In January of 2026, the year started off journeying to New Mexico for a week of photographing migratory birds in Basque Del Apache and then heading south to capture the serine landscape of White Sands National Park. Not having much experience capturing birds in flight, I found myself learning tremendously from our lead photographer, Melissa, and the skilled birders who shared the journey with us. Our time at White Sands was truly special. We photographed in the early morning and again in the late afternoon through dusk, when the winter light was soft and warm. The gypsum sand dunes reflected shades of gold and gentle shadow, creating a quiet and peaceful landscape. It was a beautiful place to experience and one I will remember for a long time.