Chasing Light: Why I Wake Up at 4AM for the Perfect Shot

There’s a certain silence before sunrise that feels sacred. The world hasn’t yet started buzzing, the air is cooler, and the sky begins to stretch into soft colors that last only minutes. That’s why, as a travel and landscape photographer, I often find myself waking up in the dark — long before anyone else — to chase the light.

Some of the most meaningful images in my portfolio were captured during these early hours. From the snowy mountains of Iceland to the first pink glows over the canyons of Utah, these moments offer not just beauty, but emotion. And for me, that’s what photography is all about.

The Power of Golden Hour

In landscape photography, the best light comes when most people are still asleep. The "golden hour" — just after sunrise — wraps the world in warm tones, long shadows, and a softness that no midday light can recreate. During these moments, textures come alive and colors turn richer. The same scene photographed two hours later would be flatter, more ordinary.

Chasing light is about patience and timing. It’s about being ready when that fleeting moment happens — when fog rolls through a valley or when a single beam of sunlight hits a mountain ridge just right.

From Chef to Photographer: Following the Light

For more than 25 years, I worked as a chef. My creativity used to live on the plate. But over time, my passion for travel and photography began to take over. I needed time — and space — to explore.

I’ve now traveled with my camera through over 20 countries in Europe with an RV, explored 15+ U.S. National Parks, and more than 20 around the World fallen in love with landscapes from Iceland to the Philippines. But no matter where I go, the most magical shots almost always come when I’m up before the sun.

Behind the Shot: Iceland Sunrise

In Iceland’s remote highlands, I remember waking up at 4AM, hiking with my gear through snow-covered terrain by headlamp. The reward? A sunrise over the frosted peaks, filtered through icy mist, painting the slopes in amber and gold. I didn’t just photograph that moment — I lived it. And when someone buys that photo, they’re not just getting a pretty view. They’re getting that memory.

Why It’s Worth It

Travel photography isn’t just about seeing places — it’s about feeling them. Waking up before dawn, braving the cold, standing alone in the quiet — these are sacrifices that create images with soul. They’re what turn wall art into windows to another world.

That’s what I hope to share with every fine art print at Baxphotos. Whether it’s a monochrome image of the Great Salt Lake or an abstract drone photo of Factory Butte, each piece holds a moment I chased, waited for, and captured with care.

Final Thoughts

The next time you see a sunrise photo, remember: someone stood in the dark to bring you that light. I’ll keep setting my alarm for 4AM — because in those early hours, the world still feels untouched. And in that light, photography becomes something more than art.

Why I choose travel photography

There was a time when Travel photography became more than just a hobby. Now it's a passion that has enriched my life in countless ways. As I stand at the intersection of exploration and creativity, I find myself reflecting on the profound reasons why I've chosen this path.

1. The Art of Storytelling:

Travel photography allows me to become a visual storyteller. Each frame I capture is a page in a storybook filled with the adventures, cultures, and emotions I encounter on my journeys. Through my lens, I convey the narratives of the places I visit, the people I meet, and the moments I witness. These stories are not confined to words; they transcend language barriers, allowing me to connect with a global audience.

2. A Journey of Self-Discovery:

Traveling with a camera has led me to explore not only the world but also myself. It's a journey of self-discovery where I learn about my strengths and limitations, my fears and aspirations. With every click of the shutter, I uncover a deeper layer of my identity and perspective. Through photography, I've discovered my unique way of seeing the world, my voice in the visual medium.

3. The Universal Language of Photography:

Photography is a universal language that transcends words. It speaks to the soul, evoking emotions and sparking curiosity. When I share my travel photographs, I connect with people from diverse backgrounds who may not share my native tongue but can appreciate the beauty and humanity captured in my images. It's a medium that fosters cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

4. Cherishing the Beauty of the World:

Travel photography allows me to treasure the remarkable beauty of our planet. Whether it's a pristine mountain range, a bustling market in Marrakech, or the serene smile of a child in a remote village, I have the privilege of preserving these moments in time. Through my photographs, I pay homage to the Earth's natural wonders and the rich tapestry of human existence.

5. Embracing Spontaneity:

In travel photography, spontaneity reigns supreme. I've learned to embrace the unexpected, to wander down unfamiliar alleys, and to be present in the moment. The unpredictability of travel keeps me on my toes, ready to capture fleeting expressions, changing light, or serendipitous encounters. It's an art of living in the now.

6. Cultural Immersion:

Through my lens, I immerse myself in the cultures I encounter. I've had the privilege of participating in traditional ceremonies, sharing meals with locals, and witnessing age-old traditions. Photography has granted me access to worlds I might otherwise never have known, fostering a profound respect for the diversity of human experience.

7. Capturing Timeless Memories:

Travel photography is the art of capturing timeless memories. Each photograph is a time capsule, preserving not only the visual but also the emotional essence of a moment. As I look back on my images, I'm transported back in time, reliving the joy, wonder, and awe I felt when I pressed the shutter.

8. Advocating for Change:

Photographs have the power to drive change. In my travels, I've documented environmental degradation, social injustices, and the resilience of communities facing adversity. Through photography, I can raise awareness, inspire action, and contribute to positive change in the world.

9. Connecting with Nature:

Nature is one of my greatest muses. Whether I'm chasing sunsets, trekking through forests, or observing wildlife, photography deepens my connection with the natural world. It's a reminder of our responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for future generations.

10. Leaving a Legacy:

As a travel photographer, I aspire to leave a legacy. I want my images to endure, to be passed down through generations, and to inspire others to explore, appreciate, and protect the world around them. Through my work, I hope to instill a sense of wonder and curiosity in those who view my photographs.

I choose travel photography not just as a hobby or a career but as a way of life. It's a means of expression, a journey of self-discovery, and a way to connect with the world and its people. Through the art of storytelling, I share the beauty, diversity, and wonder of our planet while advocating for its preservation. Travel photography is not just about capturing images; it's about capturing the essence of life itself, one frame at a time.

My view

Photography has the unique ability to capture moments, freeze emotions, and convey stories through beautiful images. As a photographer, the desire to share my work with the world often goes beyond social media. It's about transforming the pictures into art, immortalizing landscapes, and adorning walls with fine art prints that evoke emotions and inspire people.

Photography, at its core, is an art form. It's not just about shooting; it's about capturing the essence of a moment, a place, or a feeling. Every click of the shutter is an opportunity to create a piece of art with creativity, vision, and passion, turning ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of fine art photography.

Landscape photography, in particular, is a genre that allows me to connect with nature in a profound way. When I'm venture into the wilderness or find the perfect viewpoint to capture a breathtaking landscape, it becomes a personal journey to enjoy. The vastness of nature, the play of light, the shadows and my mood in that moment contribute to the creation of stunning landscape pictures.