarity and depth of their broad leaves and towering blooms.
The backdrop was a striking contrast of bright aspens and dark conifers, each captured in varying shades of gray. The aspens, with their almost luminous trunks, stood out against the darker conifers. This contrast not only added depth to the composition but also enriched the textural interplay within the forest, enhancing the overall visual impact of the scene.
Focusing on the natural elements before me brought a sense of peace and calm, far removed from the chaos of daily life. This moment of stillness, surrounded by the simple yet profound beauty of the landscape, reminded me of the serenity that comes from truly being present and connected with nature.
~Paul Smith
COLONA, COLORADO
In Colona, Colorado, I captured this image of a wooden door on a cloudless day, where the sun’s position cast sharply defined, hard shadows across the building’s facade and the structural elements surrounding the door. These shadows delineated the door rails and the posts framing the wooden door, emphasizing the angular sunlight that also brought out the grain of the door, making it visible and visually intriguing.
This photograph, rendered in black and white, enhances the play of light and shadow, turning a simple door into a canvas of textures and contrasts. The stark black rails that guide the door and the number “26” embossed on the building stand out in relief, providing lines for the viewer’s eye to follow, creating a pathway through the image that encourages a deeper look at the details.
I invite everyone to slow down and appreciate the beauty in the mundane and the unnoticed elements that surround us daily. It is a reminder that, when viewed with a different perspective, the ordinary can become extraordinary. Shifting our perception can encourage us to view other aspects of our lives differently, opening up new avenues of appreciation and understanding. In this way, photography is not just about capturing moments, but about changing how we see the world.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
Yellowstone’s quiet moments can be magically revealing if you’re patient and fortunate enough to witness them. I was lucky enough to encounter this Great Grey Owl, perched unassumingly among the intertwining branches. Its elusive nature was a striking contrast to the usual boldness of Yellowstone’s wildlife.
Great Grey Owls are among the tallest of owls, with a commanding presence that belies its actual weight. This owl’s impressive stature, with a body length up to 33 inches and a wingspan nearing 60 inches, makes it a formidable figure in the forest. Yet, it is surprisingly light, allowing it to remain nearly silent as it swoops down on prey—a ghostly hunter in the twilight.
The decision to capture this image in black and white was deliberate to emphasize the owl’s striking form against the complexity of its natural habitat. In a color photo, the owl’s muted gray feathers would blend seamlessly into the green of the pine needles, rendering it nearly invisible. The black and white contrast not only sharply defines the owl but also captures the gleam of sunlight in its eyes, transforming the photo from a simple portrait into a dynamic interaction of light and shadow. Just as the owl dominates the quiet forest with its silent vigil, so too does its image command the full attention of anyone who views it, thanks to the meticulous capture of light and detail.
~Paul Smith
TETON COUNTY, WYOMING
In Teton County, Wyoming, I stumbled upon a remarkable sight: the expansive roots of a fallen tree, sprawled across the forest floor like the tentacles of an octopus poised to ensnare its prey. This display of nature’s raw beauty was not just a visual treat but a vivid reminder of the forest’s dynamic life.
At the core where these roots melded into the trunk, a captivating pattern of fine, spiral grain emerged, resembling the intricate design of a biological marvel meticulously crafted by nature. This central part, hollowed out, strikingly resembled a mouth, enhancing the likeness to a sea creature. Struck by the spiral textures at the center, I sat in front of it as one might sit before a masterpiece in a gallery, fully engaged, absorbing the profound beauty and intricate artistry of this natural sculpture.
The scene transformed a simple natural occurrence into a portal to an otherworldly realm. With roots akin to an octopus’s arms, flexing and ready to pull at a moment’s notice into the ‘mouth’ at the center of the trunk, the black and white photograph deepened this illusion. The dramatic contrast highlighted the eerie, almost alien appearance of the tree, making it not just a piece of wood but a vivid, dramatic entity that captured both my imagination and my heart.
~Paul Smith
BRYCE CANYON, UTAH
During my visit to Bryce Canyon National Park, I encountered the remarkable hoodoos, towering like colossal pillars, each one sculpted by the persistent work of frost wedging and the erosion of softer rock beneath harder caps. These formations, resembling natural temples, stood as sanctuaries of worship, sculpted by the earth itself over millennia.
The spiritual analogy of these hoodoos runs deep, mirroring spiritual transformations where gradual, persistent changes yield profound beauty and complexity. As I stood among these ancient spires, I was drawn into an inward reflection, considering how, much like these formations, our spirits are shaped over time through challenges and endurance. The cathedral-like rooms carved into the cliff faces seemed to echo with a silent reverence for nature’s enduring power, urging a deeper contemplation of my own life’s journey.
Crafted by nature’s unyielding forces, these formations not only captivated my visual senses but also stirred a deeper contemplation on the resilience and artistry of the natural world. In this moment of awe and quietude, I found a renewed courage to seek peace within myself, inspired by the timeless strength and serenity of the hoodoos. Do these silent stone sentinels inspire us to find resilience in our own lives? As I left, the impression they made lingered, a profound reminder of nature’s ability to awe and teach through its grand designs, urging us to embrace our own transformations with courage and peace.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
I was captivated by the sight of a lone tree on a ridge near Yellowstone National Park, boldly standing against the darkening storm clouds. Its silhouette was striking against the sky, with branches reaching upward, embracing the impending storm as if confident from having weathered many before.
Positioned above me, the tree’s elevated stance not only emphasized its formidable presence but also the dramatic contrast between the ominous clouds and the serene ridge beneath. This perspective highlighted its isolation, enhancing the tree’s role as a symbol of steadfastness.
This image metaphorically mirrors the resilience required to face life’s challenges. The tree, resilient and undaunted by the storm, stands as a testament to enduring strength, encouraging a reflection on our own capacities to withstand adversity.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
Capturing this moment in Yellowstone National Park was a rare and intense experience. I observed this bull elk up close as he vigorously marked his territory by rubbing his scent onto a tree—a potent signal to rival males during the rutting season.
The photo sharply captures the rugged texture of his antlers and the fine details, such as the small blood vessels pulsating in his eye, which underscore his heightened state of alertness and aggression. The roughness of the bark contrasting against the polished hardness of his antlers adds a tactile dimension to the image, almost allowing the viewer to feel the scrape and hear the crunch.
