Shawn grew up playing in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains. Influenced by his father, he was inspired to explore the wilderness from a young age, which led to a deep appreciation for the land and wildlife.  He has spent untold hours immersed in nature, away from humans and exposed to the elements and the instincts of powerful animals. When the opportunity came to view brown bears up close in the early 2000s, Shawn didn’t hesitate to pack his bags. Thus began a journey sure to last for the rest of his life, of building a relationship among the brown bears of Alaska, himself, and everyone he guides in their presence.  Shawn's dedication to protecting Alaska's brown bears and their habitat is on display in his work as a  photographer and as co-author of Alaska Fish and Game’s McNeil River Bear ID Book. In addition, his 20+ year career as a city and wildland firefighter bring a unique perspective on the awe-inspiring power of nature.

The view on nature through Shawn’s lens is grounded in humble admiration and honesty. Since he was a young boy, Shawn's nature photography has told stories of peace, power and the imperative for conservation. As he watches others view bears for the first time, another story begins as he passes along the art of capturing that remarkable moment in time. Shawn believes he has grown to be a better human by being a witness to the beauty and authenticity of these magnificent creatures, and he aspires to share this experiential growth with others through his role as a guide, especially in the art of nature photography.

When the bears sleep, you will find Shawn doing the same in his hammock on his mountain property, or on whatever continent is hosting his next adventure. Otherwise, look up—he may be surfing the sky in his glider.