UTAH

Through my travels, I've shot portraits all over the world. In my photos, I work to capture real moments and honest emotions. I search for subjects with unique facial features. Shot in both color and black and white, these images function as a window into understanding not only the subject, but ourselves.

Around over Woodruff, Utah, just north east of Salt Lake City. 26 mm f1.5, 7000 ft @ 120 knots from a Cessna 182T

77 mm f2.8, 7000 ft @ 100 knots from a Cessna 182T

Flying past Woodruff, Utah

On our way back from our AI Demo Day, we flew over Woodruff, Utah, just north east of Salt Lake City. Woodruff, a historic town in Rich County, Utah, offers a tranquil rural lifestyle amidst stunning natural beauty. Settled by Mormon pioneers in the late 1800s, it's surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including Bear Lake, known as the "Caribbean of the Rockies." The photo was taken by me in a Cessna 182T flying at 120 knots.

77 mm f2.8, 7000 ft @ 120 knots from a Cessna 182T

While Woodruff may not be widely recognized, it has some interesting facts and features:

Historic Settlement: Woodruff was settled in the late 1800s by Mormon pioneers. Like many towns in Utah, it has a rich history tied to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Beautiful Scenery: Rich County, where Woodruff is located, is known for its stunning natural beauty. The town is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including mountains, forests, and Bear Lake, which is often referred to as the "Caribbean of the Rockies" due to its vibrant blue waters.
Agriculture: Historically, Woodruff and the surrounding area have been focused on agriculture, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in the local economy.
Bear Lake Raspberry Days: Woodruff is part of the Bear Lake Valley, and each year in August, the nearby town of Garden City hosts the Bear Lake Raspberry Days festival. This event celebrates the region's raspberry harvest with parades, food, and various activities.
Outdoor Recreation: Rich County, including Woodruff, offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and camping are popular in the area, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Flying near the small town Woodruff, Utah, just north east of Salt Lake City. 26 mm f1.5, 7000 ft @ 120 knots from a Cessna 182T

Close to the Idaho Border: Woodruff is situated near the Idaho-Utah border, making it a gateway to exploring attractions in both states. Idaho's Bear Lake is just a short drive away, and it's known for its unique turquoise-colored waters and recreational opportunities.
Small-Town Charm: Like many small towns in rural Utah, Woodruff is known for its friendly and close-knit community. It embodies the charm of a traditional Western town with a strong sense of community spirit.
Rich County Fair: Rich County hosts an annual county fair, which often includes rodeo events, agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, and carnival rides. It's a popular local gathering and a chance for the community to come together.
Rich County Courthouse: The historic Rich County Courthouse, located in nearby Randolph, is an impressive structure and a symbol of the area's history. It's worth a visit if you're interested in architecture and local history.
Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, and a variety of bird species. Birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant in the region.

While Woodruff and Rich County may not be widely known, they offer a peaceful, rural lifestyle and access to the natural beauty of northern Utah and southern Idaho. If you enjoy outdoor activities and a slower pace of life, it's a place worth exploring.