Southwestern Sojourn: A Photographer's Journal

By James Parker

An epic photographic journey through Colorado & Utah, then down the Green River, illustrated with over 100 images by the author.

Parker and his companion Jim Beasley brave hell and high water in a canoe for ten days in May. The two photographers manage to complete the journey, but not without mishap and adventure along the way. Parker documents the trip, from planning and preparation, to shooting locations and backpacking menus.

Prior to the canoe trip, Parker spent time exploring Ancient Puebloan ruins in Mesa Verde, Hovenweep, and along the Trail of the Ancients. Follow him as he photographs the fascinating masonry left by the Anasazi, stark desert landscapes and towering natural bridges. He meets Beasley in Moab midway through the adventure, and they pack a 17' Grumman canoe chock full of unnecessary paraphernalia. With an ambitious itinerary for hiking and photography, they set off from Mineral Basin on an adventurous mission. Ten days later, they emerge bedraggled from the river, none the worse for wear, but considerably wiser about the power of nature.