Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico.

As I revisit so many of the cultural sites that captivated me in my youth, I now seek a new connection. I explore these sites for the first time through the lens, through photojournalism, and certainly with a perspective I would not have had even a few years ago. On this recent trip through Southern New Mexico and Gila National Forest it was the volunteer rangers that left the strongest impression on me as Rachel and I explored the cliff dwellings. I chose to make this photo essay about them, using the site as an environment rather than the direct subject. The enthusiasm and knowledge of these two men was honest and sincere, as was their curiosity involving the subjects at hand. These gentlemen, these volunteers, are dedicated, passionate and obviously doing something they enjoy. I applaud that! That’s Jack with the cowboy hat. Enjoy the photos…Jeremy

Photographs © Jeremy Wade Shockley 2008. All Rights Reserved.