Capturing the Sierra’s Beauty and Tragedy Through the Lens of Joy Pan
Amateur photographer Joy Pan has captured the awe-inspiring beauty of the Sierra Nevada while also documenting the harsh realities of the region’s wildfire season on a recent family vacation trip to Sequoia National Park.. Her images highlight both the stunning natural scenery and the devastating impact of fires on the landscape.
Milky Way Over Sequoia National Park
In breathtaking images above, Joy showcases the Milky Way glowing above Sequoia National Park. Photos like these are often seen by individuals attending the Dark Sky Festival, in these shots Joy features towering Sequoia trees silhouetted against the sky, with the Milky Way appearing as a celestial river of light. A cabin, softly illuminated from within, adds a human touch without overpowering the natural scene.
Smoke Over the Valley
While on a family vacation, Joy captured smoke billowing from the Coffee Pot Fire, which has darkened the skies of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. The smoke not only impacts the parks but also pollutes the air in southern California, a stark reminder of the fragile balance between nature and disaster. Still Joy and her family found time to enjoy some of the unique features of the park and marvel at the enormous features Sequoia is well know for such as Moro rock and the Giant forest.
Burnt Tree and the Coffee Pot Fire
A haunting photograph features a burnt tree standing in silent vigil as the Coffee Pot Fire continues to spread. Once scorched by a previous blaze, this tree now witnesses the surrounding forests fall victim to the same fate.
Joy’s images offer a moving blend of beauty and sorrow, reminding us of the enduring power of nature and the threats it faces.
All photos and captions by Joy Pan.
