A little about me

I'm Cydnee

My story begins in Illinois, but my heart truly found its home in the wild beauty of Alaska. Every summer, the dense forests, majestic mountains, and the vibrant wildlife of the Last Frontier captivated me and planted the seeds of my love for the outdoors. These landscapes, so grand and untamed, became my playground and my sanctuary.

From a young age, I had a little digital camera that became my constant companion. With it, I’d venture outside, eager to capture the world as it moved and changed. Each click of the shutter was a way to hold onto the fleeting beauty around me, from the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees to the stillness of a quiet morning.

As I grew older, my passion for photography evolved, but the essence of that childlike wonder remained.

Rediscovering my early love for nature and photography has rekindled a deep, creative fire within me. It’s a joy to now share this journey with you, capturing the intricate dance of light and emotion that makes every moment unique. Through my lens, I aim to celebrate the natural world and the beautiful, fleeting moments that define our lives.

Exploring Nature

Nature has always been my sanctuary, my muse, and my greatest teacher. Growing up, I learned early on that the world is full of hidden wonders waiting to be discovered. Those vast, untamed landscapes—where mountains meet the sea and the sun barely sets—instilled in me a sense of awe and adventure that has shaped my life and my photography.

To me, nature is more than just a backdrop; it's a living, breathing presence in every photo I take. Whether I’m hiking through misty forests, chasing sunsets along the rugged coastline, or capturing the soft glow of dawn breaking over the mountains, I feel most alive when I’m immersed in the elements. It’s in these moments that I find inspiration, grounding, and a connection to something bigger than myself.

Photography allows me to share this deep relationship with the natural world, inviting you to feel the crisp mountain air, the warmth of the sun, or the calm of a quiet river through my lens. It’s not just about what we see; it’s about what we feel. And for me, every click of the shutter is a way of honoring the beauty that nature so generously offers.

Photography to Me

In my approach to photography, being present and intentional is at the heart of every shot. Whether I’m working with the deliberate rhythm of film or the immediate flexibility of digital, my focus remains on capturing the essence of the moment with mindfulness and care.

Film photography taught me the art of patience. Each frame is precious, requiring a thoughtful composition and an appreciation for the fleeting beauty of each moment. This process instilled in me a deep sense of presence, encouraging me to slow down and truly connect with my surroundings.

Digital photography, with its instant feedback and versatility, complements this intentionality. It allows me to respond quickly to the ever-changing light and scenes, but with the same mindful approach I learned from film.

The combination of both mediums helps me remain grounded and purposeful, ensuring that each image is crafted with the same level of attention and emotion.

By blending the timelessness of film with the immediacy of digital, I strive to capture not just images, but the genuine feelings and stories of the moments I encounter. It’s about being fully immersed in the experience and creating photographs that resonate with authenticity and depth.