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Four Reasons to Photograph Grand Teton National Park
Four Reasons to Photograph Grand Teton National Park
by Keenan Hursh
When it comes to stunning images of the Rocky Mountains and the many wildlife species that call them home, I struggle to think of a more iconic and picturesque destination than Grand Teton National Park. The jagged, and abrupt peaks of the Teton range shoot out from the valley below, towering over the vast plains of Wyoming. These mountains have a noble and powerful presence about them and create one of the most recognizable skylines that I know of. Bottom line, this range holds a special place in my heart and the hearts of photographers far and wide, and for good reason.
I’ve visited the Tetons on well over 10-15 separate occasions, at this point, and this magical place never fails to provide new and exciting photo opportunities. From the Mountain landscapes to the hardy wildlife, Grand Teton National Park is one of my absolute favorite places in the entire world.
So, what makes this patch of land in northwestern Wyoming so perfect for photography? And why do I keep coming back for more? In today’s article, we’ll dive into 4 of the main reasons why Grand Teton National Park is one of the premiere photography destinations in the world. Let’s get into it.
I’ve visited the Tetons on well over 10-15 separate occasions, at this point, and this magical place never fails to provide new and exciting photo opportunities. From the Mountain landscapes to the hardy wildlife, Grand Teton National Park is one of my absolute favorite places in the entire world.
So, what makes this patch of land in northwestern Wyoming so perfect for photography? And why do I keep coming back for more? In today’s article, we’ll dive into 4 of the main reasons why Grand Teton National Park is one of the premiere photography destinations in the world. Let’s get into it.
Iconic Mountain Landscapes
This may come as no surprise, but the best place to start would have to be the mountains themselves. The Teton Range is the centerpiece of Grand Teton National Park. It is an imposing and powerful mountain range that stretches roughly 40 miles north to south and is comprised of several peaks over 12,000 feet high. The focal point, of course, is the Grand Teton. Sitting at 13,775 feet above sea level, this peak is famous in the alpinism and mountaineering world.
Not only are these mountains superb photography subjects themselves, but they create an incredible backdrop for any landscape or wildlife shot. The range consists of sharp peaks, steep ridges, and deep valleys, providing endless possibilities for composition. The Teton Range is also home to several glaciers, which add a unique texture to photographs. This iconic range stands out from the rest and if you’ve never been to the Tetons with your camera, I implore you to get out there as soon as possible! There are amazing photo opportunities year-round.
This may come as no surprise, but the best place to start would have to be the mountains themselves. The Teton Range is the centerpiece of Grand Teton National Park. It is an imposing and powerful mountain range that stretches roughly 40 miles north to south and is comprised of several peaks over 12,000 feet high. The focal point, of course, is the Grand Teton. Sitting at 13,775 feet above sea level, this peak is famous in the alpinism and mountaineering world.
Not only are these mountains superb photography subjects themselves, but they create an incredible backdrop for any landscape or wildlife shot. The range consists of sharp peaks, steep ridges, and deep valleys, providing endless possibilities for composition. The Teton Range is also home to several glaciers, which add a unique texture to photographs. This iconic range stands out from the rest and if you’ve never been to the Tetons with your camera, I implore you to get out there as soon as possible! There are amazing photo opportunities year-round.
Abundant Wildlife
So we’ve covered the elephant in the room. The mountains can be seen from anywhere in the park and are attractive from all angles. For photographers looking for more of a challenge, who are trying to photograph elusive subjects that may be few and far between, worry not. Grand Teton National Park is also known for its diverse wildlife. If you know where to look you can easily capture some awesome wildlife photographs throughout the park.
Grand Teton National Park is home to a variety of animals, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, bison, wolves, coyotes, marmots, and more. If you’d like to photograph the truly wild animals native to the Rocky Mountains in their natural habitat, then this is one of the best and most accessible places. Of course, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines and keep a respectful distance from the animals. If you are patient and persistent, you can capture some incredible photographs of the incredible wildlife species that call the Tetons home.
So we’ve covered the elephant in the room. The mountains can be seen from anywhere in the park and are attractive from all angles. For photographers looking for more of a challenge, who are trying to photograph elusive subjects that may be few and far between, worry not. Grand Teton National Park is also known for its diverse wildlife. If you know where to look you can easily capture some awesome wildlife photographs throughout the park.
Grand Teton National Park is home to a variety of animals, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, bison, wolves, coyotes, marmots, and more. If you’d like to photograph the truly wild animals native to the Rocky Mountains in their natural habitat, then this is one of the best and most accessible places. Of course, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines and keep a respectful distance from the animals. If you are patient and persistent, you can capture some incredible photographs of the incredible wildlife species that call the Tetons home.
Accessibility
Another primary factor that makes Grand Teton National Park an amazing place for photography is its accessibility. In my opinion, this is one of the best things about America’s national parks in general. With roads and well-maintained trails, our parks create an opportunity to experience the beauty of the natural world for people who otherwise might not be able to. Of course, there is fierce debate over this, and some purists think that our parks shouldn’t have roads at all, that this is too intrusive. Perhaps they have a point, but, in my opinion, the accessibility is a big win and opens up our national parks to pretty much everyone. Which is the whole reason they exist in the first place.
