A Winter's Snack
A tufted titmouse clutches a sunflower seed in its beak as it perches on a nearly empty bird feeder in December. The bird's direct gaze engages the viewer, highlighting its keen presence in the scene. Despite the winter chill, the surrounding evergreen foliage adds a touch of warmth to the composition, creating a contrast between the cold season and the vibrant greenery.
View StoreAdventure
This photo captures a midsize waterfall cascading down solid rock. A large boulder sits atop the waterfall, creating a dramatic focal point. The image is taken standing within the falls, providing a unique perspective of the flowing water. In the scene, two middle-aged adventurers are seen hiking along the top of the waterfall. One of them carries a large walking stick, adding a sense of scale and adventure to the composition.
View StoreAmerican Bald Eagle
In South Carolina, an American Bald Eagle perches gracefully, its vivid yellow beak standing out against a backdrop of green foliage. The eagle's wide, yellow beak contrasts sharply with its pristine white head and brown feathered body. The clarity of the eagle's features and the rich brown shades of its plumage create a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery, showcasing the eagle’s regal presence and natural elegance.
View StoreAppalachian Allure
A meerkat basks on a rock near its den, soaking up the summer sun at the Houston Zoo in Texas. Its striped body, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment, highlights its natural camouflage. Relaxed and content, the meerkat’s poised demeanor under the warm sunlight captures a tranquil moment of summer ease.
View StoreAutumn Majesty
The photo captures a breathtaking view from a mountain top, where the golden hour light casts long shadows across the rugged terrain of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The rich contrast between the shadowed peaks and the vibrant fall foliage—orange, yellow, red, and green—creates a dramatic and awe-inspiring scene. The expansive view into the valleys below evokes a sense of majesty and invites the viewer to embrace the adventure of nature’s grandeur.
View StoreAutumn's Mosaic
From a vantage point on a neighboring mountain, the photo captures a rocky ledge adorned with scattered fall foliage. The scene reveals a stark contrast between the vibrant deciduous trees—brilliant in orange, red, and yellow— clinging to the rock's face and the evergreen trees dominating the mountain ridge above. The distinct separation of tree types, along with the vivid colors, invites the viewer to ponder the ecological reasons behind this colorful juxtaposition and encourages exploration of the landscape's natural diversity.
View StoreBaraj Valea Drăganului
This photo captures the Baraj Valea Drăganului (Valea Drăganului Dam) in Romania, taken on a warm July day in 2024. Surrounded by the lush greenery of the Apuseni Mountains, the dam, built in the 1970s, creates Lake Drăgan, a key reservoir for hydroelectric power. Rising 120 meters (393 feet) and spanning 424 meters (1,390 feet), the dam blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, while the calm lake, fed by the Drăgan River, provides a peaceful contrast to its engineered structure. The scene reflects the harmony between the dam and the vibrant forests that frame it.
View StoreBear in the Clouds
“Bear in the Clouds" captures the tranquil beauty of a post- storm landscape, where golden hour light bathes the scene in a warm glow. Fog drapes the surroundings, leaving only a few trees visible as the sun breaks through, creating a radiant golden atmosphere. Amid the layers of mist, a formation strikingly resembles a bear poking its head out of the clouds, adding a touch of whimsy to the serene moment. This photograph highlights the magical interplay of light, fog, and imagination in nature’s ever-changing canvas.
View StoreBeauty & Grace
A Galapagos sea lion is captured mid-stretch, arching its head back to scratch its back. As it performs this elegant maneuver, its whiskers are caught in mid-air, showcasing their clean white color. The sea lion's closed eyes and serene expression enhance the sense of calm and gracefulness. The rich shades of brown on its back contribute to the photo's beauty, while the detailed markings on its face— resembling a streak of eye shadow—highlight its distinctive features.
View StoreBeneath the Icy Glow
“Beneath the Icy Glow” presents a close-up view of icicles hanging from a rock overhang, their intricate forms catching the soft golden light of sunset. The melting icicles drip steadily, adding a sense of movement to the scene as the waning daylight contrasts with the cold, clear ice. The warm light enhances the texture and detail of the icicles, creating a striking juxtaposition between the seasonal chill and the evening’s warmth. This image captures the transient beauty of winter as it yields to the gentle embrace of twilight.
View StoreBlack & White
The striking pattern of a zebra is captured in this image, with the vertical line of its mane dividing the photo into two distinct halves. The vivid contrast between the black and white stripes is prominently displayed as the zebra bends down to drink water. Only the neck and the upper portions of its legs are visible, showcasing the unique variation in stripe patterns on each side of the zebra. This subtle difference in its stripes may not always be apparent, offering a closer look at the intricate details of its distinctive coat.
View StoreBlack Balsam
The Black Balsam Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway unfolds with lush greenery and a well-trodden path guiding the viewer toward the mountain's summit. The vibrant, verdant scenery beckons adventurers to explore and embrace the natural beauty of this serene landscape.
