Hi there! I’m Deirdre Denali and I’m happy you’re here.

I’d like to introduce you to who I am and the journey that has shaped my passion for photography, writing and the great outdoors.

From the moment I received my first camera, a humble plastic toy, coinciding with my early steps, I began on a lifelong connection with the art of photography. My initial encounters with film, particularly with my father's old Minolta around the age of 5, ignited a passion that has been a constant throughout my life. The unmistakable scent of a fresh roll of film remains etched in my memory.

Raised amidst the diverse landscapes of Northern Minnesota, Colorado's Front Range, and the picturesque San Juans of the Southwest, my upbringing was unconventional, emphasizing wilderness, wildlife, creativity, and self-expression. Exploring the woods and mountains became a source of profound connection with our planet.

Photography, writing, wildlife, and the rugged outdoors have always been my enduring passions, providing a sanctuary in challenging times. I am not only a skilled creative, but also an enthusiast of various mountain sports, holding credentials to lead trips and guide. With nearly three decades of wilderness experience, I am a confident outdoorswoman.

For many years, my family embraced a rural life in the San Juan Mountains, where hauling water to have running water and experiencing skies adorned with countless stars were everyday realities. Our property straddled mountain and desert biomes on the Colorado Plateau, significantly influencing my identity, work, and the narratives I choose to convey.

The rural life will always be a big part of me.

Conservation photographer Deirdre Denali Rosenberg on expedition in the San Juan Mountains

Exploring in one of my favorite study sites.

A young girl explores the rugged San Juan Mountains in the early 90's

As a kiddo I was able to explore and play and go wild and it is those experiences that created my passion for photography, animals and conservation. I was a weird kid that didn’t fit in with the world. But I fit in perfectly with forests and mountains and it was in these places that I found my true home and safe place. Wilderness. These rugged new homes were full of wonder and magic that compels and enchants me to this day.

Recent times have seen my family relocating to Southern Arizona, making the heart of the Sonoran Desert our new home. This extreme and demanding region, with its rugged terrain and varied landscapes, presents a stark contrast to our previous mountain abode. Yet, from the moment I set foot in the Sonoran Desert, it felt like a place I needed to be—a captivating chapter in my ongoing adventure.

Beyond my personal journey, I am deeply committed to the ethics of photography and storytelling. I firmly advocate that a captivating shot or harrowing tale is never worth compromising ethical behavior. Embracing the principles of Leave No Trace, I strive to promote these guidelines in a manner that is not only clear but also actionable, enjoyable, and easy to integrate into daily life.

I am a Nature First photographer and a member of NANPA.

I hope to spark a wild and passionate love for nature in others, so we can protect these fragile lives and places together. In my heart, I know that individuals can make a difference in the future.

Contact me: deirdre@deirdredenaliphotography.com

To support my work and conservation efforts please consider subscribing to my Patreon, which you can find right here. If Patreon isn’t your jam, consider shopping through my Amazon link. I make a small commission if you do!