Meet photographer Mason Wynn, a first-year Architectural Design major whose artistic eye for detail and composition is apparent in this collection of photos. His show, “Beauty in the Mountains,” features snapshots from his adventures out to several different US National Parks. We invite you to join us on this visual journey that showcases the diverse range of natural landscapes that exist within our country’s borders.

The driving force that guided Mason to compile this specific collection of photos was his passion for nature. “These are some of the most beautiful places in the country,” he says, explaining that his mission was “to bring back tiny pieces of it.” He has most definitely succeeded in this venture, from his crisp mountain views to his rich textures and vibrant sunsets, giving us a rich sampling of the amazing sites that he has had the chance to visit. Most of the photos featured in Mason’s gallery were taken within the span of two years, during which he visited eight different national parks. These were summer trips taken with family, so, as Mason explains, “each one has a good memory with it.”

Something Mason loves about photography is the ability to capture and keep moments, so this collection gives him the ability to “[return] back there, in the moment, taking in the awe of what [he’s] looking at.” He also enjoys being able to craft his compositions, using framing and editing as tools to “go back and fix [the photo] up, and make it look as you saw it.” Mason has always had a slight interest in photography, but it was during these trips across the country that his passion deepened, and he began to hone his skills using a DSLR camera.

When people view this collection, Mason hopes that they will realize how much more there is to see out there.  He wants his viewers to see the amazing range of landscapes that exist in the US and hopefully be inspired to go visit themselves. Our national parks are truly majestic spaces that preserve all of the natural beauty and wonder of the world. From sandy dunes, to rocky cliffs, to snow-capped mountains and rich forests, there is so much to explore, and we hope Mason’s fantastic work has inspired you to get out there.

View the full collection here