View StoreBlooming Mountain Laurel
A cluster of mountain laurel flowers is beautifully captured in bloom, standing out against the blurred backdrop of the mountain range. The vibrant pink and white blossoms contrast strikingly with the surrounding green foliage. Mountain laurels, found at higher elevations over 6000 feet or 1800 meters, add a touch of delicate color to the landscape. This photo highlights the intricate beauty of these high-elevation flowers.
View StoreBrașov from Above
An aerial view of Brașov reveals the iconic red-tiled roofs that blanket the city, a hallmark of traditional Romanian architecture. Set against the stunning Carpathian Mountains, the city’s medieval charm comes alive with the Council House at its heart, standing proudly next to the historic Black Church. In the center, the large fountain adds a lively touch to the square, where locals and visitors alike gather.
View StoreCăpițe
In the rural area of Dragan, this photograph showcases the artistry of Romanian "Căpițe" (haystacks), with their vibrant orange-yellow hue standing out against the lush green grass and surrounding forest. The haystack, meticulously arranged on a wooden frame, exemplifies traditional Romanian craftsmanship, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal. Two additional similar haystacks are visible in the background, underscoring the time-honored practice of hay storage in Romanian agriculture. This image beautifully captures the interplay between the colorful haystacks and the serene natural landscape, celebrating a cherished rural tradition.
View StoreCastaway
Captured on the Blue Ridge Parkway on 10/19/2023, this black and white masterpiece reveals a breathtaking illusion. What appears to be turbulent waves crashing in an ocean storm is, in fact, a mesmerizing shot of mountain ridges. The dark clouds above mirror a tempest, adding depth to the illusion. A reminder of nature's awe-inspiring artistry, where mountains become seas and storms sculpt the sky.
View StoreCelestial Convergence
“Celestial Convergence” captures the awe- inspiring moment of the Super Blood Wolf Moon as it hung in the night sky over Chapel Hill, NC, in January 2019. The moon, bathed in hues of blue, purple, pink, and red, stands near the center of the image, radiating an ethereal glow that symbolizes the convergence of three lunar events: the Supermoon, Blood Moon, and Wolf Moon. Speckles of distant stars subtly frame the moon, adding depth to the vast expanse of the dark sky. This image encapsulates a rare celestial event, inviting viewers to reflect on the cosmic forces that shape our universe.
View StoreCrowned in Mist
“Crowned in Mist” captures the grandeur of a large rock face and its surrounding landscape. The prominent rock face, marked by its white and gray tones, supports a scattering of trees, adding a touch of life to its rugged surface. Behind this mountain, a flowing mist creates a subtle contrast with the otherwise clear view. This photograph highlights the striking interplay between the solid rock and the delicate, ephemeral mist that graces the mountains.
View StoreCumberland
A great blue heron perches gracefully on a dock, overlooking a serene marshland that leads into the vast Atlantic Ocean. In the distance, a sailboat drifts across the water, adding to the peaceful coastal scene. This photo was taken at the Cumberland Island National Seashore in Georgia, the largest and southernmost barrier island on the Atlantic coast within the United States. Rich in history and natural beauty, Cumberland Island boasts over 9,800 acres of designated wilderness, preserving its wild landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
View StoreCuriosity
Through the bars of its enclosure, a curious monkey locks eyes with the viewer, its gaze intense and engaging. Enjoying a luscious green treat, the tilt of its head adds a touch of personality and intrigue. The scene captures a moment of shared curiosity, as if the monkey is savoring its dinner while observing the human visitors with a sense of wonder and amusement.
View StoreCurious Encounter
A black-and-white kitten locks eyes with the viewer, its inquisitive gaze hinting at an approaching interaction. Its sleek black coat is contrasted by white paws, hind legs, and a patch of fur running from chin to chest. Captured just moments before it stepped forward to inspect the camera, this photo reflects the curious and playful character of Brașov’s street life.
View StoreDry Falls
This photo presents the full grandeur of Dry Falls in the Highlands of North Carolina, capturing its impressive 75-foot drop in its entirety. The image freezes the powerful cascade of water mid-fall, showcasing the sheer force and beauty of this natural wonder. The expansive view highlights the waterfall's dramatic plunge, emphasizing the timeless allure and majesty of Dry Falls. This photograph offers a breathtaking glimpse into the dynamic and unyielding power of one of North Carolina's most celebrated waterfalls.
View StoreEaster's Blessing
A Dogwood tree in Clyde, North Carolina, bursts into bloom in mid-April, just days after Easter 2023. The vibrant white petals and yellow pollen of the Dogwood flowers create a striking contrast, with a few blooms prominently displayed in the foreground and many more in the background. The flower pattern, reminiscent of the Christian cross, symbolizes the tree’s legendary association with the crucifixion of Christ. The blooms' arrangement evokes the idea of renewal and spiritual significance, adding depth to the photo’s serene beauty.
