Soft Landscapes

Frigid

Winters in the Dakotas are absolutely stinging! Double-digit below zero temperatures made for a very cold top layer of snow seen wafting over the road, crating a cauldron-like effect, on this image taken north of Sturgis, South Dakota.

Crown Jewel Livin'

I pulled off the highway in northwestern Montana here to photograph the Mission range, seen in the background. Then, I noticed the sky, once again, as there really is something unique about it in Big Sky Country. Once I spotted this barn in the distance I knew what type of composition I wanted, and walking across a young field of wheat made the experience even more unforgettable.

Western Embrace

The transition from the prairie to the steppe happens rather abruptly after crossing the Colorado border from Nebraska, and has always signaled to me that my beloved Rocky Mountains getting close, now.

Approaching Sopris

The commanding view of this mountain highlights the overall beauty and tranquility of the amazing Crystal River Valley in Colorado.