Stephen Rauch’s 2025 Year in Review
From land diving on Pentecost Island and timeless days in Fiji to wildlife encounters in Africa and quiet moments in the Pacific Northwest, 2025 was a year of discovery through photography. This post reflects on the places, people, and stories that shaped my journey across the globe.
Panpipes, Solomon Islands, Melanesia
While traveling through Polynesia and Melanesia, I had the rare opportunity to witness a traditional musical performance in the Solomon Islands. The deep resonance of slit-drums and the bright melodies of panpipes intertwined to create a mesmerizing soundscape. These photographs reflect the vibrant energy, rhythm, and cultural depth of this unforgettable experience.
Easter in Vanua Balavu: A Glimpse into the Heart of Fiji
Tucked away in Fiji’s remote Lau Group, Vanua Balavu is a mountainous volcanic island known for its dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. I had the privilege of visiting during Easter—a time that brought both spiritual depth and cultural richness to my experience. From attending a local church service to sharing meals with villagers and exploring the island’s schools and hospital, my time on Vanua Balavu offered a rare glimpse into a way of life deeply rooted in tradition, community, and natural beauty.
Exploring the Heart of Polynesia: Samoa and Tonga
In just a few short hours in each destination, I discovered two vastly different yet equally captivating corners of the South Pacific. Apia, the lively capital of Samoa, pulses with cultural heritage—its vibrant markets, colorful buses, and faith-filled spaces tell a story of tradition and community. Across the ocean in Tonga, the quiet charm of Neiafu in the Vava’u islands offers a slower rhythm, where wild gardens and warm smiles welcome you into a more untouched world. Through my lens, I’ve captured moments of everyday life and the deep-rooted traditions that define these beautiful islands.
Deserted Islands and Tropicbirds: Escape to Aitutaki, Cook Islands in Polynesia
Step into a world untouched by time—where turquoise lagoons meet deserted white-sand beaches, and vibrant seabirds soar overhead. On Aitutaki, one of the jewels of the Cook Islands, I found myself living a real-life Robinson Crusoe moment: alone on a pristine island, tracing the first footprints in the sand, following crabs along coral-strewn shores, and capturing the colors of paradise through my lens. Join me as I explore the beauty, stillness, and raw wonder of this South Pacific escape.