As 2019 was drawing to a close, Chelsea and I were fortunate enough to have the week of leading up to the new year. This also allowed my to have some time to look back on my photography over the last year, and even further back than that and reflect on how far I’ve come. I feel like I have made some great changes, for the better, in my photography. From starting my own website, to furthering my understanding on different techniques in composition and lighting, and finally the editing that goes on for hours after capturing the photos. With that being said, as much as I love shooting nature and the animals that live around us, going forward I want to challenge myself by stepping into portraiture photography. That is not to say that I won’t continue to go out and shoot nature, but I want to expand my skill set which will help me going into the future.
Northern Pineview Reservoir
As I had mentioned previously, with an entire week off it gave us plenty of time to get out with the dogs and do some exploring. The first hike we went on was along the northern bank of Pineview Reservoir after some good snow. It’s crazy coming from the other side of the mountains where there is almost no snow, to going into the valley and having over a foot of snow.
A few days later we decided to head up to one of our favorite hikes that passes the Bonneville Shoreline in Ogden for a quick outing with the dogs. Started on some of that portraiture work there with Jack and Maggie posing so nicely for me.
Then, another 2 days later we decided to head down south and find some new trails. The hike we decided on is called Flag Rock, which is evident in the photos. This was a nice 3.2mi round trip hike with 1,200ft elevation climb. Filled with plenty of switchbacks and open space it could be a very hot hike in the summer time, unless you were to start very early. But, with it being winter time it was very pleasant during mid-day. The entire way up was calm, until the last 1/4mi as we neared the peak, and that’s when the wind picked up. This made for a great photo of the flag overlooking the Salt Lake and beyond.
Flag Rock, Farmington Utah
Again, a few days later, we wanted to get the dogs out to run off some energy and went up one that we’ve done numerous times and is nice and close to the house. Again, in Ogden we went up the Indian Peak Trail. This trail started off clear of snow and slowly as we climbed and rounded the side of the mountain the trail changed to deep snow and shade which dropped the temp to below freezing. But, we found a great lookout spot to take a break and admire the snow/frost covered pine trees.
Finally, again a few days later (I know, starting to sound like a broken record) we headed to the other side of the mountains again to head up Old Trapper’s Loop Trail. The snow started falling as we drove up and made for some beautiful photos. It was only 15 degrees out, but while hiking up and your feet are pushing through the fresh powder it feels very comfortable, almost too warm. We also make sure the dogs are protected from the freezing temps. This starts with them wearing booties to protect their paws, especially Jack, being a doodle his hair holds snow and it will pack between his pads. But also a coat to keep some body heat in. Also, if anyone wonders how we get out dogs to wear the booties, it’s very simple all you need to do is put them on and go walk. They may walk funny at first but they are very smart and quickly begin to walk normal, so much so that Jack seems excited anytime we put them on in the snow that when he’s out of the truck he runs like crazy. All 4 of us really enjoyed this hike, even being in the frigid cold. The fresh powder coupled with the snow falling all around was a perfect setting for photos.
Last, but certainly not least, I am extremely happy with this portrait of my wife Chelsea and how it came out. Two miles in and the cold didn’t stop her from putting on a big smile and letting me get some practice in.
Overall, we had a great holiday break and were able to spend tons of time together and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’m looking forward to what the next year brings with new adventures as well as expanding my knowledge in photography. I hope everyone reading this had a great year and has an even better new year. Take time to enjoy the little things and take in the beauty of the world around us.