Posts by David Swindler
Southern Utah Fall Colors
Southern Utah Fall Colors produce intense shades of reds, oranges, and yellows are the perfect compliment to the desert scenery. Unlike other areas, the fall season here is very long – nearly 2 months in total! The leaves begin to change first in the highest elevations and eventually the color makes it’s way down to…
Read MorePhotographing Slot Canyons
What comes to mind when you think of slot canyons? If you’re like most people, you’ll envision that perfect beam of light coming down into Antelope Canyon. But most people don’t realize that slot canyons come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are mossy green and verdant. Others boast bold, colorful stripes in…
Read MoreHow to Master Long Exposures
I like long exposures since they show a view of the world we can’t see or appreciate with our own eyes. It’s one of the few forms of photography where the image on the camera can look better than the scene does in person! The image above is a geyser shot from a tall vantage…
Read MoreAlstrom Point
When the clouds and light work together, it can be pure magic out at Alstrom Point – a remote overlook high over Lake Powell. I’ve had great luck every time I’ve been out there. Even when skies have been clear everywhere else, clouds like to congregate around here! Even though I have many great images…
Read MoreSouth Coyote Buttes
South Coyote Buttes is a fascinating area to photograph. The shot above is a feature often called the Witch’s Hat. I climbed up a little butte to find some nice foreground fins. South Coyote Buttes is often overlooked since it lacks many of the “iconic” spots like The Wave in North Coyote Buttes. However, if…
Read MoreWhite Pocket
White Pocket is one of my favorite places in the desert southwest. Photographic possibilities are endless and great shots can be obtained in virtually all weather conditions. It’s famous for its large expanses of white brainrock, colorful swirls, and intricate cross-bedding. Many theories abound on how White Pocket was formed, but nobody really knows for…
Read MorePhotographing Bears
Out of all wildlife, I enjoy photographing bears the most. They are majestic and powerful animals that demand respect. The patient observer can be rewarded with a glimpse into their complex social network. They can exhibit so many human-like antics, attitudes, and behaviors. It’s fascinating to see them playing with each other, fighting, catching food,…
Read MoreThe Subway in Autumn
The Subway in Zion National Park ranks as one of the best hikes in the world. If you have the skill, the right gear, and the physical ability, descending the Subway from the top is highly recommended. Swimming is often required on this route and the water is cold so you’ll want a wetsuit. However, you…
Read MoreBighorn Sheep Rut
Late November into December is my favorite time to see the bighorn sheep rut. This is the period in which they mate. The sheep are much more tolerant of human presence since they are primarily concerned about each other. This is when you can observe many interesting behaviors and take some great photographs. The males…
Read MoreMystery Canyon
Mystery Canyon in Zion National Park is a really fun adventure. It features a nice selection of both short and long rappels and isn’t very technical. The scenery is constantly changing as you work your way down. If you go during the fall season (early Nov), then you’ll be treated to eye-catching foliage color. Watch…
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