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Why I Leave the City Lights in Search of Starlight

Living in the city makes capturing stars a challenge.

By: Jake Stahnke + Save to a List

These cold, clear Pacific Northwest nights driving up to the dark Cascade Mountains turns into an adventure as I bundle up and prepare for a long evening capturing the best photos I can. The dark night sky lights up with stars the further I travel from the city, which inspires me to push myself further and further every time I go out for a shoot. I constantly aspire the grow and achieve more with every shot I take, pushing myself to my limits and beyond just for the photo. For me, it's a combination of the adventures I take and the photos that come from it. There are always new places I can explore in the Pacific Northwest, and my journeys are just beginning.


We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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