View StoreEdge of the Storm
Dark storm clouds hover low over turbulent waters, split by a lone white cloud allowing a sliver of sunlight to pierce through. In the center, a looming rainstorm approaches with an ominous curtain of water, while shadows and light battle on either side. From my perch on an oceanfront deck, the storm reached me in minutes, unleashing pouring rain and thunder—a humbling display of nature's power.
View StoreEmerald Eyes
A sleek black cat with striking green-yellow eyes gazes directly at the viewer, exuding a calm and relaxed demeanor. Its eyes create a vivid contrast against its dark fur, drawing the viewer’s attention. The cat rests comfortably in a lush green field, with a few white wildflowers softly blurred in the foreground, adding a touch of delicate detail to the scene. The composition highlights the serene moment and the cat’s intense, yet serene, gaze, set against a backdrop of vibrant nature.
View StoreEmergence
In “Emergence,” the gibbous moon subtly commands attention as it floats serenely in the night sky. Positioned high and central, its soft glow contrasts against the deep, enveloping darkness, emphasizing the moon’s quiet dominance. The photo captures a moment of transition, where the moon’s form is both defined and mysterious, evoking a sense of wonder and introspection. The simplicity of the scene draws the viewer into a meditative experience, reflecting on the ever-present yet ever- changing nature of the cosmos.
View StoreFeathered Serenity
In a tranquil moment at the Greenville Zoo, a Rüppell's griffon vulture is seen meticulously plucking and preening its feathers while perched on a wooden post. The vulture's calm demeanor contrasts with the tightly closed swings in the background. With its head turned to reach its wings, the bird's focused grooming highlights the elegance and grace of this large raptor, known for its impressive wingspan and vital role in its native habitats.
View StoreFiery Sky
As the sun approaches the horizon on the Blue Ridge Parkway in late summer 2024, this photo captures the last moments before sunset. The sky, rich with detail, reveals clouds painted with the warm orange hue of the setting sun, giving the impression of a fire spreading across the heavens. The mountains below, bathed in blue, create a striking contrast, while the sun, like a glowing ember, casts its final light, surrounded by what appears to be wisps of smoke rising into the evening sky.
View StoreFrosted Slope
“Frosted Slope” reveals a rare winter tableau on the Blue Ridge Parkway in March, where an unexpected blanket of snow transforms the mountain slope into a serene winter wonderland. The image showcases a mix of evergreen trees at the center, their rich green contrasting with the surrounding frost-covered, leafless deciduous trees. The scene is rendered in a monochrome palette of white, with the evergreen's green offering a vivid splash of color against the otherwise muted landscape. This photograph captures the quiet majesty of a wintry scene, highlighting nature's unexpected beauty in a season not typically associated with snow.
View StoreFryingpan's Warmth
Nearing the top of the Frying Pan Lookout Tower, the metal staircase is bathed in a rich, blood orange hue from the setting sun behind the viewer. The warm reflection contrasts with the wintry landscape below, where the sunset’s glow adds a vibrant touch to the scene. This photograph captures the interplay of color and light as day transitions to night, enhancing the cold winter environment with a striking, warm glow.
View StoreGalapagos Sea Lion
A Galapagos sea lion, newly arrived at the Houston Zoo in 2023, is captured lounging on a rock ledge. Its sleek, brown skin glistens after a refreshing swim in the water. Native to the Galapagos Islands, these sea lions are known for their playful nature and adaptability to both land and sea environments. The photo highlights the sea lion’s relaxed posture and the vibrant sheen of its coat, emphasizing its natural elegance and recent addition to the zoo's collection.
View StoreGolden Afterglow
The sun filters through a thick layer of clouds and fog, creating a majestic scene as it nears sunset. Golden hues envelop the clouds, highlighted by the recent rainstorm. Transpiration from the trees adds to the ethereal effect, with clouds rising from the cooling earth—a contrast to the hot summer day now giving way to cooler temperatures. The atmosphere is filled with the remnants of the rain, forming new clouds that drift upwards towards the sky.
View StoreGraceful Glide
In this black-and-white photograph, a mute swan glides gracefully across the lake, its serene presence accentuated by the gentle ripples created with each stroke of its paddles. The sun's glimmer on the water's surface, captured on the right side of the image, adds a subtle beauty and a touch of elegance to the scene. The swan’s smooth movement towards this glimmer enhances the tranquil and timeless quality of the moment.
View StoreGradient Horizon
This vertical photograph embraces a minimalist aesthetic. The top two-thirds of the image showcase a gradient of colors transitioning from the sunset’s red-orange hues to the deep blue sky above. The sun, positioned just above the mountain ridge, silhouettes a few trees against the vibrant orange backdrop. The stark contrast between the warm tones of the sunset and the cool tones of the sky highlights the simplicity and beauty of the natural scene.