Being this close to such a formidable creature during the rut was thrilling yet unnerving. Bull elk can be incredibly aggressive during this period, and capturing such an intimate moment was both a privilege and an extraordinary opportunity to share the same space in nature with such a majestic animal.
~Paul Smith
SPANISH FORK, UTAH
At the Festival of Colors at the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork, Utah, I found myself immersed in the spirit of Holi, surrounded by the palpable happiness and free spirits of thousands gathered there. This ancient festival marks the end of winter and celebrates the triumph of good over evil, with participants joyfully showering each other with powders rich in cultural and spiritual significance, symbolizing joy, forgiveness, and renewal.
Capturing this event in color was essential; black and white would not have captured the essential vibrancy of the experience. These powders are not just for fun; they embody the essence of Holi, resonating deeply with everyone involved.
Amidst this colorful chaos, my focus was drawn to a woman dancing energetically to the continuous music playing on stage. Her hair whipped around in wild spirals, evoking the image of Medusa with serpentine locks—a symbol of power and untamed freedom. Her movements, perfectly in sync with the rhythm, and her vibrant expressions captured the lively spirit of the festival, offering a vivid representation of the community’s shared joy and unrestrained celebration.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
The two logs lie serenely in the water, naturally guiding the gaze into the stark and ethereal landscape ahead. They lead the eye toward the haunting assembly of standing dead trees, each one a silent witness to the passage of time.
The towering dead trees stand like ancient guardians, their branchless trunks stretching skyward and perfectly reflected on the water’s smooth surface. Their roots are embedded in the mineral-caked soil, which has left these lifeless forms frozen in time amidst intricate patterns stained into the earth.
In the distance, the dense forest silently observes the desolate scene, its darkness contrasting with the barren ground in the foreground. The mirror-like water captures this serene moment flawlessly, encapsulating Yellowstone’s rugged spirit with a captivating blend of haunting beauty and eerie tranquility that stirs the soul.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
On a chilly morning in Yellowstone, I captured the image of a bison grazing alone in a meadow, its breath visible in the cold air. Mist delicately wove through the early morning, creating a serene atmosphere that highlighted the park’s intimate beauty.
Set against dense woods, the bison brings life to the stark landscape. The slightly grainy and faded quality of the photograph injects a nostalgic feel, drawing attention to the bison’s natural fit within its surroundings.
This image subtly captures Yellowstone’s wild nature, reflecting the park’s sense of solitude. The bison against the expansive backdrop nods to the enduring allure and straightforward elegance of the wilderness.
~Paul Smith
YELLOWSTONE, WYOMING
In this scene from Yellowstone, I chose to embrace color over my usual preference for black and white. A long exposure helped reveal the stars typically hidden by twilight, blending them seamlessly into the deep blues and purples of the evening sky.
Color enhances the transition from day to night, as the sky fades from vibrant oranges and blues to the deep tones of twilight. The long exposure captures the delicate mix of lingering daylight and the advancing night, making the stars and clouds glow in a mystical dance.
I used this approach to convey the unique beauty of that moment when day surrenders to night and the landscape undergoes a magical transformation. The colors and luminous clouds emphasize Yellowstone’s otherworldly aura, illustrating the twilight transition where hidden stars emerge.
~Paul Smith
WAYNE COUNTY, UTAH
On a hot summer day in Wayne County, Utah, I was drawn to this road leading into the striking landscape. The texture of the pavement, often unnoticed, intrigued me, so I framed it to capture its subtle but unique detail.
To the left, the towering rock formations stood in solitude, a compelling subject that immediately caught my eye. Their contours, shaped millions of years ago during the Late Cretaceous period, are accentuated by the hard shadows cast across them, telling a story of erosion and geological forces.
This region, rich in geological history, offers a glimpse into a past where shifting landscapes created formations like these. The composition aims to capture the viewer’s sense of wonder, highlighting a landscape that invites exploration and curiosity.
~Paul Smith
WAYNE COUNTY, UTAH
While exploring near Capitol Reef National Park in Utah, I stumbled upon a boulder that looked remarkably like a dinosaur skull. Its textures immediately drew my attention, and I marveled at the fascinating geological history of this region. Capitol Reef’s rock layers stretch across nearly 290 million years. These rocks, formed in a shallow sea and ancient delta, hold a nearly continuous record of life from before the rise of the dinosaurs to their extinction.
Feeling the pocked surface with my fingertips, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by its ancient story. These small divots on the boulder’s surface likely originated from the presence of gas bubbles in the water. As these tiny bubbles rose, they clung to the stones rough surface and eventually burst, gradually eroding the rock, creating tiny craters with smooth interiors within the rugged exterior. This process offers valuable insights into the complex geological processes that have shaped this region over countless millennia.
~Paul Smith
SAN JUAN COUNTY, UTAH
I took this photo of a Native American ruin near Needles National Park in Utah. This granary, tucked beneath a rock overhang, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the Ancestral Puebloans. Built with flat stones and mortar, it served to store crops grown in the spring and summer, ensuring the community had nutritional food throughout the fall and winter.
I aimed to capture the unique textures of the granary, contrasting its jagged stones with the smooth rock above. The builders showcased their ingenuity in adapting to the natural landscape with practical designs. The light filtering into the scene highlighted the intricate details of this historical site.
Standing before this centuries-old granary, I felt a deep respect for the Ancestral Puebloans’ careful planning and resourcefulness that have allowed this place to endure. The chosen angle emphasized the harmony between the granary and the surrounding landscape, underscoring the link between human ingenuity and nature’s challenges.
~Paul Smith
OURAY, COLORADO
When I stumbled across this pond in the afternoon, the intricate algae floating within it inspired me to capture this vibrant photograph. The angle of the sun provided hard shadows on the water’s surface, cast by nearby stalks growing out of the pond, while also offering direct, unfiltered light that made the algae stand out. I framed the shot to highlight the mesmerizing patterns, which look like delicate ribbons of smoke suspended vertically in the water. They hang there motionless, as if the pond is a solid piece of glass, and even a whisper of movement would scatter them into a cloud of chaos.
The intense green of the algae contrasts sharply with the golden hues of the aspen trees covering the hills in the background. The fall colors add a fiery warmth to the cool greens in the water, creating a tapestry that draws the viewer in.
