Against the expansive canvas of the clear blue sky, a solitary elk stands atop a sunlit ridge, its silhouette a striking contrast to the golden hues of the rough terrain. The majestic creature, with antlers that reach towards the heavens, embodies the wild and free spirit of the natural world. This moment captures the delicate balance and raw beauty of wildlife in its element, where every day is a testament to the grandeur of life.

Art by Michael Underwood.

Michael Underwood is a nature photographer originally from North Carolina. He has traveled to all 50 states, and all too few countries. In 2010 Michael moved to the small mountain town of Lake City in the San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado, one of the most remote places in the lower 48 states. Two weeks later, he bought a professional camera and lenses. Surrounded by the beautiful landscapes and wildlife of his new home in southwestern Colorado, he developed a deep appreciation and respect for nature. He was able to mix new found loves of nature and photography to begin a career as a photographer.