PAUL DRAKE PHOTOGRAPHY

PAUL DRAKE PHOTOGRAPHY

Hi, I'm Paul!

My path in photography can be said is unique at best. At a young age, my first camera was the One Step Polaroid, terrorizing anyone or anything that would stand still for those small black and white photographs. Does anyone remember the “goop” you had to put on the photo to preserve it? As I progressed into film cameras, then digital, my expertise grew. Being introduced to award winning photographer Tim Shields and the Photography Academy Masterclass, provided the inspiration to become a Fine Art Landscape Photographer to develop my skills even further.

The Southwest United States has always been a source of inspiration for me, deeply influencing my work, allowing me to capture the vibrant and diverse landscapes of this remarkable region. My portfolio reflects this passion, celebrating the stunning vistas of the American Southwest and the intricate, natural designs that surround us.

A bit of family history, creativity runs in my family. I’m proud to be the grandson of Disney artist George Drake, who worked closely with Walt Disney in 1929 to help shape the Disney Studios, and the cousin of Linda S. Gunn, a celebrated artist and illustrator. This rich artistic heritage has profoundly shaped my perspective and approach to photography.

I invite you to explore my award-winning fine art landscape photography. I attempt to make every image a story waiting to be told, a window into the breathtaking beauty of the Southwest. I’m thrilled to share this journey with a growing community of art lovers and collectors who connect with my work. I hope my photographs inspire you as much as this incredible region inspires me.

My Photo Gallery

The American Southwest

The Magnificent Beauty of California and the Pacific Ocean

Capturing Unique Perspectives

My Favorite Photography Locations

Grand Canyon National Park

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon offers remarkable views throughout the year. Whether during sunrise, sunset, spring, summer, fall, winter, or one of the afternoon Arizona monsoon storms, it provides opportunities to capture fine art landscape photographs that will be treasured.


If you have never visited the Grand Canyon, regarded as one of the seven wonders of the world, it provides photographers with convenient access to numerous trails and viewpoints for capturing impressive photographs.

Additionally, consider the North Rim of the Canyon. Access is restricted to the summer months due to winter weather conditions, but it offers a tranquil photography experience with minimal tourist interruptions.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley is renowned for its magnificent scenery and the profound legacy of Native American culture. It stands as one of the most striking locations in Fine Art Landscape Photography.

A photographer can spend hours in the Monument exploring all the trails to find the right spot for that spectacular photograph.

For those seeing Monument Valley for the first time, not only provides a spiritual experience, but also a promise you will recognize many movie locations from the early westerns to the famous Forrest Gump highway

Colorado/Rocky Mountains

The expansive Rocky Mountains, historic mining sites, and the rich history of the Wild West, make Colorado a premier destination for
photography. Whether you're inspired by John Denver's classic song "Rocky Mountain High" or the breathtaking landscapes of the region, you'll find ample inspiration for your photography here.

Southern California

Southern California boasts stunning sandy beaches, perfect
weather, and the majestic Pacific Ocean. The region is also famous for its breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. Year-round, Southern California provides endless opportunities for awe-inspiring landscape
photography.

Utah Canyonlands

Utah Canyonlands offer an extraordinary glimpse into the
Southwest's grandeur! Explore the breathtaking vistas of Dead Horse Point, marvel at the stunning rock formations of Arches National Monument, experience the might of the Colorado River, wander through the mystical Valley of the
Gods, and be enchanted by the picturesque Castle Valley..

What Photography Means To Me


Photography has significantly influenced my life

My long journey throughout my careers allowed me to travel extensively throughout the Southern and Southwest United States, and my passion for photography steadily increased.

Upon establishing my residence in Arizona, I recognized the Southwest's landscape as exceptionally unique. The intricate and distinctive patterns found in nature here beautifully epitomize the essence of Fine Art Landscape Photography.

My Favorite Photo

This photograph stands out as my favorite in my portfolio,
having garnered numerous photography awards.

Captured spontaneously under ideal conditions, it perfectly exemplifies the unpredictability of achieving the optimal composition. Whenever I experience a creative block, revisiting this image reminds me of the essence of being a Fine Art Landscape Photographer—producing fine art that can be appreciated by everyone.

My Cameras

As my photography skills advanced from using standard film cameras, I was fortunate to have the support of my wife, who facilitated the development of my passion by allocating a relative’s inheritance towards the purchase of my first professional camera equipment. I acquired a Nikon D90, which included several lenses, tripods, and filters. My decision to choose Nikon was influenced by my familiarity with the format from my experience using
a Nikon film camera in one of my professions.

The D90 played a significant role in expanding my portfolio. However, it was not until I participated in Tim Shield’s first Photography Academy Masterclass that I recognized the need to enhance my equipment further. During the live one-on-one editing sessions, it became apparent that an upgrade was necessary, leading to the acquisition of the Nikon D750. At that time, mirrorless options were not widely available. Additionally, I purchased the Nikon CoolPix, which supports raw format. The CoolPix is utilized for setting up compositions in my photographs and provides flexibility when larger cameras
face limitations.

Contact Me

View my extensive portfolio for purchase on these social media sites

© Copyright 2025. All Right are Reserved.