Grand Teton National Park is easily accessible by car with no shortage of pull-offs and parking lots featuring stunning views. In addition, the park has many well-marked and well-maintained trails that will guide you to pristine lakes, prominent overlooks, conifer forests, and alpine meadows. Whether you are an experienced photographer or just getting started, Grand Teton National Park has something for every photographer, and there's no shortage of great shooting locations that are relatively easy to get to.
Another primary factor that makes Grand Teton National Park an amazing place for photography is its accessibility. In my opinion, this is one of the best things about America’s national parks in general. With roads and well-maintained trails, our parks create an opportunity to experience the beauty of the natural world for people who otherwise might not be able to. Of course, there is fierce debate over this, and some purists think that our parks shouldn’t have roads at all, that this is too intrusive. Perhaps they have a point, but, in my opinion, the accessibility is a big win and opens up our national parks to pretty much everyone. Which is the whole reason they exist in the first place.
Grand Teton National Park is easily accessible by car with no shortage of pull-offs and parking lots featuring stunning views. In addition, the park has many well-marked and well-maintained trails that will guide you to pristine lakes, prominent overlooks, conifer forests, and alpine meadows. Whether you are an experienced photographer or just getting started, Grand Teton National Park has something for every photographer, and there's no shortage of great shooting locations that are relatively easy to get to.
Pristine Wilderness
Finally, Grand Teton National Park is an incredible place to disconnect from the routine and constraints of daily life and connect with nature. This is one of my favorite aspects of nature photography in general. It’s a great excuse to escape into the natural world and has proven to be incredibly therapeutic in my own life. When I get stuck in the hustle and bustle of "city life" I find it necessary to get away every now and then. And what better way to do this than to venture into protected, and untouched wildlife areas with a camera in your hand.
The peace and serenity of Grand Teton National Park provide the perfect setting for contemplation and creativity. The natural beauty of the park can inspire even the most uninspired photographer. So if you’re looking for a little reset, or if you want to fully embrace the joys of the natural world, the Tetons are the perfect place to do just that!
Finally, Grand Teton National Park is an incredible place to disconnect from the routine and constraints of daily life and connect with nature. This is one of my favorite aspects of nature photography in general. It’s a great excuse to escape into the natural world and has proven to be incredibly therapeutic in my own life. When I get stuck in the hustle and bustle of "city life" I find it necessary to get away every now and then. And what better way to do this than to venture into protected, and untouched wildlife areas with a camera in your hand.
The peace and serenity of Grand Teton National Park provide the perfect setting for contemplation and creativity. The natural beauty of the park can inspire even the most uninspired photographer. So if you’re looking for a little reset, or if you want to fully embrace the joys of the natural world, the Tetons are the perfect place to do just that!
Grand Teton National Park with BCJ
At Backcountry Journeys, we understand just how special of a place Grand Teton National Park really is, which is why we offer several trips throughout the year to this pocket of wilderness. One of the most popular trips we offer is our Grand Teton National Park photography tour which has a primary focus on landscape photography but ample opportunity to photograph wildlife as well. This trip runs in the fall and spring, and you’ll definitely want to check it out if you’re passionate about nature photography. A backcountry Journeys trip is a great way to improve your photography skills and explore a new location with your camera!
At Backcountry Journeys, we understand just how special of a place Grand Teton National Park really is, which is why we offer several trips throughout the year to this pocket of wilderness. One of the most popular trips we offer is our Grand Teton National Park photography tour which has a primary focus on landscape photography but ample opportunity to photograph wildlife as well. This trip runs in the fall and spring, and you’ll definitely want to check it out if you’re passionate about nature photography. A backcountry Journeys trip is a great way to improve your photography skills and explore a new location with your camera!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Grand Teton National Park is a photographer's paradise, offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, impressive and inclusive accessibility, and an opportunity to escape from our synthetic and constructed world. The park provides endless opportunities for photographers to capture nature's beauty in its purest form. If you’re passionate about nature photography and are looking for a new and exciting destination, Grand Teton National Park should be the next stop on your list.
In conclusion, Grand Teton National Park is a photographer's paradise, offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, impressive and inclusive accessibility, and an opportunity to escape from our synthetic and constructed world. The park provides endless opportunities for photographers to capture nature's beauty in its purest form. If you’re passionate about nature photography and are looking for a new and exciting destination, Grand Teton National Park should be the next stop on your list.
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AUTHOR
AUTHOR
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
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BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
- Russ Nordstrand, Backcountry Journeys Founder & Director
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All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLCs - Copyright 2024
BACKCOUNTRY JOURNEYS
"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
TRIP CATALOG
Download our Trip Catalog for detailed information on our many destinations for photography tours, workshops, and safaris.