A Waterfall on the Roaring Fork River, Colorado

Traveling up to Independence Pass in Colorado, the road follows the Roaring Fork River. The narrow road twists and turns without many places to stop, but we finally found a place to pull off so that I could shoot some photography.  Setting off down a beaten path I found a rocky escarpment above the tumbling river. I arrived just at the moment a young man jumped into this pool from the opposite rocks. I watched in astonishment as he climbed out of the water and waited to see if he would do it again so I could take a picture. He stood there for quite awhile and I finally yelled at him, "Are you going to go again?" He replied, "No! It's too cold!" So alas, no brave young man appears in my photo.

Comments and shares are always appreciated.

Waterfall Pool

The river rock cliffs and cascading water of the Roaring Fork River near Aspen, Colorado.

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

As always, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts in my comments here or on my Facebook Page and Twitter Feed.

Mountain Landscape of Independence Pass, Colorado

It was an unusually warm day in September when we visited Independence Pass, elevation 12,095 feet. We were in light t-shirts and totally comfortable in the summery weather. Many people had stopped at the pass to enjoy the big sky view. One other couple I remember well, because they too were celebrating a wedding anniversary.  They were a couple years ahead of us.  After our conversation I watched as they walked off hand in hand enjoying a special day.  Then we did the same.  For me, it doesn't get better. Hope you enjoy the view!

On Top

Mountain landscape photo, of the vast alpine vistas of Rocky Mountain tundra.  

Independence Pass, Colorado.

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

As always, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts in my comments here or on my Facebook Page and Twitter Feed.

Rustic Mountain Outhouse in Independence, Colorado

Last September I took a trip to Aspen, Colorado. On the way up to the Continental Divide east of Aspen there is a little ghost town called Independence. I took this photograph of the outhouse with a great view there. It could be one of the highest outhouses in the USA at 10,830 feet elevation.  I did it in two versions; color, and black and white. I like both versions but for different reasons. I think the color version has better depth of field. However, the black and white fits the subject matter. Which do you like?

I'll be sharing more Colorado photography shot in Independence soon! Thanks in advance for your comments and shares.

Mountain Privy

Colorado outhouse photo, of a primitive rustic privy located in the alpine ghost town of Independence, Colorado. A perfect way to add the rustic beauty of the west to your home, office, or bathroom decor.

Mountain Privy BW

Colorado outhouse photo in black and white.

Independence, Colorado.

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

As always, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts in my comments here or on my Facebook Page and Twitter Feed.

Rocky Mountain Elk at Sundown

Nothing says autumn to me like bugling elk in Rocky Mountain National Park.  These two bachelors were taking the night off as the sun started to set.  They were with a group of about six other mature bull elk who were all bedding down for the night.  The alpine meadow was so serene and quiet, I could have watched them for hours.  

Visiting the park reminds me instantly of my place in the natural world; no more important or less important than any of the majestic creatures that share this beautiful world with me.  I would like to take each of you with me to witness this miracle of a planet, but I will settle for sharing a photo.  I hope you enjoy it!

Elk Sundown 

Two mature bull elks bed down for the evening in an alpine meadow as the sun goes down. 

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

 

more

  rocky mountain elk art

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

As always, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts in my comments here or on my Facebook Page and Twitter Feed.

Garden of the Gods, Colorado Photography

I have lived in northern Colorado for over twenty years and went to the "Garden of the Gods" for the first time last summer. I never meant to put it off for so long and when we finally did make plans I had my camera charged and anticipated getting many shots. Unfortunately, this is the only decent shot I got as that storm really did roll in and it poured the whole time! Sometimes it just goes that way. We had a fun day out anyway and ending up visiting Cave of the Winds. I am planning on going back for a second try this next year. Fingers crossed.

Garden of the Gods
An iconic red stone mountain rises up against a stormy sky in Colorado's Garden of the Gods.
purchase information

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

As always, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts about editorial, photography, and anything in between in my comments here or on my Facebook Page and Twitter Feed.

Crystal Fire in Northern Colorado

Although I am not sure if I have the words to write about our close proximity to this fire, I did want to share my past week with you through my camera lens.

