A Photographer’s Journey to the Grand Canyon

Visiting the Grand Canyon was always on my photography bucket list. Many say its silence and size are simply overwhelming. We started our journey with a flight from Toronto to Phoenix. Then, we drove for four hours. It felt like stepping into a familiar but surreal desert dream. The landscape reminded me of Iran’s dry, sunlit roads. But there was one difference: tall cactuses stood like lonely guardians of lost tales.

But two hours in, the desert transformed. The earth blushed. Deep reds and burnt oranges blanket the land. This stunning view lies between Phoenix and Grand Canyon National Park.

After checking in, we visited the park at sunset. We didn’t shoot yet; we wanted to see the terrain, light, and shadows. The next day, we set off to hike a large portion of the 17-mile trail, walking 8 to 10 miles through time itself. Geological markers on the path showed the age of the rock formations. Millions of years are pressed into each cliff and crevice. It felt like documenting history with every click of the shutter.

Day three began before dawn. I set out early to capture the Grand Canyon at sunrise. The light was golden and slow, gently stretching over the canyon rim. Around me, people sat quietly, taking in the moment. This stillness feels grounding. It connects you to nature's raw rhythm.

Our third day led us underground to the Antelope Canyons. This was unlike anything I had seen or photographed before. Narrow passageways shaped by water are lit by beams of light coming through cracks above. Our guide, a proud First Nation storyteller, shared the sacred meaning of this land. His presence—quiet yet full of history—added depth to every frame I took.

One of the most stunning sights at the Grand Canyon was trees growing right from the rocky cliffs. You'd never expect life to thrive there. These strong trees seemed to defy gravity. They found roots in the harshest cracks. It shows nature's strength. Even in tough times, beauty grows and makes an impact.