View StoreHidden Surprise
This photo highlights an Eastern Lubber Grasshopper in Florida, showcasing its striking orange and yellow coloration against the dark backdrop of tall grass. Positioned at the center of the image, the grasshopper’s vivid colors contrast with the surrounding green foliage. Despite its bright hues, it blends into its environment, seemingly aware of the viewer while remaining well-camouflaged among the tall grasses. The Eastern Lubber Grasshopper is known for its distinctive appearance and can often be found in grassy areas throughout its range.
View StoreHighland Whispers
A winding river carves its way through a hidden creek deep in the Highlands of North Carolina. The smooth, weathered rocks, adorned with a soft layer of moss, tell tales of time and water’s patient touch. Surrounding the river, vibrant green foliage embraces the banks, exuding a sense of renewal and tranquility, as if nature itself is offering a moment of quiet healing.
View StoreIlluminated Faith
A photo captures the cross at Lake Junaluska in Waynesville, North Carolina, backlit by the rising sun on a clear day. The sun casts a warm yellow-orange hue across the sky, with the mountains in the background gently silhouetted. The cross is illuminated by 74 lights on each side, a prominent symbol of the Christian faith in the community. This cross, which shines brightly at night, serves as a beacon of faith and unity for those visiting Lake Junaluska, a site known for its spiritual significance and community events.
View StoreKordofan Giraffe Profile
A Kordofan giraffe stands gracefully against a textured wall, showcasing the impressive length of its neck and the distinctive pattern of its coat. The image focuses on the upper portion of the giraffe, capturing the fine details of its mane along the back of its neck. The giraffe gazes to the side, offering a profile view that highlights the unique and intricate patterns of its spots. The photograph provides a close-up of the giraffe’s head and neck, revealing the elegance and beauty of this endangered subspecies.
View StoreLake Drăgan
This wide landscape photo captures the inviting beauty of Lake Drăgan on a warm summer day. The lake, framed by the lush evergreens of the Apuseni Mountains, stretches out beneath a partly cloudy sky, which enhances the warmth and sense of adventure in the scene. The dam is visible in the bottom left corner, blending into the vibrant greenery. The landscape invites visitors to explore the lake's waters, perfect for recreation such as boating or fishing, while the surrounding mountains offer countless hiking trails, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
View StoreLegend of the Dogwood
Captured in April 2023, shortly after Easter Sunday, this photo highlights a freshly bloomed Dogwood flower in vibrant detail. The central bloom, with its prominent yellow pollen, symbolizes the crown of thorns from the crucifixion of Christ. Surrounding this central flower are delicate red markings on the petals, representing the points of the cross, while additional blooms adorn the tree in full display. This image intertwines the beauty of nature with profound Christian symbolism, celebrating both renewal and spiritual reflection.
View StoreLocals
Vibrant green and yellow buildings line a charming street in Brașov, radiating a cheerful atmosphere that mirrors the welcoming spirit of the city. The sign for "The Locals" store on the green façade emphasizes the strong sense of community, while hanging flowers add a delicate touch of nature. Above, the iconic white "Brașov" sign stands out against the lush summer greenery of the mountain. This blend of local heritage and natural beauty captures the essence of Brașov’s harmonious connection between the town and its surrounding landscape.
View StoreLunar Majesty
This striking image captures a full moon prominently positioned in the top right of the frame. The moon’s surface details are sharply defined against the deep black of the night sky, with notable craters such as Copernicus and Plato clearly visible. The lack of stars emphasizes the moon's isolation and grandeur, making it the focal point of the composition. The clarity of the lunar features offers a breathtaking view into the moon's rugged landscape, showcasing its silent, celestial beauty.
View StoreLush Horizons
The landscape near the start of the Art Loeb Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway reveals a vibrant, green expanse in July 2020. Shadows from passing clouds and a brilliant blue sky enhance the scene, which offers a glimpse of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the lower portion of the photo. The area is dotted with bushes and small shrubs, lacking the towering trees of denser forests. This lush terrain is a favorite habitat for local wildlife, including deer and black bears, highlighting its rich natural beauty and ecological importance.
View StoreMajestic Repose
A large male African lion rests atop a clay structure, his powerful paws splayed outward as he gazes contemplatively towards the sky. The lion's regal presence is accentuated by the natural clay of his perch, providing a hint of the habitat this magnificent creature calls home. The scene captures the lion’s commanding yet serene demeanor, emphasizing both his strength and his calm moments of rest.
View StoreMegahorn
This photo showcases an Ankole cattle cow at the Houston Zoo, focusing on the impressive size of its horns. Captured from the left side, the image highlights the horn's intricate zigzag or spiral pattern, emphasizing its considerable size relative to the cow's body. The photo offers a striking view of this unique feature, illustrating the grandeur of the Ankole cattle’s horns.
