Derek's Photologue

Video postcards from Sitka, Alaska

On May 23, waking up to Mount Edgecumbe emerging from the morning mist was amazing.

We spent the day hiking the totem trail in the Alaskan rainforest. We learned about the Native American and Russian history that influenced this area. Later, we climbed up to Baranof Castle Hill, where the 1867 Alaska Purchase happened. Being there with those mountain views made a strong impression.

We ended the day exploring and eating in downtown. It’s a small town, but it has a rich history and stunning scenery. Sitka surprised me.

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Sitka, Alaska - Fujifilm X-Pro 2

On May 23, Sitka, Alaska was a photographer’s dream. Every turn through Sitka National Historical Park’s rainforest along the totem trail offered something worth stopping for. The totem poles, the dense green canopy, and the soft light filtering through the trees created a perfect scene. It was the kind of place where you slow down and let the surroundings come to you.

Shooting the mountains along the city’s pier was different. The way the peaks framed the water made every shot feel easy.

We wrapped up the day downtown with Russian dumplings, and I finally put the camera down for a while. Sitka has a quiet beauty that I didn’t want to rush through.

Video Postcards from the Inside Passage and Ketchikan,Alaska

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Ketchikan,Alaska - Ricoh GRIII

On May 23, 2026, as we navigated through the Inside Passage, we made our first stop at the Alaskan city on our voyage. Known as the Salmon Capital of the World, I strolled along the Ketchikan Salmon Walk, a 1.5-mile loop that follows the Ketchikan Creek, where salmon swim upstream. During my walk, I climbed some stairs and ventured through the woods on the Married Man’s Trail before heading back down to check out Creek Street. About halfway through the trail, I paused at the Totem Heritage Center to admire the rich indigenous history of the totem poles. Afterward, I made my way back to Creek Street to catch a funicular ride up to Cape Fox Lodge, where I enjoyed a stunning view of the city and the cruises docked below.

May 21,2026: Leaving Seattle on the Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady’s 7-night maiden voyage to Alaska.

My first set of photos and videos taken on May 21 on a special day as we leave Seattle and set sail to Ketchikan, Sitka, Dawes Glacier, and Prince Rupert. I’ll be posting many photos and videos from the destinations this coming week.

Kauai through my lens.

Early mornings, long drives, sudden rain, and views that don’t feel real until you’re standing in front of them.

Which frame are you staying in?

My Top 20 Favorite Photos I Took in 2025!

This year took me on a journey from music festivals to iconic landmarks, from the Philippines to Paris and finally, a football game in California. I explored different photography techniques and gear, but my enthusiasm for capturing the world never wavered. Cheers to more adventures in 2026.

Bears vs 49ers showdown on December 28, 2025!

Ricoh GRIII (photos) and iPhone 15 Pro Max (Video) capturing all the action!

Baguio, Philippines - Ricoh GR III
July 14 to 16

Shots from July 13 around Tagaytay, Philippines, captured on the Ricoh GR III. I savored Filipino cuisine at Balay Dako, overlooking Taal Lake and the volcano, and then explored the gardens of Sonya’s Garden.