California

A Year in Photographs 2023 — A Journey's End by Adrian Galli

A Year in Photographs

365 Days, 12 Themes, 1 Creative Journey

Museo Soumaya — Day 98

I started writing this entry with some grand idea that there was a lot to say, stories to tell, and great insight I learned. While I do have many stories, evolved creatively, pushed myself hard to achieve this tremendous goal, and want to share so much of my journey, I didn’t find that I could completely convey what #AYearinPhotographs has meant to me nor engage it all in just a few paragraphs.

Instead, I intend to keep this short because, perhaps, minimalism is a certain type of valor. A photograph every day for a year is an undertaking. One sets out, like every journey, with the first footstep and from there, the Universe leads one on. Simply put, it is a lot of work. Sometimes hours spent crafting one photo—it is easy, and it is hard. One is excited to do it and one will be tired.

Then it is all over and there is pride, sadness, love, and even bewilderment. And it is absolutely something that I recommend everyone should do—whether it be photography, writing, music, art, cooking, fitness, or whatever your passion may be. Do it. Journal it. Blog it. Share it.

It is a wave that washes over you and you’ll either ride it great distances or it will stay your feet, and you will be left behind. It is a commitment that if you hesitate for merely a day, you can never draw level. But when you reach the end of every day, every week, month, and the year, you have an accomplishment that only those who have traveled this path can truly appreciate.

Over 11,000 photos, 365 days, 12 themes, thousands of kilometers, two continents, four countries, and one singularly fantastic camera later, #AYearinPhotographs comes to close.

Here’s to the journey’s beginning, the path, the light, the shadow, and to the journey’s end.

Until next time.

A Year in Photographs 2023

 
Go out and shoot!
— Adrian’s Life Rule #56

 

Shot on FujiFilm X-T5

Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary by Adrian Galli

While on a trip to Joshua Tree with friends, we stumbled on a quaint desert horse rescue operation—Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary. Some of these stunning creatures were former race horses while some were wild but all found themselves sanctuary here from an otherwise untimely demise. All fortunate to receive love and support from kind and generous humans.

Reserving some time with them and this tranquil desert farm, the horse trotted over to us as soon as we arrived—no doubt the sound of snapping carrots into pieces caught their attention. Feeding them these carrots by hand, the gentle giants nibbled and crunched away on one of their favorite treats.

Just across from their pasture was a family of goats. Funny creatures, they too were excited to have the company. Their treat of preference, grapes, and they made it clear with chortles of excitement. The baby was the favorite of mostly everyone, of course, being only a few weeks old, but all entertained the masses with their own personality.

Should you find your travels take you to Joshua Tree or just passing through Twentynine Palms, California, take a moment to reserve and hour with these magnificent creatures—perhaps donate a few dollars to support them as gratitude for their company. Bring some carrots and grapes with you and you’ll have a herd of friends around your in this tranquil desert landscape.