How I’ve Seen Mother Nature

Hi there!

I’m Shaun. I’m 24 years old and currently live seasonally between Southern California and Midlothian, Texas.

Back in 2019, I took my first photography class at Mount SAC. No expectations. No history with photography. Just curious to learn something new.

It clicked.

The intentionality and folklore of creating an image instantly gripped my mind. Learning the foundational elements of photography on 35mm black & white film brought to life the beautiful, profound nature of creating an image. An equal balance of technicality with casual presence. From there, I’ve photographed anything from winter scenes in my hometown to supercells in tornado alley. 

Storm photography grew out of the fascinating dichotomy of Mother Nature. Back in 2022, I witnessed three tornadic supercells go right over my family’s home in Midlothian. Lightning, hail, tornado sirens; the whole nine yards. This was quite the shock coming from the calm seasonality of California. The world temporarily flipped upside down and felt almost apocalyptic. I was terrified. Humbled. And like a moth to a flame, completely fascinated! After going on some of my first chases, nothing can top the sensation of watching Mother Nature’s power. Witnessing breathtaking events that would otherwise go unnoticed. Being a tourist where no tourists go. 

This has become something more than just a passion, or a hobby. It’s something I can’t not do. I’ve oriented my entire life around this north star. And I am beyond excited for the seasons ahead.

I don’t want less badass stories to share around the firepit.

Random things! First, I’m a huge coffee enthusiast. And I can tell you, a gas station coffee on a chase day will always have a place in my heart. Alright, rapid fire:

Favorite Coffee - White Owl by James Coffee Co.

Music - Modern Color all day long

Cigars - Padrón

Everyday Carry - The James Brand “The Barnes”

Selvedge Denim - Brave Star, SoSo

Whisky - Bruichladdich

Movie - Denis Villenueve’s Dune Part 1 & 2

Podcast - Modern Wisdom with Chris Williamson

YouTuber - Matti Haapoja, Chris Baca

Random bit! I’ve actually seriously considered voice acting. Ask me to do my Stitch!

This is David. He likes long walks.

This was a severe flash flood in Amarillo, Texas. I stayed in a hotel just out of frame the night before. Pretty wild.