Smoky Mountain Overland

07/10/2022

Are your dreams built for dying?

There’s always a reason not to do something. Work, health, economy, family — you name it. Fear, uncertainty, and good old life have a way of delaying dreams until it’s too late.

Around here, we have a saying that goes something like “faith over fear.” It means different things to different people, and in this case, I think it means doing meaningful things even when it’s hard.

Inspiring others to pursue their passions and their dreams today is one of the driving forces behind this page. I hope you’ll return the favor by grabbing life by the scruff and going for a ride.

PS. This concludes my first photo “series” since rebranding as myself. Over the last month, I’ve made 3 posts a week in hopes of keeping quality high and my grid cohesive. Check out the last 12 posts, let me know what you think, and buckle up for the next series!

04/10/2022

No amount of scrolling can make you feel those first breaths of fresh mountain air.

This whole photo sharing thing is great. I love to inspire others and be inspired myself. At the end of the day, though, it’s about taking that bucket list of saved locations (we all have one) and actually going.

Don’t let life pass by while you wish you could go amazing places (like the San Juan Mountains in Colorado). Go see them for yourself!

28/09/2022

Hurricane Ian approaches.

We’re praying for everyone in the potential path of danger, including good friends and family.

Meanwhile, we’re dreaming of better weather and mountains. I knew the ocean couldn’t be trusted!

26/09/2022

Everyone always asks about photos or reels, but I want to know what other kinds of content you prefer. Videos or blogs?

As a “professional” writer, I spend my life writing blogs for other people. When my day is done, I typically want to unwind with videos — I’m just burnt out on writing (which is a daggum shame because I love it).

What about you? Do you consume written content, long-form videos, podcasts, or a mixture of everything?

Let me know below!

23/09/2022

For those that have been following our journey, this scene will look familiar — the Jeep appearing diminutive amongst a grand landscape as it propels us to breathtaking vistas.

Since 2019, we’ve been traveling by Jeep (with a little van action here and there). From a JKU with manual everything to our current Gladiator, Jeeps have taken us to some awe-inspiring places.

Next week, that comes to an end (at least temporarily). While I have no doubt we’ll always be a Jeep family, the next chapter of our journey involves something bigger, badder, and better equipped for the next iteration of our travel setup.

Who’s ready for the big reveal?!

21/09/2022

Are you a vehicle enthusiast or passionate about photography?

For me, those interests often overlap. Sometimes, though, they compete. I’ll miss a shot because the Jeep isn’t in it or will fail to notice an opportunity because my work and my page have become known as Jeep-related.

That’s definitely something I want to change. I want to be a photographer that loves vehicles, not a vehicle enthusiast with a camera.

What about you? Do you try to flex your creative muscles outside of your niche, or are you happy honing your craft?

No wrong answers!

20/09/2022

19/09/2022

As the world slips into pumpkin spice and everything fright, I’m reminded of the crisp mornings at altitude in Colorado. Who else is looking forward to a reprieve from the heat and some moodier vibes?

16/09/2022

As a lightning storm loomed over the valley, Hanna and I scrambled from our rooftop tent to the cab of the Gladiator.

There is nothing comfortable about sleeping in a Jeep, and that’s exactly what we did. As morning came and the storm clouds began to rise above the mountains and depart to the East, we were rewarded with this incredible contrast of light and dark.

I’m not saying it was worth it, but I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

14/09/2022

Freedom is wind through the hair and a soft glow on the skin.

It’s been one week since shifting my approach to photography and social media. I didn’t change because I want more attention on Instagram (I think that ship has sailed for most of us). In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

I was tired of letting an algorithm coerce me into posting certain types of content, adhere to a meaningless schedule, crush my creativity, and justify work I wasn’t proud of.

Now, I’m only posting what I want, things that inspire me, and work I’m proud of. I hope you can see the difference!