Quick Facts on the Crystal Fire as of April 8, 2011
(from Larimer County Emergency Information)

Fire Start Date: 04/01/2011
Cause: Under Investigation
Fire Size: 3,200 acres
Contained: 55%
Total Personnel: Approximately 398
Additional resources: 5 crews, 4 helicopters, 27 engines
Burned Residences: 15

Crystal Fire in Redstone Canyon
The Crystal Fire though looking tame in this photo taken on Monday
comes to life again on Tuesday with high winds.
(The house at the bottom of the photo belongs to one of our volunteer firefighters and is safe as of this post.)

Crystal Fire Horse
A horse grazes near the smoldering mountain pine forest of the Crystal Fire.
(The horse is safe. Valley residents did not have time with this fast moving fire to trailer their horses to a safe location and instead set them free in the open range. The horses run from the fire and are later caught and returned home.)

Crystal Fire in Black and White
The pilots of these helicopters made numerous trips through the smoke to drop their load of water on the fire's hot spots.

Helicopter Bucket Drop
A helicopter bucket drop on the Crystal Fire in Redstone Canyon, Colorado.

Helicopter Tanker
A helicopter tanker flies over my home on its trip from the reservoir to drop its load of water on the Crystal Fire.

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

jfids7590fjg936bjp0459uu89U7NJ9747hjmdfur894hgiophPY3756J8548567UHUY6Ii8v&$$#kngi84ygfrthihg746gniorthj9rtuh

Tweet

Redstone Winter - Colorado Landscape Photography

The winter wind is sharp today but the sun is bright as I walk down the dusty dry dirt road. It is unusual to be so dry in January. The warm sun is welcome none the less and takes the sting out of the cold air. The white bare trunks of the cottonwood trees catch my attention as they stand out prominently against the red sandstone cliff that gives this valley its name, Redstone Canyon. My home.

Redstone Winter
The valley of Redstone Canyon is named for the beautiful red sandstone cliffs found there. A winter stand of cottonwood trees with their white bark showing prominently provides a contrast against the sandstone cliff.
click here for purchase information on this 11x14 photograph

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Aspen Light in Black and White

You might recognize this photograph. It is not entirely new to my portfolio. What is new is the presentation. I was recently requested to change a couple of my most popular color photographs to black and white. And to make things even more interesting this person wanted squares. I love a challenge so I said I would play around and see what happened. The original photograph is here too so that you can compare. Tell me what you think.

Thank you Mark in southern California for being my muse!

Aspen Light BW
My Colorado photography studio is featuring a black and white photo of an aspen tree filled meadow with their white bark dappled in light.
click here for purchase information on this photograph

Aspen Light

Here is the original color and crop of the fine art photograph, Aspen Light.
click here for purchase information on this photograph

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Mountain Majesty in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado

The sky was a beautiful blue with white puffy clouds when we headed down the mountain. The view was snow capped mountain tops as far as you could see. The air, even though summer, had a raw bite that reminded you with each step that you were at the mercy of a landscape that had no mercy or pity for your human frailty. It is a feeling of smallness and at the same time a feeling of being connected to all the wonder about you.

A storm front approached and it was time to leave lest we be reminded again of our short comings. I looked up just in time to see the approaching clouds create an angle that matched the mountains perfectly creating a zig zag window in the vista. Do you see it? Then in an instant the clouds obscured the amazing view and we retreated to safety below. I hope you enjoyed this little diversion and my newest black and white photography.

Click here to see more of my black and white photography .

Mountain Majesty
The rugged Rocky Mountains of Colorado rise up to touch the storm clouds creating interesting matching angles. View from Mount Evans, Colorado
click here for purchase information on this photograph

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Blustery Day - Colorado Rocky Mountains

It was a blustery day in the northern Colorado Rockies. This view from our deck, looking southeast, is often the direction we see weather coming and at times it can be dramatic. A small snow squall was heading toward our home quite quickly and I ran outside to shoot some photos before the sunny blue sky was covered by the cloud of swirling snow. The wind likes to follow the contours of the land and the first icy finger of the small storm raced up the ravine next to our home. I admit it. I love watching weather!

Blustery Day
A snow squall blows through a pine forest under a blue winter sky in northern Colorado.
click here for more information on this photo

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Mountain Valley View - Colorado Rocky Mountains

It is the first snowfall. It arrived late this year and followed a sunny summery autumn. So imagine the shockingly cold surprise and sparkling white beauty of this season's first snow. As I breathed in the prickly fine air the world about me seemed new. The sun was catching the fine crystals setting off brilliant sparks on each tree and bush. As I looked down our mountain valley to distant peaks all the shades of winter's blue were around me. My favorite color. I hope you enjoy it too.

