ABOUT ME
Get to know how I started and where I’m going.
Partner, Dog & Cat Dad, Mountain Dweller, Student of Nature, Photographer.
Daniel Fogal
How I Started
My journey behind the lens started at 18 when I purchased my first camera in 2006. I had no grand ambition to be rich or famous; I just knew I enjoyed it. Over several years of reading books and viewing thousands of my terrible photos, I taught myself through trial and error. I kept in the dark, rarely looking at other photographers’ work or showing my personal work to others.
In 2013, I spent 2 months travelling west-central Mexico. Camera in tow, I lived and breathed the world around me, documenting my travel and experiences. My ambition soared; that was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. Shortly after returning, my dad died, and following that, the hard drives containing all my work crashed. The loss of the most supportive person in my life and 7 years' worth of images set off a downward spiral in which photography was nearly forgotten.
What I’ve Learned
Life is discovery, and time waits for no one.
Over the next several years, with the support of friends and family, I slowly reintroduced myself to the camera. I learned new skills, went on adventures in the mountains, and, most importantly, began to share my work with others. Through this process, I rediscovered my passion, and the fire was rekindled.
At 30, I got a dog, Loki. The mini Australian Shepherd who turned my life upside down —in all the right ways. Shortly after, I started dating my long-time friend, Kira. She brought my happiness forward, into perspective, and into everyday life.
I learned how to see the world differently. To get out from behind the camera and spend some time in front of the lens.
Where I’m Going
I’m lucky enough to call the mountains Home. I won’t be moving anywhere anytime soon! Living here allows me to pursue photography in a way I had only dreamed of before. Nature is quite literally on my doorstep.
Recently, I’ve discovered a passion for adventure photography by creating images of rafting and mountain biking for local organizations. The blend of risk/reward, landscape photography, and a personal understanding of the subjects is a perfect match.
This year, 2026, I hung my fine art photography on the walls of the local cafe, a first for me. And… I’ve sold one!
An online print shop is coming in late 2026.
I plan to spend more time learning about myself, making friends, being in nature, and soaking up all that life has to offer. There is so much to explore, and just a finite amount of time.