Derrick is a photographer from the Navajo Reservation (New Mexico), a member of the Navajo Nation tribe, and an electrical engineering student. He discovered his love for the outdoors and creativity at a young age, exploring the landscapes around his home and expressing himself through drawing. Living near the Four Corners, he captures the surrounding beauty and diverse landscapes. A recent highlight was capturing his dream shot of Shiprock surrounded by fog, a photo that won the Best of the Week at Nomadict.
Growing up on the Navajo Reservation, my passion for the outdoors started early. As a kid, I loved being outside, exploring the surroundings, and playing in the dirt. I was also into drawing—pencil sketches and doodles—and I think that creative outlet has translated into my photography today. Living near the Four Corners (where New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, and Utah meet) has allowed me to explore a range of stunning landscapes, from desert scenes to mountain vistas, and capturing those moments through my lens has become a way for me to share my art with the world. Each state is about a 1-2 hour drive; I like to let my imagination run wild as different ideas come to mind when I am out hiking around.
The photo that won Best of the Week was taken in Northwest New Mexico. We hardly get fog here, but when we do it usually goes away before the afternoon. I went out for sunrise on that particular day, only to realize I had forgotten my SD card. I was bummed but didn’t give up hope. Later that day, I returned to Shiprock with my wife – Luckily we live in the area. The fog had miraculously lingered until sunset and the view was surreal. We witnessed this beautiful sunset with lots of colors above the thick fog.
Using my drone was the only way to get that composition, as the fog obscured everything at ground level. When the opportunity came, I seized it. Living so close to this area I’ve always wondered how people got lucky capturing Shiprock with fog, so that was always a dream shot of mine. I had envisioned capturing Shiprock like it was floating in the sky and I am so glad I finally got the chance. The sunset or sunrise is what enjoy capturing the most and this time it was extra special with the high clouds above the fog at sunset.
Editing that photo was a thoughtful process. I usually start with the basics in Lightroom—tweaking exposure, white balance, highlights, and shadows—before moving to Photoshop for more detailed adjustments. My good friend John Weatherby (@whereisweatherby) developed a plug-in for Photoshop called The Pro Panel. This has been a game-changer for me. It speeds up my editing process and is easy to use. I do recommend it if you have not tried or heard it before.
Learning to be patient and keep practicing has affected my editing process and results positively. I take my time editing and do not rush the process. There are days when I am excited to edit and can’t wait to get home but also moments when I delay editing for a few days; I want to find that balance between school work and photo work.
For beginner photographers, my advice is simple: keep shooting and experimenting. Even after five years, I still consider myself a beginner in many ways. I remember hearing the phrase “keep shooting” when I first started, and it’s proven to be true. For me, it’s been a constant process of shooting, learning, and creating for myself. Whether photography is a career or a passion, if you love it and put in the work, you’ll find your path.
I am fortunate to have worked with tourism departments, galleries, and a school. Just recently in my hometown, a local school used four of my photos to decorate a meditation room for the students. It covers the walls from top to bottom. It is rewarding to know that the students can look at my photos in that room and relax from their studies. This is one of the most meaningful projects that I worked on recently. Slowly but surely, I’m getting my name out there, and I hope to take on more projects like this in the future.
As for where I see myself in ten years, I’m currently studying electrical engineering with just under two years left until I earn my bachelor’s degree – I will yet see what happens after, but it would be awesome to become a full-time photographer or even work for Sony Alpha someday. Regardless of where life takes me, I’ll continue shooting and sharing my Art with the world.
As a member of the Navajo Nation tribe, I am so stoked to represent my tribe out of a small town in New Mexico. Thank you for this opportunity and for taking the time to read this. Ahe’hee’ (Thank you).
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