The vivid contrast between colors perfectly captures the changing seasons, showcasing autumn’s fleeting beauty. For me, this image is a testament to those rare moments when color is indispensable.
~Paul Smith
OURAY, COLORADO
The same image as ‘ENTWINED (COLOR)’, presented in black and white. Both images have their unique beauty and feel. The color image stands striking and bold, the black and white more subtle and peaceful. You decide which speaks to you.
~Paul Smith
TELLURIDE, COLORADO
Near Telluride, Colorado, I captured this grove of aspen trees, mesmerized by the way their leaves shimmered in the light. The dirt road meanders through the forest, naturally drawing the viewer’s eye deeper into the peaceful woods. The road not only offers a visual journey but also calls to those who venture along its path to experience the forest’s serene beauty.
Aspen trees have an extraordinary ability to regenerate through their root systems, interlinking entire groves as one organism. This concept of unity intrigued me, and I wanted to capture the interconnection and communal spirit that these trees share.
I aimed to highlight the intricate details of the aspen trunks while also showcasing the eternal glow of the canopy above. The trunks stood like silent guardians along the path, their distinctive bark patterns adding richness to the forest. The contrast between light and shadow animated the scene, inviting viewers to journey into the tranquil depths of the forest.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
My parents joined me on this off-road adventure during the annual Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah, offering us a chance to experience a side of Moab few people see. At the end of Chicken Corners trail lies this this epic panorama of the Colorado River, winding its way through Moab’s iconic cliffs and mesas. While enjoying the view, we ate lunch, nourishing our bodies and souls as we communed with nature.
In this photograph, the contrast between light and shadow reveals the grandeur of the cliffs, drawing the viewer into the scene’s depths. The shadows cradle the ancient rock layers, emphasizing the rugged beauty of this terrain. Above, drifting clouds mirror the river’s curves, lending a dreamlike quality to the sky.
For me, this image represents Moab’s timeless beauty—an artistic nod to the Colorado River’s lasting impact on this awe-inspiring landscape. The cliffs command respect, yet the river’s curve invites exploration and wonder. It was a meaningful experience to bond with my parents in such an awe-inspiring setting, reminding us of the joy that comes from shared adventures and the simple beauty of nature.
~Paul Smith
SILVERTON, COLORADO
Near Silverton, Colorado, a 19th-century headframe and cable tower emerge from the landscape, standing as witnesses to the silver rush’s zeal. These structures, shaped by decades of wind and weather, celebrate the spirit of miners who delved deep into the earth for silver, marking a significant chapter in American history.
Adjacent to the headframe rests a mound of tailings, a tangible echo of the exhaustive effort to extract valuable ore. Walking among these remnants, the distinct crunch underfoot recalls the exhaustive work that defined this era, a testament to the relentless pursuit of prosperity under challenging conditions.
The surrounding treeless expanse, coupled with the biting cold of the high altitude, accentuates the miners’ remarkable endurance in this stark, breathless environment. Through this photograph, I aimed to highlight the enduring headframe with the raw beauty of its setting, inviting contemplation on the indelible imprint of human ambition on the wild.
~Paul Smith
RIDGEWAY, COLORADO
The photograph captures a tranquil rural setting near Ridgeway, Colorado, with a particular emphasis on the intricate network of wooden fences that traverse the scene. These fences, beginning from the right and winding their way across the frame, draw the viewer’s eye through the image, much like lines in a well-crafted sketch. They add depth and guide the narrative of the landscape, their textures and patterns highlighted by the interplay of light and shadows, which is beautifully enhanced by the monochrome treatment.
At the center of this pastoral scene, an old barn with weathered metal siding stands subtly, yet it commands attention as a quiet testament to the area’s agricultural heritage. The barn is not merely a structure but a focal point around which the rural life unfurls, its presence suggesting stories and histories whispered on the wind.
~Paul Smith
OURAY, COLORADO
This panoramic image from near Ouray, Colorado, captures an exquisite autumn scene in the Rocky Mountains. Featured prominently is a lush grove of aspen trees, known for their vibrant fall colors. In this black and white rendition, the transformation is striking—the normally golden leaves glow with a luminous, silvery sheen, creating an almost ethereal effect.
The foreground shows a serene meadow extending towards the aspens, its detailed texture enriched by the monochrome palette. This smooth, grassy area contrasts with the upright trunks of the aspens, enhancing the composition’s depth and guiding the viewer’s gaze from the tranquil meadow through the radiant trees to the rugged mountain backdrop.
Capturing the scene in black and white focuses attention on the interplay of textures and light, emphasizing the contrast between the delicate aspen leaves and the solid mountains. This artistic choice not only highlights the unique beauty of autumn but also allows the transformed aspen hues to shine intensely, offering a distinctive and mesmerizing take on fall’s traditional colors.
~Paul Smith
GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
This haunting black and white photograph taken near the Grand Canyon captures the somber aftermath of a forest fire, presenting a forest of charred trees. The absence of color sharpens the focus on the intricate details of the damaged wood and twisted branches, contrasting dramatically with the smooth, overcast sky. The monochrome tones deepen the visual impact, emphasizing the stark textures of the landscape.
The composition highlights the interplay of light and shadows across the skeletal trees, drawing into a deeper contemplation of nature’s raw power. The silent atmosphere is thick with the scent of charred wood, enhancing the sensory experience of the image.
Above the desolate landscape, the sky, depicted in varying shades of gray, adds a dynamic element to the scene. The clouds moving purposefully over the still trees suggest ongoing natural processes, despite the apparent stillness. This image invites reflection on the stark beauty that emerges from destruction, offering a poignant meditation on the transient yet impactful nature of such events.
~Paul Smith
GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
This striking photograph captures the sweeping grandeur of Grand Canyon National Park from a unique vantage point. The landscape unfurls from a prominent rocky outcrop that serves as a natural leading line, drawing the eye deep into the canyon’s rugged expanse. This feature skillfully navigates the viewer through the vast scene, enhancing the sense of depth and vastness.
