I love coming to South Dakota in the winter. Besides being quiet and peaceful, the light is amazing. Recently, I had the chance to shoot up at Sylvan Lake, at the old Meeker Ranch near Custer, and at Bear Butte. The light was soft and cool, and the snow on the ground sparkled.

Sylvan LakeThe lake is completely frozen over in January, allowing one to walk out in the middle. This photograph is one of my favorite vantage points, near the shore at one end of the lake.

Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park

In the Shadow of the BearBear Butte, Sturgis SD

In the Shadow of Bear Butte

The Meeker Ranch, Custer SD

Meeker Ranch BarnThanks to Jon Crane for the tip

Barn at the Meeker Ranch

Tiny House on a HillMeeker Ranch, Custer SD

Outhouse

Spaghetti WesternMeeker Ranch, Custer SD

Spaghetti Western

CollectionMeeker Ranch, Custer SD

Collection