View StoreMooney Falls in Motion
“Mooney Falls in Motion” showcases the serene beauty of a 15-foot waterfall nestled within the dense foliage of the Great Smoky Mountains. Captured with a long shutter speed, the photograph elegantly portrays the cascading water's path as it flows over rocks and fallen trees, adding a sense of motion to the scene. Despite the darkness of the surrounding forest, the illuminated waterfall and the trees create a striking contrast, highlighting the natural drama of this hidden gem. The presence of the fallen trees across the base adds a timeless quality to the tranquil landscape.
View StoreMount Pisgah
Captured in late summer of 2024, this photo features the iconic tower atop Mount Pisgah, a popular hiking destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The vibrant green trees and clear blue sky enhance the scene, emphasizing the beauty of the warm summer day. The tower, originally built in 1953, stands proudly in the center of the photo, pointing toward the sky. The surrounding platform, a favorite spot for hikers, offers breathtaking views of the lush landscape below.
View StoreNavigating the Waves
This striking image captures a Hooded Merganser cutting through the still blue waters of a lake. The lone duck creates a V-shaped wake as it navigates its own path amidst the ripples that challenge its course. The bird's gaze, directed perpendicular to its movement, evokes a sense of contemplation or reflection. This scene can symbolize the journey of forging one's own way through obstacles, illustrating the resilience and determination required to overcome life's hurdles while maintaining a sense of direction and purpose.
View StorePathway to the Smoky Horizon
“Pathway to the Smoky Horizon” captures the breathtaking view from the peak of Waterrock Knob on the Blue Ridge Parkway in July 2020. From this vantage point, the winding parkway is visible far below, while the signature “smoke” of the Smoky Mountains drifts along the ridge at the top of the image. The vibrant green of the evergreens and deciduous trees adds life to the scene, and a large rock in the foreground beckons the viewer to stand upon it, inviting them to gaze out over the expansive and serene landscape ahead.
View StorePeak Autumn Vibrance
The photo showcases the vibrant colors of peak fall season on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The foliage bursts with intense orange hues, contrasted sharply against the evergreens’ deep green. The Blue Ridge Mountains, appearing in blue tones, are highlighted by the long shadows cast by the setting sun. The saturation of the colors enhances the surreal beauty of the scene, making it look almost otherworldly.
View StorePerched on Tradition
This photo shows a pigeon perched on the rich, bright orange roof of a building in the village of Drăgan, Romania. The roof highlights traditional Romanian craftsmanship, where red clay tiles have long been a hallmark of the region’s architecture. These tiles, handmade from local materials, are fired at high temperatures, giving them their distinct reddish hue, which complements the natural landscape. Historically, this traditional roofing method provided excellent durability and insulation. Red-tiled roofs have become a symbol of Romania's rural and mountainous landscapes, blending seamlessly with the surrounding greenery and creating a picturesque scene.
View StorePurple Stripe Jellyfish
This photo captures a purple stripe jellyfish at the Houston Zoo aquarium, its vibrant pink and purple hues contrasting beautifully against the deep blue water. The jellyfish is swimming to the left, with its diverse and delicate tentacles fully displayed within the frame. The image highlights the mesmerizing colors and graceful movements of this captivating marine creature.
View StoreRainbow's Embrace
“Rainbow’s Embrace” captures the enchanting moment when a vivid rainbow arcs down into a lush valley on the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the overlook, the rainbow seems to touch the base of a patch of clouds, a remnant of the recent rainstorm, suggesting a whimsical pot of gold hidden within. The warm summer day and the vibrant green foliage of the landscape enhance the scene, creating a magical and serene atmosphere that invites viewers to imagine the treasures that might lie at the rainbow’s end.
View StoreRed-backed Shrike
A male red-backed shrike perches confidently on a wooden fence post at the edge of a cow pasture, standing out against the tall, yellow grass that surrounds it. With its striking plumage contrasting vividly with the golden hues of the grass, the shrike surveys its surroundings, likely in search of food. This bird, commonly found in open farmlands with scattered bushes, uses elevated perches like this one for hunting. In the background, a cow grazes peacefully amidst the green landscape, adding a touch of rural charm to the scene.
View StoreRefreshing Cascade
“Refreshing Cascade” captures the dynamic flow of Lower Falls in the Graveyard Fields area of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Taken in September 2020, the photograph showcases the waterfall’s cascading waters and the rocky bottom, which is a popular spot for swimming. The Lower Falls, the closest of the two waterfalls in the area, is easily accessible via a short hike from the parking lot, making it a favorite among visitors. The Upper Falls, accessible by a more strenuous 3 -mile round-trip hike, complements this scenic spot. The image highlights the natural beauty and recreational appeal of this cherished destination.
View StoreRestful Moment
In this serene capture, a pelican in captivity settles down for sleep, its white feathers the sole burst of color in an otherwise dark photo. The image focuses on the bird's head and upper body, with its bill tucked in and eyes closed, resting peacefully with its wings folded close to its body. A subtle identification mark on its leg is visible upon closer inspection. Perched upon a branch, the pelican's tranquil pose and subdued surroundings evoke a sense of calm and quietude.