Above the canyon, the sky plays an integral role in the composition, with bold clouds stretching across the frame. These clouds not only add a dynamic quality but also parallel the lines of the canyon below, reinforcing the depth and drawing the viewer’s gaze into the heart of the landscape. The interplay between the layered clouds and the textured terrain below forms a harmonious visual connection.
The photograph is given a classic, timeless quality through the addition of a film-like grain, reminiscent of traditional black and white photography. This stylistic choice enriches the textural details of the scene, from the scrub and rocks in the foreground to the detailed strata of the canyon walls. This added texture and nostalgic flair, along with the dramatic use of perspective and natural leading lines, encourage the viewer to pause and immerse themselves in the majestic beauty of the Grand Canyon, offering a deep, almost cinematic experience.
~Paul Smith
OURAY, COLORADO
This image is a study in contrasts, where stark black and white amplify the interplay of light and shadow. A single ray of light slices through the pervasive shadows, alighting on an isolated chair, which is imbued with a lonely prominence. This spotlight effect, reminiscent of chiaroscuro, sharply delineates the chair from its shadowy surroundings.
Around the chair, the interior testifies to decay: walls that bear the scars of time, and a ceiling from which fragments hang, poised to fall. The defined shadows carve out depth and dimension, instilling a somber vitality into the abandoned space.
Debris litters the floor, among which a sinuous object lies—a flywheel drive belt, now resembling a dormant serpent. This silent interior, having been devoid of life for untold durations, is marked by a stark interplay of light and shadow, with a profound stillness pervading every corner.
~Paul Smith
GRAND LAKE, COLORADO
In the somber aftermath of a wildfire near Grand Lake, Colorado, this image conveys a powerful silence. The landscape is a scene of devastation, with charred trees standing like fractured bones against the sky. Each blackened trunk and snapped limb tells a tale of the inferno’s wrath, captured in stark monochrome that strips the scene down to its raw essence.
A lone dirt road carves a path through the left of the frame, untouched and contrasting with the destruction that flanks it. This road draws the viewer’s eye through the devastation, a ribbon of continuity that hints at the resilience of nature amidst chaos. The composition’s breadth and the brooding clouds overhead amplify the desolation, yet there’s an underlying promise of renewal.
Despite the scene’s initial impression of finality, there’s a deeper narrative woven into the visual starkness—the potential for new life. Like a phoenix poised to rise, the landscape holds a silent assurance of rebirth. This image captures not just a moment of destruction, but a cycle of nature that includes an inherent, hopeful resurgence.
~Paul Smith
ROCKY MOUNTAINS, COLORADO
Tucked away in the vast serenity of Rocky Mountain National Park, a moose has found a tranquil spot within a cool marsh, a perfect respite. Here, amid the soft whisper of the grass blades, a sense of peace pervades, offering a secluded enclave far from everyday distractions.
This marsh isn’t merely a retreat; it’s a lifeline. Packed with nutritious plants, it offers the moose all it needs to thrive, acting as a steward of its well-being amidst nature’s abundance. In this quiet corner, the moose can feed and rest, benefiting from the natural provisions at its disposal.
Above, the canopy diffuses sunlight, bestowing a soft glow that seems to light up the grass from within, adding a magical quality to the landscape. This soft illumination enhances the calm, creating a scene that speaks to the soul about the intricate beauty and balance within the natural world, resonating with a deeply human appreciation for the earth’s quiet wonders.
~Paul Smith
ROCKY MOUNTAINS, COLORADO
In this compelling black and white photograph taken in Rocky Mountain National Park, a deeply weathered log, etched by the relentless passage of time, lies partially submerged in the Colorado River, near the bank. Its rough texture offers a narrative of resilience, a chronicle of natural forces at play. This log, with its bark stripped away and its surface scarred by elements, suggests an intimate history with the ebb and flow of the seasons.
The river itself, captured through a long exposure, flows with a silken smoothness that starkly contrasts with the log’s enduring solidity. This photographic technique casts the water in a dreamlike state, suggesting a silence that envelops the scene, a serene pause in the continual whisper of the creek-like river.
Beyond the log and the gentle embrace of the river, the scene unfolds to reveal a dense congregation of trees. They stand as guardians along the journey to the distant mountains, providing a sense of scale that speaks to the vastness of the natural landscape, juxtaposed against the intimacy of the log’s resting place.
~Paul Smith
GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
Pause for a while and take in the grand old tree at the brink of the Grand Canyon. Its bark is a canvas of history, each groove and ridge a story waiting to be explored by your touch. The contours and scars are a testament to its enduring presence, standing firm against the trials of time.
Here, amidst the vastness, it’s almost natural to slip into a moment of reflection, the sheer splendor of the landscape inviting a calm to wash over you. As light and shadow dance across this ancient setting, they cast a soothing rhythm, a counterpoint to life’s constant rush.
So stay here for a moment. Immerse yourself in the fine details and the awe-inspiring scope, where the silence beside this age-old sentinel offers a peaceful retreat. Amidst the gentle murmurs of the canyon, you’re beckoned to take a deep breath, to be present, and to resonate with the timeless heartbeat of the earth.
~Paul Smith
GRAND LAKE, COLORADO
In the shadow of the Rockies, the small town of Grand Lake, Colorado, witnesses the humble beginnings of the Colorado River. A short distance from its source in Rocky Mountain National Park, it appears as a tranquil creek that visitors can effortlessly cross by stepping on the interspersed stones.
This photograph captures the river with a smooth, serene flow, the result of a photographic technique that blurs the water into a silky ribbon of motion. The edges of the foliage blur gently, swaying in the breeze that sweeps through the valley. At this early stage, the river seems almost tame, a far cry from the erosive force that will deepen canyons and shape landscapes.
As the Colorado River snakes its way from Grand Lake, it gathers strength over a 1,450-mile journey, ultimately releasing into the Gulf of California in Mexico. Along the way, it will carve the epic Grand Canyon, revealing the power and persistence inherent in nature. This stretch by Grand Lake offers a moment to appreciate the river’s modest start before it transforms into the architect of some of the most majestic natural formations on Earth.
~Paul Smith
SILVERTON, COLORADO
In the small town of Silverton, Colorado, the Silverton Sausage Company stands as a beloved local tradition among the historic peaks. Here, eager customers line up to enjoy what’s known locally as some damn good sausage, a culinary staple as integral to the town as its mountainous surroundings.
