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.

Two Days in Yosemite | Hiking to Yosemite Point
Adventure, Camping, Yosemite, Hiking Andrew Hertel Adventure, Camping, Yosemite, Hiking Andrew Hertel

Two Days in Yosemite | Hiking to Yosemite Point

In January, I took a quick solo trip to Yosemite to explore a few places I hadn’t seen before—including Yosemite Point. It was my first time hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail, and the views completely blew me away. I filmed parts of the experience and put together a short video that captures the quiet beauty of those two days.

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Tunnel View and the Unexpected Power of Connection
Andrew Hertel Andrew Hertel

Tunnel View and the Unexpected Power of Connection

Not every photograph turns out the way we envision, but sometimes, it doesn’t have to. On a recent trip to Yosemite, I captured an image that didn’t meet my expectations—until my wife saw it and shared how deeply it resonated with her. This experience made me reflect on the role of art and how its meaning often lies in the viewer’s connection rather than the artist’s original intent. Read more about how this simple Yosemite image took on unexpected significance.

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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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