View StoreResting Majesty
A large male African lion reclines on a clay structure, his head resting on his paws as if on the brink of sleep. The close-up captures the lion’s face in great detail, with its magnificent mane framing the image. His paws, visible in the lower right corner, add to the sense of scale and softness. The lion's intense gaze directly at the viewer reveals the intricate textures of his fur and mane, highlighting both his regal presence and the gentle softness of his features.
View StoreRetro Glow
This photo captures the sun setting behind the Blue Ridge Mountains, just moments before it disappears. The sun's color gradient, transitioning from stark yellow at the top to a deep, dark red at the bottom, evokes a vintage '80s retro sunset, reminiscent of disco themes. The blending of colors creates a dramatic contrast, with the deep red fading into black as it nears the horizon, casting a nostalgic glow over the landscape.
View StoreRipples of Dawn
“Ripples of Dawn” captures the ethereal moment when a heron stands silhouetted against the golden light of sunrise in the Florida Everglades National Park. The bird’s form is subtly reflected in the water, which shimmers with the warm hues of the rising sun, though the reflection is gently distorted by the ripples on the surface. This photograph highlights the interplay of light and water, where the heron’s presence and the natural beauty of the scene are rendered in a captivating dance of golden reflections and fluid motion.
View StoreRiver's Rhythm
“River’s Rhythm” captures the elegant flow of a wide river in the Highlands region of North Carolina. Using a slow shutter speed, the photograph reveals the dynamic movement of the water, while the surrounding elements, including a fallen tree wedged between two rocks, remain still. The image contrasts the lively motion of the river with the serene, unchanging landscape, highlighting the natural harmony and rhythm of this tranquil scene.
View StoreRoaring Waters
This photo captures a portion of the lower section of Dry Falls in the Highlands of North Carolina. The image focuses on the dramatic crashing water below, which creates the illusion of a separate, smaller waterfall. The dynamic flow of water from above and the turbulence below emphasize the wild and adventurous spirit of the falls. Known for its impressive 75-foot drop and the ability to walk behind the cascading water, Dry Falls showcases the raw power and beauty of nature, making it a cherished destination for those seeking to experience the majesty of the natural world.
View StoreSemipalmated Plover
A young semipalmated plover, still developing its distinctive black neckband, wanders along the shoreline during its September migration. Its solitude and curiosity create a rare opportunity to capture its delicate features up close. The plover moves gracefully near the water's edge, a spot often frequented by boats, exploring the sandy terrain with youthful confidence. This fleeting moment offers a glimpse into the life of a migratory bird on its incredible journey.
View StoreShaded Rest
A meerkat lounges inside an old tree log, finding respite from the summer heat at the Houston Zoo in Texas. Seeking shade from the warm sunlight, it settles in for a peaceful nap, nestled comfortably in its natural hideaway. The cozy setting within the log provides a serene escape from the bustling zoo environment.
View StoreSmooth Sailing
A sailboat glides gracefully across the waters near the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston, South Carolina. This iconic cable-stayed bridge, with its towering concrete pylons and sleek design, forms a striking backdrop against the deep blue sky of a crisp summer evening. Hints of pink clouds linger, adding a touch of warmth to the cool tones of the scene. The sailboat, its white sails billowing, occupies the foreground, with a man at the helm gazing ahead, charting the boat's course. The interplay of the dark blue water, soft sky hues, and the bridge's gray structure creates a serene yet dynamic composition.
View StoreSolitude
This serene photo captures the calm waters of Lake Drăgan, framed by the lush, forested mountains of the Apuseni range. In the bottom right corner, a small building sits quietly by the water’s edge, offering a sense of scale to the vast natural surroundings. The focus is on the lake’s still surface and the vibrant greenery that stretches up the mountains, showcasing the beauty of the Romanian landscape around Valea Drăganului. The scene feels peaceful and isolated, with the surrounding nature providing a quiet backdrop.
View StoreSummer Sentinel
In “Summer Sentinel,” a black-capped chickadee perches on a bell-shaped seed feeder, its inquisitive eye capturing the viewer’s attention. The soft blur of summer greenery in the background frames this intimate moment, drawing focus to the bird’s delicate features and the simple beauty of its surroundings. The chickadee’s sideward glance suggests a moment of stillness, as if it’s pausing to observe its world. This photograph invites viewers to appreciate the quiet, everyday scenes of nature that often go unnoticed, highlighting the serene charm of a summer day in Clyde, North Carolina.
View StoreSummer Serenity
Looking Glass Rock emerges prominently against a backdrop of dense, summer foliage in Asheville, North Carolina. The scene captures the essence of the temperate rainforest, with lush greenery indicative of abundant water and clouds hinting at an approaching rainstorm. The clean, fresh air and the inviting landscape make this area perfect for hiking and outdoor relaxation.