Details pop against the monochromatic backdrop: the vendor’s careful preparation of an order, a customer on the left meticulously adding condiments to his sausage, and the casual array of chips and sodas that complete the meal. Each element, highlighted by the stark lighting, invites onlookers to pause and appreciate this slice of life in Silverton.
Through this lens, a simple sausage cart becomes a stage where daily life unfolds against the dramatic backdrop of the Colorado mountains. It’s a testament to how, in the absence of color, the story can emerge with even greater clarity, capturing the essence of a community united by their love for good, honest food.
~Paul Smith
BOMBAY BEACH, CALIFORNIA
This striking scene unfolds at Bombay Beach, California, beside the desolate shores of the Salton Sea. In the forefront, a tree devoid of leaves reaches skyward with branches twisted into complex shapes, casting pronounced shadows onto the desiccated earth. Beside it, an aged-and-battered armchair sits as a mute witness to the absence of life, embodying the solitude of the place.
The flat expanse of the land stretches endlessly, punctuated by the occasional brush of vegetation and the ruins of forgotten structures. Overhead, a canopy of clouds adds a dynamic texture to the otherwise motionless environment, their shapes etched against the sky suggesting movement in stasis.
The distinct lighting accentuates the scene’s starkness, drawing out hard shadows that deepen the eerie, abandoned atmosphere. Together, the lifeless tree and the frayed armchair stand amid a landscape marked by contrasts and textures, evoking Bombay Beach as a place suspended in time, where silence tells its own story.
~Paul Smith
UNKNOWN LOCATION
In this black and white photograph, your attention is immediately drawn to the stark contrast between the weathered wooden shack and the desolate landscape around it. The shack’s exposed framework reveals a complex interplay of hard shadows that sharply define its crumbling architecture.
Nearby, a worn couch exposed to the elements provides a compelling focal point, offering a counterpoint to the rigid lines of the dilapidated building.
Above, clouds etched into the sky, their soft billowing shapes contrasting with the scene’s harshness below. The composition captures an interplay of hard shadows, textured surfaces, and varied contrasts that lend the image a haunting beauty and depth.
~Paul Smith
RIDGEWAY, COLORADO
Captured in the tranquil expanse of San Miguel County, Colorado, this photograph eloquently frames a story of historical evolution. Alone in a meadow of wild grass, the vintage fuel pump stands as a sentinel to a simpler time in American history. The feature of a glass bubble sight window on the pump is a charming detail, allowing patrons of the past to see gasoline in motion—evidence of a transparent era. The displayed price of 14 cents per gallon prompts contemplation on the vast economic changes that have occurred since then.
The artistically rendered landscape draws the viewer from the antiquated pump in the foreground across the verdant brush to the rolling hills in the distance. Overhead, the dramatic sky sculpts light and shadow across the scene, from the historical artifact to the pristine wilderness behind it. This photograph celebrates the untouched beauty of the region and the remnants of human touch—a single bygone object standing amidst the natural expanse.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
Captured in stark black and white, this photograph from near Moab, Utah, presents a dramatic contrast between the enduring natural world and the remnants of human presence. A monolith rises majestically in the center, its layers and rugged profile highlighted by the contrasting tones of sunlight and hard shadows, standing as a testament to the ancient forces of nature.
At its base, fragments of old wooden watering troughs, marked by time and the elements, lie scattered. These pieces, once essential for life in this harsh landscape, now serve as a bridge from the viewer to the monolith, drawing the eye across a landscape rich in history and natural beauty.
The sky above, filled with moving clouds, adds a dynamic texture to the scene, contrasting with the solid, unyielding form of the monolith and the earthy, tactile presence of the wooden relics. This image from near Moab captures a moment frozen in time, where the remnants of past efforts to harness the land lie in the shadow of its immutable beauty.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
Within the frame, taken near Moab, Utah, a grand boulder teeters atop a slim stone pedestal, its massive form dominating the scene. Sharp light and hard shadows highlight the textures of the boulder’s surface, accentuating the cracks and crevices. These stark contrasts underscore the tactile roughness of the stone, as if you could reach out and feel its coarse exterior.
Behind the boulder, the rock-strewn ground provides a subtle backdrop, enhancing the intricately textured monolith.
Above, an array of clouds sweeps across the sky, adding a dynamic element. These clouds cast dancing shadows across the landscape, momentarily enhancing the boulder’s eternal poise with their light display.
~Paul Smith
MOJAVE DESERT, NEVADA
As the Mojave Indian Trail unfurls beneath the vast skies of Nevada, this image encapsulates the majestic stillness of the desert. In this black and white symphony, the Yucca plant stands at attention, its rigid leaves conducting the wild orchestra of the landscape. Each spike thrusts upwards, as if poised to cue the boulders, the smaller vegetation, and even the swirling grains of sand into harmonious existence.
The surrounding boulders seem to lean in, awaiting the downbeat of the Yucca’s silent baton. Below, the desert floor is a canvas of textures, each particle of sand a note in the grand composition of this arid expanse. The heavy clouds hang as a backdrop to this natural stage.
This is a landscape attuned to the rhythms of an unheard score, with the Yucca plant at its heart—a stoic maestro summoning the music of light, shadow, wind, and time. Each element, from the smallest shrub to the grandest cloud, is a performer in waiting, ready to play its part in the great desert symphony the moment the conductor commands.
~Paul Smith
BOMBAY BEACH, CALIFORNIA
In this striking black and white landscape, a wooden swing set of dramatic proportions stands in shallow waters, creating a focal point of nostalgia and surrealism. Its long shadows are cast starkly upon the water’s surface, underscoring the stillness of the scene. The swing, tied to its towering wooden frame, appears suspended in time, as if awaiting a push that would break the silence of this solitary place.
In the distance, a sailboat sits motionless on the serene sea, its stillness echoing the immobility of the swing. This small craft, when compared to the commanding presence of the swing set, seems all the more isolated, a mere whisper against the vastness of the landscape. The sand, imprinted with the traces of the tide, leads your gaze to these two points of stillness. Above, the sky hosts a gathering of clouds that, too, seem to pause, contemplating the quietude below.
In this world of motionless wonders, the swing is a poignant symbol of paused life and untold stories, waiting for the breath of a breeze or the laughter of a child to bring it into motion once more.
