Our National Parks Odyssey: Heading In A New Direction

By Andrew Slaton

Image © Andrew Slaton

A cloudless blue sky is excellent for many things, but not ideal for dramatic photography. That was the case all summer in Wyoming, though it did not bother me much.

Low-hanging scrub cedars dominate the immediate landscape, while time-worn rock surrounds me. We are parked in a sparsely occupied RV park near Lake Whitney in the Texas Hill Country. The weather is a comfortable 70 degrees, and I am sitting outside with my laptop, quietly smoking my pipe and writing this installment.

I always enjoy writing these reflections. They are often cathartic and allow me to process both the recent past and what lies ahead, bringing a sense of clarity and purpose.

Image © Andrew Slaton

The world feels less certain right now. It is November 3, 2020, Election Day. There is talk of chaos, the ongoing COVID pandemic, and widespread unrest. I will not get political here, but these circumstances have made me reflect on something deeper.

I have realized that I need to feel wild at times. I need to feel capable and strong, to experience fear and vulnerability, and to be fully alive.

This past summer, my goal was to spend as much time as possible backpacking in the mountains of Wyoming. In that sense, it was a success. I spent roughly 50 nights under the stars, carrying everything I needed and venturing deeper into some of the most beautiful wilderness areas I have ever experienced.

Image © Andrew Slaton

Back in March, when we left Florida, I told Ellen this would be my focus. I hoped she could join me, but her health challenges made that difficult, so I went alone. In the end, that solitude was exactly what I needed.

People often ask why I choose to endure the physical strain and risks of solo backpacking, carrying a heavy pack and giving up everyday comforts. For me, the answer lies in several key reasons.

Image © Andrew Slaton

First, it is the physical and mental challenge. As I get older, staying in shape requires more effort, and backpacking forces me to push myself. There is no easy way out when you are miles into the backcountry.

Second, it builds confidence. Facing difficult conditions alone reinforces my ability to adapt and endure. It is humbling, yet empowering.

Third, time in nature is essential for mental well-being. The benefits of being outdoors are no longer just anecdotal; they are supported by science. The impact on the human mind is profound.

Beyond that, solitude in nature offers perspective. While it is a privilege, it is one I deeply value. Still, balance is important. Too much isolation is not healthy either.

Image © Andrew Slaton

Each trip into the backcountry leaves me with a deep sense of gratitude. I am reminded of the strength I have been given and the opportunities before me. Experiences like this are rare, and I know I will carry them with me for the rest of my life.

While I may not have captured every image I envisioned, I came away with something more valuable: a deeper understanding of myself, new locations to explore, and a renewed sense of purpose.

My career is entering a new phase, shaped by experience and personal growth. While landscape photography alone may not sustain me financially, I remain committed to creating images in any form, whether weddings, portraits, commercial work, or editorial assignments.

Image © Andrew Slaton

This renewed passion has led Ellen and me to relaunch our wedding and portrait business after several years away from it. Commercial opportunities are also increasing, and I am eager to embrace this next chapter.

As I mentioned previously, we may be settling down slightly, but after years of life on the road, it does not feel like settling. It feels like taking the next step in an ongoing journey.

About Andrew Slaton

Andrew Slaton is an award-winning photographer who has completed assignments for more than 50 clients and specializes in lifestyle and outdoor photography.

He is a Red River Pro who produces limited-edition National Parks prints on archival Red River Papers using fade-resistant pigment inks.

Contact Information
Visit Andrew’s website to view his work, order prints, and learn about upcoming workshops.

Watch Andrew and Ellen’s videos on their blog.

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Your comments are welcome below.

Original Publication Date: November 19, 2020

Article Last updated: May 01, 2026

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