A Year of Adventure and Beauty
My Favorite Landscape Photos of 2023
2023 was a year to remember. From Oregon’s dramatic coastlines to the autumn-kissed mountains of Colorado, I had the opportunity to photograph some truly incredible places. As always, I also made time to capture the beauty of my home near Mount Hood, as well as explore my longtime favorite—Central Oregon. So, here are my favorite landscape photos of 2023.
A Year of Travel and Teaching
This past year took me from the lush Columbia River Gorge to the peaceful bayous of Caddo Lake, with plenty of epic stops in between. I also had the privilege of leading and co-leading several photography workshops, sharing my love for the craft with passionate creatives from around the country.
Some of the images I’ve chosen were taken during these workshops, and each photo carries a story behind it. While these may not all be the most technically perfect, they are the ones that mean the most to me.
Why These 10?
Choosing just ten photos wasn’t easy. Every photographer knows that our connection to a photo goes beyond composition and light—it’s often tied to the experience of being there. I’m sure if I asked others to pick from my portfolio, their choices might differ. But that’s the beauty of art—it’s deeply personal.
My Favorite Landscape Photos of 2023
- Caddo Lake was a major theme in 2023. This magical place continues to influence the way I approach photography. At first, it challenged me—but now I feel like I’ve come to understand it. I’m already planning my return.
- My autumn trip to the San Juan Mountains of Colorado with Chris Byrne and our workshop group was truly unforgettable. We caught peak fall colors and even had a light dusting of snow—pure magic for a landscape photographer.
- As always, the Southern Oregon Coast delivered. The epic California redwoods were bathed in perfect beams of light. Chris Byrne and I feel lucky—or maybe charmed—that these conditions always seem to show up for us.
Looking Ahead
Please take time to explore Destination Earth Photography Tours, founded by Chris Byrne. Our team—Shane Kalyn, Lyle Krannichfeld, Chris, and myself—will be offering photo tours around the world.
Grateful for My Creative Partners
I want to thank my incredible friends and collaborators this year—Chris Byrne and Alyce Bender. Their support and companionship helped make so many of these images possible.
Mount Hood and Home
No collection would be complete without a nod to my backyard. I included a shot of a Mt. Hood Lily, taken in the warm light at the end of the day. I also chose a photo of Clear Creek near Zigzag, because no year feels whole without a mossy, forested frame from my home region.
My Favorite Landscape Photos of 2023
I hope you enjoy these images and the memories behind them. Every photo represents a piece of my journey this past year. Check out last year’s favorites. 🙂
👉 Fine art prints are available—contact me for more information..