~Paul Smith
HACKBERRY, ARIZONA
In this grayscale image, the remnants of an abandoned school tell a poignant tale of desolation and the passage of time. The building’s once-sturdy exterior now shows the relentless effects of decay. Coarse surfaces starkly contrast with the barren branches reaching towards the sky, each element defined by the interplay of light and shadow. This juxtaposition sculpts the scene with a clarity that speaks volumes about abandonment.
In the foreground, a dilapidated basketball hoop tilts, its backboard weathered and devoid of a net. It stands as a silent reminder of the laughter and games that have long since faded, capturing the essence of a recess that has ended—not just for the day, but forever. The image leaves us with an echo of joy and activity now gone.
Next to this, a once-vibrant duck ride, meant to swirl with the delighted energy of children, remains motionless. The worn texture of the ride, now just a ghost of its former self, whispers of better times. The photograph’s use of lighting expertly highlights the textured decay and the deep scars of neglect marking the school’s facade. These elements combine to create a powerful visual narrative. It’s a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of childhood exuberance, now replaced by the quiet, enduring weight of memories in a space long abandoned. This scene is a moving illustration that the innocence once symbolized by recess has indeed ended.
~Paul Smith
ROCKY MOUNTAINS, COLORADO
In this high-altitude treeless scene from the Colorado Rocky Mountains, the rugged San Juan range stands as a testament to the untamed beauty of nature. The foreground is a study in contrast, where the coarse texture of the boulders imparts a sense of enduring strength. Beyond these enduring sentinels, the grasses of the alpine tundra weave a tapestry of softer lines, their delicate blades tempering the scene’s harder edges.
Midway through the frame, a dirt road traces the base of a rolling foothill, its presence a whisper of the human footprint, giving depth to the landscape, drawing the viewer’s eye from the tactile foreground to the broader vista.
Hard shadows carve through the scene, highlighting the interplay between the resilient rock, the pliant grass, and the reflective pond. Together, they create a harmony of textures—from the rigid, craggy boulders to the gentle sway of the grass, culminating in the imposing yet distant mountains—each contributing to the serene softness that permeates this rugged alpine environment.
~Paul Smith
HINCKLEY, UTAH
Sunflowers punctuate the sweeping landscape of Hinckley, Utah, with their poised petals and dark centers drawing the eye amidst the open expanse. They stand out with a striking luminance in the photograph, a bold point of focus against the fields that stretch into the distance. The framing gives these resilient flowers a prominent place, with the wide-open space around them leading to the backdrop of a dark and brooding sky, hinting at the potential of a distant storm.
The framing of the photograph gives these resilient flowers a prominent place, with the wide-open space around them leading to the backdrop of a dark and brooding sky, hinting at the potential of a distant storm. The sky, dramatic and perhaps foreboding, does not overpower; it amplifies the visual impact of the sunflowers.
This image artfully captures a dance of contrasts: the enduring presence of the sunflowers is set against the transient drama of light and the weather patterns above. It is a testament to the rugged, understated beauty of Hinckley’s flora, which stands bold and resilient against the elements, emphasizing a dynamic interplay between nature and the elements.
~Paul Smith
ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK, COLORADO
Nestled in the expanse of Rocky Mountain National Park, this image encapsulates the serene interplay of nature’s light and texture. The sun makes a grand entrance through the evergreen spires, scattering a pattern of bright beams that grace the landscape with a warm, inviting luminescence.
Following the land’s natural contours, the river carves a reflective pathway through the valley. Its surface, smooth as polished glass, mirrors the transient beauty of the clouds above, infusing the scene with a tranquil, almost otherworldly quality. The harmony of water and sky paints a picture of quiet introspection.
The distant peaks rise up, forming an enduring backdrop to the fluid dance of light and water in the foreground. The lush grasses along the riverbank stand in soft contrast to the water’s calm, contributing to a scene rich with life and silent storytelling. Here, in this untouched corner of the park, is a celebration of the wild’s simple elegance, a scene that invites the viewer to pause and immerse in nature’s unspoken poetry.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
This photograph from Moab captures a landscape where monumental rock formations dominate, their presence a testament to eons of natural sculpting. Among these geological giants, one formation stands out for its quirky resemblance to an elephant’s foot, adding a whimsical touch to the otherwise stark and formidable scene.
The rocks in the image are more than just impressive in size; they are storytellers of the earth’s ancient past. Each layer, shaped by the relentless forces of erosion, reveals the slow and powerful dance of nature that has shaped this terrain. The rugged textures and deep crevices speak of millennia spent under the influence of water and wind, a visual record of time that has transformed this landscape from a seabed to a desert.
This scene invites a contemplation of the enduring beauty and strength of the natural world. The formations, while reminiscent of the familiar, stand as symbols of the earth’s immense and ongoing journey. Through this photograph, we are given a glimpse into the vast narrative of geological change, a reminder of the dynamic and ever-evolving planet we inhabit.
~Paul Smith
DEATH VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
Following a rare thunderstorm in Death Valley, a photographer lingers in the solitude of his motel room, illuminated by the lone light from a nightstand lamp. Seated by the window, he gazes into the darkness outside, reflecting on the day’s extraordinary events captured through his lens.
On the bed, evidence of the day’s endeavors — a camera and crumpled trousers — are casually dispersed among the sheets, each item telling a story of relentless exploration now paused for a moment of introspection. The room is defined by hard shadows cast by the singular light source, enhancing the textures of the disheveled bed and the contemplative mood of the space.
An open take-out container sits near the lamp, a quiet reminder of life’s simple needs amidst the profound experience of documenting nature’s spectacle. Above, the texture of the ceiling recalls the arid landscape of the desert, subtly connecting the interior environment with the vast wilderness that lies in darkness beyond the room.
In this moment, the photographer, surrounded by the artifacts of his journey and the enveloping night, finds himself in a reflective pause, immersed in the deep solitude that accompanies the creative process.
~Paul Smith
DEATH VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
During Tropical Storm Hilary, Death Valley is transformed by the rare sight of temporary waters reshaping the typically arid landscape into a striking scene. The valley’s usually dry expanses are captured in this photograph, now flooded, with the waters reflecting the turbulent sky above. This ephemeral scene is further enriched by an oily-like film on the water’s surface that is caused by natural oils from plants, minerals, and microbial activities.