View StoreSunbathing
A meerkat basks on a rock near its den, soaking up the summer sun at the Houston Zoo in Texas. Its striped body, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment, highlights its natural camouflage. Relaxed and content, the meerkat’s poised demeanor under the warm sunlight captures a tranquil moment of summer ease.
View StoreSunburst
About 15 minutes after photographing “Appalachian Allure”, the sunset reveals a striking six-pointed starburst emanating from the sun, creating a captivating blend of symmetry and light. The sun's orange-red glow envelops the landscape in a warm, reddish haze, intensifying the serene beauty of the evening. This vivid display highlights the dynamic interplay of light and color as the day transitions to night, offering a mesmerizing view of the southern Blue Ridge Parkway bathed in the sunset's radiant embrace.
View StoreSunflower Serenade
“Sunflower Serenade” captures the vibrant and joyful scene of the annual "City of Sunflowers" event in Raleigh, NC, held in August 2020. The photograph showcases a field predominantly filled with tall, bright sunflowers, with families and visitors enjoying the sunny day amidst this floral spectacle. The scene, part of a collaborative effort by the North Carolina Museum of Art and local organizations, highlights the sunflowers' radiant yellow blooms against a backdrop of other flowers. This lively and immersive display celebrates nature's beauty and the communal spirit of the event.
View StoreSunset over the Blue Ridge
As the sun dips halfway below the horizon, it casts a vivid red glow across the sky, illuminating the underside of the overlying clouds. The Blue Ridge Mountains, silhouetted against the fading light, appear in various shades of blue due to the diminishing sunlight. This rich gradient extends from the horizon to the viewer's vantage point. The setting sun, framed by the mountain ridges, resembles a watchful eye overseeing the tranquil landscape.
View StoreSunset's Icy Veil
“Sunset’s Icy Veil” captures the delicate beauty of icicles draping a rock face on the Blue Ridge Parkway. As the sun sets, its golden light bathes the scene in a warm glow, contrasting with the cold, crystalline icicles that hang from the rocks. The melting ice creates a dynamic interplay of dripping water, adding movement to the otherwise static landscape. This photograph highlights the ephemeral beauty of winter, where the fleeting warmth of sunset meets the persistent chill of ice, creating a moment of stunning contrast.
View StoreTapestry of Churches
Captured from a mountainside trail above Cluj- Napoca, this photo offers a panoramic view of the city's skyline, prominently featuring the iconic St. Michael's Church on the right. In the distance, several churches are scattered across the cityscape, with the Cathedral of Martyrs and Confessors of the 20th Century standing out as a significant and impressive structure.
View StoreThe M-Shaped Falls
This photo captures a waterfall with a unique M-shaped cascade, spouting from three distinct sections. The water flows onto a shallow riverbed with a flat rock face, displaying detailed patterns and hues ranging from orange to gray to white. Taken from the level of the rock, the image presents the waterfall as a prominent feature in the upper half of the frame, with the flat rock creating a dramatic foreground leading towards the falls.
View StoreThe Ravenel Bridge
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge in Charleston, South Carolina, highlights its striking triangular cable patterns against soft pink evening clouds. The bridge's immense scale is evident as cars and trucks appear tiny, showcasing its grandeur over the Cooper River.
View StoreThe Watchful Grazer
This striking photograph features a brown cow with a white face that gazes directly at the viewer, creating a compelling focal point in the scene. The contrast between the cow’s distinctive white face and its brown body stands out vividly against the lush yellow grass in the background. The vibrant yellow hues of the grass enhance the serene atmosphere, while the cow’s direct stare adds a personal touch to the pastoral scene. The image captures a moment of quiet connection between the viewer and the traditional practice of cattle grazing in Romania’s countryside, highlighting the harmony between the animal and its picturesque surroundings.
View StoreTower's Frame
“Tower’s Frame” captures the expansive view of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the Fryingpan Lookout Tower. The photograph uses the tower’s truss as a natural frame, highlighting the lush, green mountains against a partly cloudy summer sky. This framing effect not only enhances the natural beauty of the landscape but also emphasizes the harmonious relationship between the man-made structure and the surrounding scenery.
View StoreTranquility
A lone pigeon balances on one leg, peacefully resting on the edge of a small hole in a weathered wall. The simplicity of the scene contrasts the pigeon’s calm with the rugged texture of the wall, capturing a fleeting sense of tranquility.
View StoreTurkish Cap Lilies
A photo of Turkish Cap Lilies on the Blue Ridge Parkway highlights their vibrant orange blooms against the backdrop of a mountain. These lilies, native to North America, are known for their distinctive appearance with downward- facing, trumpet-shaped flowers resembling traditional Turkish hats. Unlike other flowers on the Parkway, the Turkish Cap Lily stands out for its unique curved design and elegant stature, reaching up to 6 feet tall. The blossoms, which appear in mid- summer, add a touch of historical and botanical charm to the lush landscape.
