My Thoughts, Ramblings and Ideas

Welcome to the journal — not quite a blog, not quite a notebook. Just a quiet space where I can put words to the images I create and share stories from the road. Sometimes it's a reflection, sometimes a glimpse behind the scenes, and sometimes it's just the thoughts that surface after a long hike, a quiet camp, or time spent off the beaten path.
Think of it as a place to wander — through landscapes, ideas, and whatever else the journey stirs up.

Hokkaido: Act III, The Christmas Tree
Japan Andrew Hertel Japan Andrew Hertel

Hokkaido: Act III, The Christmas Tree

A breathtaking moment in Hokkaido, Japan, featuring the iconic "Christmas Tree" under dramatic winter skies. This image from my series Hokkaido: A Tale of Light and Snow captures the fleeting magic of light, shadow, and snow, showcasing the quiet beauty of this serene landscape.

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Winter’s Quiet at Valley View
Fine Art Andrew Hertel Fine Art Andrew Hertel

Winter’s Quiet at Valley View

I caught Yosemite in a rare multi-day storm, transforming Valley View into a winter wonderland. Fresh snow draped the rocks and trees, with El Capitan rising majestically in the background. The stillness of the morning, broken only by the Merced River, was a reminder of why I return to these iconic places. Nature’s quiet moments are where I find my inspiration.

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Hokkaido: Act II
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Hokkaido: Act II

Embark on a visual journey through the snow-covered landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan, as captured by a passionate black and white photographer. Explore the enchanting beauty of winter scenes, where majestic trees stand against the backdrop of softly blanketed skies, inviting you to immerse yourself in the serene majesty of nature's canvas.

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Laguna Sentinels
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Laguna Sentinels

A rare winter storm brought a magical winter wonderland to San Diego’s local mountains, of course I had to take advantage of the conditions and had a snowy adventure day.

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