Reflections in Nature

A Collection of Calm and Wonder

Over the years, our cameras have captured many beautiful moments, but few are as universally captivating as reflections in nature. There's something undeniably magical about a serene landscape mirrored perfectly in still water. It's hard to put into words what makes these scenes so special.

Perhaps it's that we get to experience the beauty twice in one image — once in the world above and once again in the mirror below. Or maybe it's the tranquility of still water paired with a breathtaking view that makes us pause, breathe, and feel more grounded.

Whatever the reason, reflections have a way of pulling us in and holding our gaze. Today, we’re excited to share a few of our favorite reflection photographs — images that remind us of peaceful mornings, golden light, and the quiet awe of the natural world.

The Watchman at Zion National Park

"Watchman Sunset Reflection at Zion"

Zion National Park is home to towering cliffs and deep canyons, but few features are as iconic as the Watchman. Located at the southern end of the park, the Watchman catches the golden glow of the setting sun, bathing its western slope in deep reds and oranges.

On one particularly calm evening, I found the perfect stretch of stillness in the Virgin River. The timing was just right — the sun's final rays lit up the rock face, and the river offered a flawless mirror. It’s rare that nature aligns so precisely, but when it does, the result is unforgettable.

Cathedral Rock, Sedona, Arizona

"Water Mill Stream Reflections at Cathedral Rock"

Cathedral Rock is one of the most photographed landmarks in the American Southwest, and it’s easy to see why. On this day, we had been chasing storm clouds all afternoon. As we reached Red Rock Crossing near sunset, the thunderstorm that had swept through finally gave way to clear skies. Oak Creek had overflowed onto the picnic area, turning what is usually dry land into a glistening canvas of shallow water.

The sun broke through just in time to light up Cathedral Rock. The conditions gave me a rare chance to capture its dramatic form — not only in sharp detail, but reflected perfectly in the water’s surface. A fleeting moment, but one we won’t forget.

Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, Arizona

"Sunset Reflection at Whitewater Draw"

Whitewater Draw is a haven for overwintering Sandhill Cranes and one of our favorite spots to photograph wildlife. But on this visit, it was the landscape that stole the show.

Earlier in the day, I had noticed a solitary tree beautifully reflected in one of the shallow ponds. When we returned at sunset, the sky had transformed — rain and snow showers in the distance colored the clouds in shades of magenta, orange, and purple.

The pond’s still water mirrored the sky, the tree, and the surrounding landscape in a scene that felt almost surreal. Nature at its most dramatic and peaceful, all in one frame.

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

"Morning Reflection at Schwabacher’s Landing"

Schwabacher’s Landing offers one of the most stunning and accessible views of the Teton Range. Located on a flat stretch east of the mountains, this peaceful area is popular with anglers and photographers alike.

Teresa captured this scene just as the golden morning light lit up the peaks. The Snake River was calm, not a ripple in sight, allowing for a pristine reflection of the mountains. The grandeur of the Tetons, duplicated so perfectly in the water, made for one of the most peaceful and awe-inspiring scenes we've ever witnessed.

Bear Canyon Lake, Arizona

"Early Morning Light - Bear Canyon"

At 7,500 feet, Bear Canyon Lake in the Sitgreaves National Forest is a welcome retreat from the summer heat — and one of our favorite places to camp. This morning, we awoke to absolute stillness. Not a breeze stirred the pines.

As the first rays of sunlight crested the ridge, they illuminated the forest with warm golden tones. The water, undisturbed, became a flawless mirror for the surrounding trees. It’s a simple image — no mountains, no clouds — just trees, light, and stillness. Sometimes, simplicity is where the magic lies.

Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell, Utah

"Lake Powell Beauty from Lone Rock"

Lone Rock Beach holds a special place in our hearts. It’s one of the few places in the Glen Canyon Recreation Area where you can camp right at the water’s edge — a true rarity in the Southwest.

This image was taken before the recent drop in Lake Powell’s water level, when the shoreline still reflected the beauty of the surrounding rock formations. Teresa captured this peaceful moment in soft light, the stillness of the lake offering a perfect reflection of Lone Rock. We hope to see this scene again someday, when water levels return and nature once again finds its balance.

Reflections in Nature - A Window into Calm

Each of these images represents more than just a pretty scene. They’re moments of stillness in a busy world. They remind us to pause, breathe, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us — not just once, but twice, through the magic of reflection.

Whether it's the fiery glow of the Watchman or the delicate pastels of a desert sunset, these reflections invite us to see the world from a slightly different perspective — a bit more peaceful, a bit more present.

We hope these images bring a sense of calm and wonder, just as they have for us.