View StoreTwilight's Guardian
“Twilight’s Guardian” captures the quiet power of the landscape as day transitions to night. The center of the image glows with golden light from the setting sun, which peeks through the clouds, illuminating only a small portion of the sky. The rest of the scene is cloaked in the deepening shadows of evening. The distinct shape of a bear, formed by the illuminated clouds, stands watch over the sun, adding a mysterious and almost mythical quality to the image. This photograph beautifully contrasts the fading warmth of daylight with the encroaching darkness of night.
View StoreUnderwater Ballet
This photo presents a striking image of a purple striped jellyfish, showcasing its exceptionally long tentacles. One cluster of tentacles extends to the bottom left, occupying two-thirds of the frame, while the jellyfish’s head is positioned in the top third. Another tentacle rises to the right, along with other extremities. The composition evokes the graceful imagery of a dance, with the jellyfish’s tentacles resembling one leg on the ground and one in the air, with its arms extended. This delicate portrayal highlights the jellyfish’s fragility and elegance with remarkable grace.
View StoreWhimsy in the Marsh
This abstract photograph of a marshy environment in Chapel Hill’s Greenway in March captures the bare trees emerging from the waterlogged landscape. The trees are artistically blurred vertically, imbuing the scene with a whimsical, dreamlike quality. The water in the bottom left corner adds depth, while the intentional blur transforms the usual clarity of nature into a creative exploration of motion and spirit.
View StoreWilliamsburg Sheep
Peering through the wooden slats of a weathered Colonial Williamsburg fence reveals a sheep peacefully grazing in a lush green pasture. This pastoral scene harks back to the 18th century, where such fences and livestock were staples of daily colonial life. The timeless simplicity of the moment captures the enduring charm of this living history museum.
View StoreWinter Twilight
As the day draws to a close, the setting sun casts a dramatic shadow across the rugged terrain of Looking Glass Rock. The winter landscape is bathed in the warm hues of the sunset, with shades of orange and yellow blending into the cool blue of the evening sky. The photograph captures the transition from day to night, highlighting the stark contrasts and subtle warmth that the sunset imparts to the otherwise cold winter scene.
View StoreWinter Watchers
“Winter Watchers” captures a moment of natural hierarchy in the stark winter landscape of Western North Carolina. Atop a lone tree, an American Kestrel perches with keen eyes, surveying the world from its lofty vantage point. Below, a Northern Flicker spreads its vibrant wings of yellow and brown, providing a striking contrast against the muted gray sky. The Flicker, seemingly aware of the viewer, brings a burst of color and life to the winter scene, while the Kestrel’s focused gaze underscores its role as a vigilant guardian of the treetops. This image reflects the quiet resilience and beauty of wildlife during the coldest season, where each bird plays its part in the tapestry of nature.
View StoreWinter's Echo
“Winter’s Echo” captures a moment of quiet transition as a Carolina Chickadee perches amidst the bare branches of a redbud tree in early March. The bird’s presence is highlighted against the gray sky and dense, leafless foliage, embodying the subtle shift from winter’s chill to the promise of spring. As the chickadee sings into the cold air, its melody becomes an echo of the season’s change, bridging the gap between winter’s retreat and spring’s arrival.
View StoreWinter's Shadow Over Looking Glass Rock
A stark winter landscape unfolds with trees stripped of their leaves, revealing a broad expanse of bare branches. The central focus is Looking Glass Rock, a renowned hiking destination along the Blue Ridge Parkway and Western North Carolina. The harsh winter sun casts dramatic shadows across the terrain, with the mountain's ridges creating deep contrasts that accentuate the rugged beauty of the landscape.
View StoreWinter's Solitude
In the heart of Clyde, North Carolina, this winter scene captures the serene stillness of a snow-covered landscape. A prominent tree stands in the foreground, its branches delicately outlined by a fresh dusting of snow. Behind it, a snow-capped mountain rises, framed by evergreens and a few towering firs, all cloaked in white. The coldness of the season is palpable, with the snow emphasizing the intricate beauty of the natural world as it rests in winter's embrace.
View StoreWorkers of the Hive
“Workers of the Hive” provides a close-up view of the bees in New Orleans as they swarm around their nest box, captured in a moment of intense activity. The focus on the cluster of bees at the top of the image reveals their collective effort, whether they’re building or foraging. The dense blur of bees at the bottom underscores the hive’s bustling energy and teamwork. This photograph celebrates the industrious spirit of these remarkable insects, showcasing their tireless work and intricate social structure in a dynamic, close-up perspective.
View StoreZebra's Distinctive Stripes
This image captures the full pattern of a zebra's right side, highlighting the clear contrast between its black and white stripes. The details of the fur are vividly displayed, emphasizing the precise separation and distinctive lines between each stripe. This close-up view offers a detailed look at the zebra’s unique and intricate coat pattern.
View Store