The composition of the photograph—reflective waters, resilient desert flora, and an imposing mountain backdrop beneath a sky dotted with fast-moving clouds—illustrates nature’s contrasting forces. The black and white imagery enhances this effect, emphasizing the textures of the desert floor and the rugged mountain contours.
The foreground is vividly detailed, contrasting sharply against the softer water edges, creating a rich tapestry of desert textures. The interplay of light and shadow masterfully highlights the shapes of the land and the fluid dynamics of the flood, capturing the artistic splendor of a desert in flux—a rare moment where water graces its parched grounds.
~Paul Smith
DEATH VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
The photograph before us serves as a striking testament to the raw power of nature, taken during the historical deluge brought on by Tropical Storm Hilary in Death Valley National Park. On August 20th, 2023, the desert valley, known for its unforgiving dryness, received a staggering 2.2 inches of rain. This unprecedented event, which marked the highest rainfall recorded in a single day, led to the park’s closure for an extensive period due to the substantial flood damage.
Through the photographer’s lens, we see the unexpected aftermath: a landscape transformed. Where there once was parched soil, now reflective pools stretch across the terrain, mirroring the dramatic dance of clouds above. The composition captures the breadth of the flooding, with water winding through the desert like a series of serpentine pathways.
The mountains in the distance bear witness to this surreal inversion of climate, as the usually stark and sun-scorched earth is momentarily subdued and softened by the touch of water. This scene is a visual record of a profound and historic weather event, where water, the giver of life, momentarily claimed dominion over a land of extremes.
~Paul Smith
DEATH VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
In the wake of Tropical Storm Hilary’s record rainfall in Death Valley National Park, this image captures the momentous reshaping of an ancient landscape. A formidable Hummer H2 stands at the edge of what was once a road, now surrendered to the torrents that turned dormant sea beds into rivers of mud and rock. The power of the elements is evident in the newly sculpted terrain, with the desert claiming back its dominion with undeniable might.
The composition of the image speaks to the dramatic transformation wrought by the storm. The once clear path of the road now blends into the chaos of the desert floor, with the vehicle poised as if on the brink of an unknowable journey. The converging lines of the tire tracks and the sweeping flow of the mud draw the eye toward the horizon, beneath a sky still telling of recent turmoil. The juxtaposition of the engineered might of the Hummer against the raw force of nature emphasizes the ephemeral nature of human attempts to tame the wild. It is a poignant visual metaphor for the resilience of the natural world and a reminder of the transient imprint of man on the earth.
~Paul Smith
OURAY, COLORADO
In this composition, our eyes are drawn skyward by the towering trees, their trunks leading to the spectacle in the upper left—the sun’s rays piercing the canopy, creating a radiant burst among the branches. This focal point of light infuses the scene with a dynamic energy, illuminating the foliage and casting intricate shadows.
The image’s textures are rich and varied: the rugged bark of the trees stands in sharp relief against the sky, while the leaves are detailed with light’s touch, forming a delicate veil over the starkness of the branches. The interplay of shadow and brilliance adds depth and complexity, underscoring the contrasting elements of nature’s own artistry.
Overall, the photograph captures the grandeur of the great outdoors in a dance of light and shadow. It’s a scene that balances the enduring solidity of the trees with the transient, almost celestial play of sunlight, offering a moment of beauty that is both striking and evanescent.
~Paul Smith
GREEN RIVER, UTAH
In this striking black and white scene, the natural world’s quiet drama unfolds. Center stage, an aged coil of wire, weathered and patinaed, hangs from a wooden post atop rugged logs. This old wire, tightly wound into a dense mass, casts a complex web of hard, intricate shadows that delve deep into the entangled form, enriching the visual texture and depth of the composition.
The logs, marked by the passage of time with deep cracks and a stoic presence, offer a stark contrast to the wire’s curled embrace. Shadows, sharply defined against the natural contours of the logs, accentuate the rich tapestry of textures that speaks to the resilience and adaptability of nature.
Overhead, a canopy of clouds softens the scene, their gentle forms stretching across the sky, providing a serene balance to the detailed intricacy below. This composition, a harmonious blend of light and shadow, angular and curved, weaves a narrative of nature’s quiet majesty and the intricate beauty found in the wild.
~Paul Smith
UNKNOWN LOCATION
There’s a tree out there in the desert, standing alone. Its branches, like the arms of an old warrior, tell a silent tale of resilience. They reach up and out, sketching a story of struggle against the backdrop of a scattered cloud sky. In black and white, this tree is more than a feature of the landscape; it’s a character in its own right.
The way this tree is framed, off to the side, it’s as if it’s stepping into the scene, introducing itself. The composition, with its play of hard shadows and sunlit edges, guides your eyes and makes you take a second look — a third, even. It invites you to lose yourself in the contrasts, in the rough texture of the bark and the softness of the sky. It’s compelling, this visual dialogue between the tree and its surroundings.
And for anyone taking this in, it’s not just a picture. It’s an experience, an invitation to explore the subtle details and the bold outlines that define this corner of the world. This image doesn’t just capture a moment in nature; it’s a visual meditation on the stark poetry of the wild, urging a contemplation of the lines, textures, and forms that compose our natural world.
~Paul Smith
RICE, CALIFORNIA
In the unrelenting embrace of the Mojave Desert’s sun, all that remains of a once-thriving stop along the road near Rice, California, is the stark outline of a gas station’s canopy. Standing tall on a concrete slab, this structure has transformed into a monument to movement and stillness—a shoe tree. The image, rendered in the clear light and dark of black and white, speaks to the continuum of desert passages.
Here, shoes dangle from what was once simply a shield against the sun and rain for travelers. Now, each pair is a chapter in a story, the physical remnants of people’s journeys, suspended in the air. This peculiar collage, juxtaposed with an old tire resting on the ground, speaks volumes of the unexpected stops and car troubles that are all too familiar to those who traverse the long roads.
Can you picture your own journey punctuated here, in the company of so many others, your shoes swaying with the desert’s breath? This scene invites you to ponder the miles trekked and the moments lived, now hanging quietly in this wide-open space. It’s a meditation on the constancy of the Mojave Desert, a place where even the remnants of human passage—shoes, tires, memories—become part of its enduring narrative.
