Ocotillo Sunrise Silhouette {landscape}

Sunrise in the desert of Big Bend National Park with ocotillos in bloom in silhouette.

Pink Morning Sky {landscape}

A pink morning sky greets ocotillo, yucca and rock formations on the desert floor of Big Bend National Park.

First Light at Grapevine Hills {landscape}

First light kisses the balanced rock at Grapevine Hills in Big Bend National Park just before sunrise.

Sgt. Michael Quintero Honor Procession

Veteran's Day is about honoring our servicemen and women who defend our country, both living and dead.

I am so very blessed to have many veterans in my life. But this year, I cannot observe Veteran's Day without thinking about one soldier, in particular. In July, Staff Sergeant Michael Quintero succumbed to his battle with PTSD. 

I have only known Michael for a few years. I photographed his and Carla's wedding and photographed their family before he was deployed for a fifth and final time in 2013. Finally, I was asked to photograph his Honor Procession in July from Houston Hobby airport to Sealy.

But there's more to this story.

As moving as his funeral was, I was truly touched by the Texas Patriot Guard Riders, a group of veterans who volunteer to ride in honor of a fallen soldier. They and the Houston Police Department truly treated Michael like the hero he was.

So thank you to our veterans who served in defense of our liberties. And a special thank you to the Patriot Riders for your continued service to our fallen soldiers.

Sagebrush in Bloom at the Chisos {landscape}

Following rainfall from Hurricane Patricia, the desert comes alive with color as sagebrush and ocotillo bloom with the Chisos Mountains in the background.

Desert Hot Springs Light Painting {landscape}

This is a light painting of the old resort store and post office at the hot springs at Big Bend National Park.

Adrienne & Rodney {married}

I have had the huge honor of getting to know Rodney and Adrienne over the past few months as I photographed their engagement portraits, her bridal portraits and now wedding. You really caouldn't ask to meet two more geniune people.

Adrienne and Rodney were married in September at the Royalty Pecan Farm in Caldwell, Texas on a stunningly gorgeous summer afternoon. From beginning to end, their wedding was simply awesome and full of such joy.

Congratulations, Adrienne and Rodney! May your lives together be filled with happiness and beauty! Thank you for taking me in, treating me like one of the family and allowing me to capture your beautiful day!

See more photos from this wedding and order prints here: http://www.jamespharaon.com/cummingsweidemannwedding

Second shooter: Heather Robards of Fields of Heather Photography