The Long Road Back — 8 Months of Healing, Travel & Starlight

Michael Simmons
Aug 5
3 min read

Updated: Aug 6

It’s been a while since I last wrote a blog post, and for good reason. The past eight months have been nothing short of a whirlwind—physically, emotionally, and creatively.

2024 tested me more than I expected. A series of failed surgical procedures made everyday movement a challenge, and that pain crept into every part of my life, including my ability to travel, hike, and even the motivation to shoot. Thankfully, in December, things took a turn for the better. The procedures were partially corrected, and with that healing came a flood of renewed energy and vision.

So, I hit the ground running.

Patagonia: Land of Stone and Sky

Kicking off 2025 with an epic expedition to Patagonia was exactly what I needed. There’s something soul cleansing about standing in front of Fitz Roy at sunrise, wind howling, stars still clinging to the sky, knowing you fought hard to be there. Patagonia reminded me why I fell in love with photography in the first place—because chasing light is about more than just images. It’s about resilience, wonder, and movement.

Capturing the Cosmos – Big Bend x2

This year also brought not one, but two incredible Capture the Cosmos workshops in Big Bend National Park. I had the privilege of leading fellow adventurers under some of the darkest skies in the lower 48—watching students take their first Milky Way images and hearing the gasps of awe never gets old.

A huge thank-you to Far Flung Outdoor Center for being a trusted partner in making these workshops not just possible, but unforgettable. We relaxed, we chased stars, and we captured the kind of moments that make the world feel a little more magical.

Ireland: My Favorite Island on Earth

In between the workshops, I took one of my most meaningful trips of the year a daddy-daughter adventure to Ireland. From the cliffs of Donegal to the wild coastlines near Fanad Head Lighthouse, we explored, laughed, and made memories that I’ll carry with me forever. There’s something about Ireland that feels like home. The landscapes, the people, the mood, it’s simply my favorite island in the world.

Utah, Washington & Oregon: Letting Go & Logging Miles

One of the most emotional moments this year was dropping my daughter off at Utah State University. If you’ve ever left your kid in a college dorm with a lump in your throat and a full tank of gas—you know what that drive away feels like. But I made the most of it. The road home turned into an unplanned journey through Washington and Oregon, where I found unexpected beauty, moody forests, and a few new favorite spots for future trips.

Australia Bound: Stars Down Under

And now, the passport’s packed again. I’m heading to Australia in 6 short days not just to explore and shoot under a new sky, but to link up with my good friend Jason Perry, a fellow photographer and veteran. I’m honored to be joining him as a guest instructor for workshops down under. The Southern Hemisphere skies are calling, and I couldn’t be more stoked to answer.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Workshops Now Live

As I look toward the future, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve got three new Capture the Cosmos workshops already on the books for 2026. And yes, spots are already filling fast.

If you’ve been thinking about joining me under the stars, now’s the time. These workshops aren’t just about taking photos—they’re about connection, learning, and stepping into the kind of places that make you feel alive.

WORKSHOPS

Thanks for being patient during the radio silence. If this past year has taught me anything, it’s that healing takes time—but once the wheels start rolling again, the road opens up in ways you never expected.

See you out there.

– Michael SimmonsDistant Light Photos