Jeff s the man! I first met Jeff a year ago ,I was working and he asked me about my weekend. I told him I just finished Mystery Canyon and he said he had been back there. I then started asking what other canyons he had completed in Zion. I then explained to him that I spent years teaching outdoor education and spend all my time climbing, camping, canyoneering, riding, or doing whatever it takes to the next adventure. He laughed a little... I asked what he did for work and what brought him to Vegas. He told me to check out his website. I did. I came back later that afternoon and talked to him about his Teton images. The rest is history, it was the beginning of a solid friendship through the things he captures- Nature.
Jeff's ability to capture these images are awesome, the world needs to see these places. His philosophy is simple and that is what I like about his images. We all know pictures are powerful, but I believe that what Jeff does is different. He is able to take nature and present in a form that everyone can learn from. One day these places won't be the same and images is all we will have to remember from.
In the end, his traditional approach and influence from Adams is apparent in his images, it is a good thing. The world needs to be reminded of places that he is capturing. Most people will never walk off the beaten path or step foot in the back country; it is scary to think about in my opinion. However, when Jeff releases images, it can plant a seed of thought, and that seed can lead to growth, and growth can lead to change. When you look at the early times with Adams he was capturing the things that were important to him and his legacy. Open spaces were sparred from development through Adam's work...Jeff honors that tradition.
As for me, I am inspired by his work, particularly the Teton images. I have spent years in the back country and teaching outdoor education; it is grounding to find someone who has the ability to reach the masses with one image. In the end, we all have a responsibility to create a positive impact for society; Jeff is doing this and will continue to do it. In my opinion, his images speak for themselves and each person can find a way to relate to it. It is so easy to complicate things in life, these images are a reminder that nature is where the greatest reflection can occur.
One day, I hope I can join him on one of his adventures or he can tag along with me on a climb, ride, or trip. See you on the summit Grand Teton Traverse 2014 3 peaks 1 day!
Dave