Mountain Valley View
The distant hazy blue Rocky Mountains of Colorado are seen through a picture frame of snow clad pines.
click here for more information on this photo

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

2011 Wall Calendar - Landscapes of the West

My Colorado photography studio is featuring a 2011 wall calendar of my western landscape photography. I have chosen photographs from Northern Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park, Zion National Park, and Olympic National Park that follow the seasons of the year in beautiful glossy full color.

"2011 Wall Calendar - Landscapes of the West" is a limited printing of twenty and each calendar is signed. It makes a great gift for the outdoors enthusiast and the nature lovers in your family. Click on any of the following images or links to purchase your copies today!

This calendar was produced using recycled content paper and soy based inks to protect the environment.

2011 Wall Calendar - Landscapes of the West
click here for purchase information

2011 Wall Calendar - Back View
click here for purchase information

2011 Wall Calendar - Month Sample
click here for purchase information

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Copper Cascades, Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

There is something soothing about the sound of water trickling over rock. It is a natural background for deep thought and meditation. It has the power to transport and instantly relax. This wild mountain creek is the beginning of the Fall River in Rocky Mountain National Park. I can imagine by now, with the snow steadily falling outside, that it is frozen in an icy cold beauty. Its voice has been silenced, but I know that just as nature awakens in the spring its music will return.

Copper Cascades
Sun glistening rivulets of water cascade over a russet colored rock in coppery streams of color in a dynamic wild mountain river. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
click here for more information on this photo

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

October 2010 Free Desktop Wallpaper Calendar

October's calendar is Lake Agnes located in the Colorado State Forest near Cameron Pass. Although hard to see, this alpine lake has an island off to the right side of the photo which makes it unique among mountain lakes. The elevation of Lake Agnes is 10,663 feet and it is usually accessible only part of the year. This is a wonderful hike to take if you visit Colorado. It is a beautiful and remote trail, but accessible and easy to do if you are in reasonably good shape. And since it is in the Colorado State Forest you may also take your leashed dog, a bonus for dog lovers!

download your free desktop wallpaper calendar for October 2010 here

Easy Instructions
After clicking on the above link
you will be at my Flickr page. Simply click on
"Download the Original size of this photo."
The file will then download to your desktop!

Etsy JulieMagersSoulen

Colorado Horse Country

Summer afternoons in the Colorado Rocky Mountains are typically prone to thunderstorms as the heat from the plains rises and meets the cold mountain air. This afternoon was not different. I was on my way home and my neighbor's beautiful horses were out in the front pasture enjoying the sweet green grass of the high mountain valley. I could not resist their sweet innocence and elegant forms as a thunderstorm rumbled in the distance and I stopped to photograph them. The wind kicked up and tousled their manes. A little brown bird was perched on the back of the gray and white appaloosa hitching a free ride. I was taken in with the view and lost myself in the herd as another perfect Colorado Rocky Mountain day lazily unfolded.

Horse Country
Two appaloosa horses graze in a green mountain valley in northern Colorado under a storm threatening sky.
click here for more information on this photo

Shyness
A beautiful dun horse shyly turns her face as the wind blows her mane and the sky turns dark in the northern Colorado mountains. If you look closely you might be able to just make out the tiny brown bird on the gray appaloosa on the left.
click here for more information on this photo

Pretty Girl
A pretty dun horse stands at a fence looking for a treat in the northern Colorado Rocky Mountains under a stormy sky.
click here for more information on this photo

Etsy Buy Handmade JulieMagersSoulen

Golden Hillside

The day was cool and misty. It suited my temperament and put an extra lift in my step. The scent of pine enveloped me and stole my attention from everything else for a moment. Then, as I gazed down the hillside, a sprinkling of yellow flowers had seemingly appeared in the instant of my attention. I had to get close to the earth and take in their beauty in a gulp. The fog crept closer and the trees beyond the little mountain meadow started to disappear into the mist. I felt small sitting in the dirt with my mouse view. The world shifted and I was suddenly no one and everything all at once. Nature once again stole me away.

Spring Gold
A grassy hillside is sprinkled with late spring blooming yellow flowers and the majestic pines in the background are shrouded in a misty fog.
click here for more information on this photo

Etsy Buy Handmade JulieMagersSoulen