When I first picked up a camera nearly 20 years ago, I was drawn to people—their stories, emotions, and the memories they cherished. Photography was my way of preserving those fleeting moments, whether it was a milestone celebration or a simple, heartfelt expression. I loved the idea that my work would become a part of someone’s story.

Back then, if you’d told me I’d one day be waiting patiently for the perfect shot of a sunrise or a serene landscape, I might have laughed. I didn’t see myself as someone who could sit still for hours, waiting for the light to hit just right or for the wind to settle. Yet here I am today, carrying my camera everywhere I go, eager for the chance to capture the beauty of the natural world.

It didn’t happen overnight. Over the years, people would occasionally ask me, “Do you think you’ll ever photograph landscapes?” My answer was always the same: “Probably not.” I loved the energy and connection of working with people, and I couldn’t imagine trading that for the stillness of nature. But something shifted as time passed.

I began noticing the small details around me—a fiery sunset, the way light filters through the trees, the quiet beauty of a misty morning. Slowly, I found myself drawn to those moments. The challenge of waiting for just the right conditions felt less like a chore and more like an adventure. I discovered a new kind of joy in photography—one that required patience, observation, and a deep appreciation for the world around me.

Now, whether I’m out on a hike, driving through a scenic area, or simply enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, my camera is always with me. I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected, knowing that inspiration could strike at any moment. The transition from capturing people’s memories to exploring landscapes has been an exciting evolution in my career.

Photography has taught me so much over the past two decades, but the most valuable lesson might be this: our passions can grow and change in ways we never anticipate. I’ll always treasure the connections I’ve made through photographing people, but I’m equally excited about this new chapter of capturing the beauty of the natural world.

                                                                Bee Larios