Native Lands +

Arriving in Stanley, Idaho, I was met with an unexpected heavy layer of smoke that hung in the air, thickening the landscape and adding an eerie yet captivating ambiance. I had come seeking the stunning vistas of the Sawtooth Mountains, but instead found myself enveloped in a muted world of muted colors and hazy outlines.

As the sun began to set, the smoke transformed the sky into a canvas of deep oranges and rich purples, casting a stunning glow over the surrounding terrain. In that moment, the teepee stood out as the perfect subject against the dramatic backdrop. Its silhouette contrasted beautifully with the vibrant sky, creating a striking composition that I could not resist capturing.

The smoky sunset that evening was nothing short of amazing, reminding me that nature’s unexpected elements can lead to extraordinary moments in photography.