Welcome to the Shutter Blog, a collection of hiking guides, desert exploration stories, in-depth gear reviews, and ongoing film photography projects based in Phoenix and throughout the Southwest. This blog documents real trail experiences across Arizona, from sunrise summit hikes and Sonoran Desert routes to climbing areas and lesser-known day trips. You’ll also find hands-on reviews of cameras, lenses, and outdoor photography equipment, along with reflections on analogue film work and long-form creative projects. Whether you are searching for Arizona hiking recommendations, photography locations, trail guides, or practical gear insights, this archive is designed to help you explore with intention and document the landscape with confidence.
Each print is created from an original photograph taken on location. No AI-generated imagery is used in my work.
Arizona Photography Blog | Hiking, Gear Reviews, and Film Projects
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Offroading North of Lake Pleasant: French Creek to Table Mesa
Explore off road trails north of Lake Pleasant, Arizona including French Creek Road, Two Shoes Ranch Road, and Table Mesa. Route details, terrain notes, and 4x4 tips for desert offroading near Phoenix.
Behind the Scenes of Creating a Photography Zine | How I Made Small Growth
Here’s a look behind the curtain at how I created my photography zine, Small Growth. From printing small test images and rearranging layouts to letting the project sit for two years, this post walks through the real process of building a self-published photo zine.
The Magma Gardens: Desert Wandering and Rock Climbing Near Superior, Arizona
The Magma Gardens near Superior, Arizona are less of a hike and more of an invitation. Park beside the mine, wander the desert, climb volcanic rock, and explore at your own pace.
Upgrading to Negative Supply Film Holders for DSLR Scanning
I replaced my 3D printed film holders with a Negative Supply 35mm scanning setup for faster loading, better film flatness, and zero light leaks.
Hiking Weaver’s Needle in the Superstition Mountains
Hike Weaver’s Needle in the Superstition Mountains from Peralta Trailhead. Trail details, parking tips, winter conditions, dog-friendly notes, and photos.
Switching to the Nikon Z7II for DSLR Film Scanning
I replaced my Canon EOS M6 Mark II with a Nikon Z7II to handle both my professional photography and DSLR film scanning. The result? Higher resolution, cleaner scans, and a few setup challenges.
Boyce Thompson Arboretum | An Easy Arizona Day Trip from Phoenix
An easy Arizona day trip from Phoenix, Boyce Thompson Arboretum offers desert plants from around the world, seasonal fall color, and accessible walking trails. Here’s what to expect, when to go, and why it’s worth the drive to Superior.
Tom’s Thumb Trail Hike | McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale AZ
A steady desert climb through granite boulders and wide-open views, Tom’s Thumb Trail is one of the most rewarding hikes in the McDowell Mountains. This guide shares what the trail feels like, when to go, and why hikers keep coming back.
Finding the Light…Source (and 3D Printed Film Holders)
Starting my DSLR film scanning journey with a 3D printed holder and LED light pad, I learned a lot about light leaks, dust control, and alignment. Here’s what worked — and what didn’t.
Finding the Right Macro Lens for DSLR Film Scanning
I needed precision for camera scanning, so I chose the Nikon 55mm f/2.8 Micro-Nikkor. This post walks through the full setup, from adapters to rail—and why manual focus isn’t for the faint of heart.
Skip the Scanner: My DIY Copy Stand Setup
High-resolution lab scans are expensive — so I built a camera scanning setup at home. Here’s how I made a sturdy, modular copy stand using aluminum extrusions and a macro rail.
Welcome to Hollyridge Photo!
Meet the photographer behind Hollyridge Photography — a Phoenix-based landscape and film photography project rooted in the light, textures, and stillness of the Southwest.