Valley of Fire

The Valley of Fire in the southwestern United States, with its striking red rock formations, holds ancient stories etched in stone. I spent a day journeying through this desert landscape, where past and present converge under the bright Nevada sky.

The Valley of Fire, Nevada’s oldest state park, is known for its vivid red sandstone formations that seem to blaze under the desert sun. But beyond the stunning landscape, the park is also home to a rich history, preserved in the form of petroglyphs—ancient rock carvings created by indigenous peoples over 2,000 years ago. These petroglyphs offer a glimpse into the lives, beliefs, and art of the early inhabitants of the region, capturing everything from hunting scenes to spiritual symbols.

The arid, dry climate of the Valley of Fire has played a crucial role in preserving these petroglyphs, shielding them from the wear of time. Without much moisture or vegetation, the rocks have retained their carvings, allowing visitors to explore a unique connection to the past. But as temperatures rise and the environment changes, there is concern about how these ancient artworks will endure. Today, efforts are focused on conserving these cultural treasures, balancing the need to protect them with the desire to make them accessible for all to appreciate.

Behind-the-scenes

I shot these photos during a trip over the winter holidays, where I had the chance to spend time with my parents who I rarely see. All the photos were taken using my Samsung Galaxy, which brought its own set of challenges. Without the flexibility of a DSLR, I had to think creatively about how to frame each shot, making me appreciate the landscape from new angles. The highlights of the trip were the moments spent discovering petroglyphs—each telling a story that has withstood thousands of years—and, of course, the contentment of seeing them with my family.

Valley of Fire

Behind-the-scenes

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