~Paul Smith
GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA
Perched on the edge of Bright Angel Point along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, a trio of individuals is engaged in the meditative practice of chanting mantras. These sacred utterances, aimed at focusing the mind and cultivating a sense of tranquility, resonate with the profound depths of the canyon. Each participant, positioned among the ancient stones and enduring tree, becomes a part of the timeless landscape.
In the image, the composition captures the gentle blur of hands in motion, their gestures a silent but powerful language complementing the spoken mantras. This slight softness amidst the sharp textures of the rocky ground and the intricate branches above brings a sense of movement and life to the otherwise still scene.
The interplay of light filtering through the foliage graces the scene with a soft luminosity, highlighting the fluidity of their gestures as they connect with the spiritual essence of this place. The result is a photograph that not only documents a moment of shared spiritual practice but also evokes the dynamic energy of the mantra in the stillness of nature.
~Paul Smith
HELPER, UTAH
The photograph frames a piece of bygone Americana in monochrome, focusing on the timeworn ‘MOTEL’ sign, its bold letters standing out despite their chipped and faded edges. The texture of the corrugated metal surface, with each ridge subtly interacting with the light, adds depth and character to the image, softly echoing the sign’s physical decline.
Beneath the main sign, a smaller placard directs visitors with the words ‘OFFICE IN STATION,’ suggesting stories of travel and transient stays. The contrast between the sturdy metal and the enveloping, wild brush captures a clash between the man-made and the natural.
The composition of the image, with the sign asymmetrically nestled among the overgrowth, evokes a sense of quiet desolation and nostalgia for a time when such signs gleamed with promise along bustling highways. The nuanced lighting and gentle shadows weave together to highlight the sign’s enduring texture, offering a visual narrative that draws the viewer into a contemplation of histories both personal and shared.
~Paul Smith
RIDGEWAY, COLORADO
This black and white photograph, with a hint of sepia tone, captures a sweeping view of nature’s grandeur, anchored by the linear simplicity of a wooden fence. The parallel rails of the fence, weathered and worn, converge in the distance, drawing the viewer’s eye toward the horizon. This perspective creates a sense of depth and guides the gaze across the textured grasses of the pasture to the rugged majesty of the mountains beyond.
The grasses, standing tall and distinct, sway with a life of their own, their individual blades highlighted by the stark contrast of light and hard shadows. These natural textures play against the orderly fence, emphasizing the wildness of the landscape.
In the background, the mountain range rises with commanding presence, its contours sharply defined against the expansive sky. The clouds above soften the scene, their fluffy forms drifting peacefully over the harsher lines below. The entire composition, with its interplay of structured rails and untamed wilderness, captures the essence of the great outdoors—a place of quiet resilience and enduring beauty.
~Paul Smith
BANNOCK COUNTY, IDAHO
This black and white image captures a pastoral scene of precision and pattern. It shows a field of freshly cut hay, the lighter stripes indicating neat piles of dry hay ready for baling. Interspersed are the darker stripes, the lush green stalks of new hay growing up through the earth, promising the cycle’s continuation.
The rows curve with the natural undulations of the landscape, creating a rhythmic flow that draws the eye across the field to the rolling hills beyond. The hard shadows cast by the sun lend definition to each row, emphasizing the alternating pattern of cut and growing hay.
The photograph is textured with the contrast of the hay’s roughness against the softness of the new growth. The sky above, dotted with clouds, stretches out over this agrarian quilt, its vastness accentuating the earth’s fertility. In this serene expanse, the image is a tribute to the timeless tradition of haymaking—a moment captured where growth and harvest exist in perfect balance.
~Paul Smith
MERRILL, OREGON
Under the broad expanse of an Oregon sky, the Polar Bear diner in Merrill presents itself in a stark black and white photograph. The establishment’s sign, reminiscent of classic American diners, promises nostalgic treats. In the background, the Merrill water tower stands as a longstanding fixture of this small town, its name a testament to local pride.
Positioned before the diner, a Hummer H2 provides a contrast to the timeless allure of the diner, its contemporary form casting a solitary silhouette. The sun’s relentless gaze draws hard shadows from both the architecture and the parked vehicle, which pattern the ground in alternating stripes of darkness and light.
The diner, with its windows like eyes to the past, stands ready to continue its tradition of community service. The sky, textured with clouds, overlooks this scene, a silent witness to the steady rhythm of life in Merrill, Oregon.
~Paul Smith
BEDROCK, COLORADO
The photograph presents a rustic bus stop in Bedrock, Colorado, where the ingenuity of its design is highlighted by the windows above the bench. These are covered with a reed matting, ingeniously serving as a natural diffuser for the sunlight, creating a calming pattern of shadows upon the flat surface of the log bench. This bench, carved from an old log, seamlessly blends functionality with the natural aesthetics of its surroundings.
Adjacent to this quaint sitting area, a hand-painted sign confirms its identity as a “School Bus Stop.” The script, rendered on weathered wood, captures the essence of this small community, suggesting a place where such personal touches are as much a part of the landscape as the shelter itself. The composition of the image, focusing on these elements, weaves together a visual narrative that feels both intimate and evocative of the community’s connection to its natural setting.
~Paul Smith
MOAB, UTAH
The photograph presents a stark tableau, capturing the engineering prowess of a Hummer H2 juxtaposed against the vast expanse of a desolate landscape. Perched at the edge of a high cliff, the vehicle serves as a commanding focal point, embodying the spirit of adventure and human endeavor against nature’s grand canvas.
Textures come into play: the intricacies of the rock beneath the Hummer are sharply defined, creating a vivid contrast with the vehicle’s smooth, solid lines. The angular sunlight casts hard shadows that stretch out beneath the vehicle, creating a visual anchor and adding a sense of gravity and dimension to the precarious setting.
Below, a network of roads winds through the terrain, a testament to human presence in this wild region, drawing the viewer’s eye toward the distant horizon. The black and white composition strips away the distractions of color, focusing the narrative on the drama of contrast and the stark beauty of the landscape, from the rugged cliffside to the sweeping plains. It’s a scene that encapsulates the essence of exploration: a solitary machine in harmony with the vast, untouched world.
~Paul Smith