A native of California, I began my photography career as an advertising photographer in San Diego. My first visit to Colorado came when one of my clients sent me to photograph high altitude farm machinery, using the San Juan Mountains as the backdrop. Luckily for me, the machinery I was to photograph broke down. I spent the next three days touring the San Juan Mountains.

I began this journey first by traveling over the Million Dollar Highway. Although there are differing thoughts as to why this stretch of U.S. Highway 550 is called the Million Dollar Highway, one reason for sure is the million dollar views. As I continued my journey through these mountains, I was in awe of so many majestic peaks, the endless fields of wildflowers, the crystal clear water and the abundance of wildlife.

I also found the southwestern region of Colorado to be full of history. Most of the towns located here are on the state's Registry of Historic Places and have wonderful museums. Visitors here will become very familiar with names such as; Kit Carson, Alferd Packer, Chief Ouray, Otto Mears and Bob Ford, the man who shot and killed Jesse James.

The railroad played a significant part in the early development of southwestern Colorado. One of the most unique trains meandered its way along the Animas River between the towns of Durango and Silverton. Still in existence today, the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad takes rail enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through the San Juan National Forest.

In my photography, I used three different camera formats to record the images on film, 35mm, medium format, and panoramic. The film of choice was Fuji Velvia.

Come and feel the magic of Southwestern Colorado!

Arthur Fox, Photographer