Jesse Vance

I am a parent, a partner, a scientist, adventurer, and explorer. I endeavor to observe the amazing beauty and magic that surrounds us in every moment and feel the energy that connects us to nature, to each other, and to all things.

As a scientist I see that connection in the carbon molecules that pass from the earth to the air and into the ocean; become part of the plants and animals (including us), fungi and then the sediment, returning to the Earth and start again…

While I have always been a naturalist and loved photography, I came into my practice late. I love how photography provides a way to bring others into your moment for a shared experience. Photography provides a way to share our connection and story, in all its emotions.

Summit to Sand represents connection to the mountains and the ocean as well as the journey all water takes along the way, from headwater streams to lakes, nourishing life along the way, seeding the clouds, raining back into rivers until ultimately meeting the sand and the spilling into the sea.

As an oceanographer and climate scientist by training, I strive to limit my carbon footprint and protect our vulnerable ecosystems for my daughter and generations to come. I hope my images invoke a sense of awe at the amazing beauty that surrounds in every moment.