Stephen Rauch’s 2025 Year in Review

In 2025, my travels carried me through an extraordinary range of landscapes, cultures, and wildlife. The year began in Polynesia and Melanesia, with unforgettable moments in Vanuatu photographing the Rom Dance, followed by the breathtaking spectacle of land diving on Pentecost Island and the timeless atmosphere of Fiji. In Australia, I explored the Blue Mountains and Bondi Beach—a beautiful place with a welcoming community, later shaken by tragedy.

New York City and Chicago offered a striking contrast, revealing daily life as people worked, played, and persevered among towering skyscrapers. Africa marked a major milestone as my first visit to the continent, where I captured wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and village life rich in culture.

Closer to home, I spent time in Washington, photographing the landscapes of Mount Rainier and Ocean Shores, and documenting the visible impacts of climate change at Alder Lake.

Along the way, I met incredible people, experienced diverse cultures, and deepened my understanding of the world we share. I’m grateful for the memorable meals, friendships, and connections—especially with those of you who follow my newsletter. Thank you, and I look forward to another year of exploration and photography in 2026.