Why this site exists...
This quiet corner of the internet is where I gather fragments of time—moments framed not for clients, but for the sheer love of noticing. These images are pieces of light and texture that called to me, each captured without rush or agenda, and now brought together in one simple place.
There was a time when I was immersed in the business of photography—juggling no fewer than seven websites, a Overlook-Hotel-like maze of social media accounts, and the steady rhythm of sessions, edits, and deadlines. I photographed hundreds of weddings, documented families, created polished headshots, and built visual memories for over 50 middle schools and high schools across Southern California. It was meaningful work, but also consuming.
Today, I live among the forests and mist of the Pacific Northwest, where my camera is no longer a tool for business, but a companion for quiet observation and soul capturing. I photograph when something moves me—a shift in light, the curve of a trail, a moment of stillness. No more hustle, just presence.
This space isn’t about what I’ve done, but what I continue to see. You won’t find posed portraits or commercial projects here. Instead, you’ll find texture, solitude, subtlety—images that reflect a slower pace and a deeper noticing.
Thank you for visiting. I hope you find something here that makes you pause, even for a moment.
"Radio Dispatch, do you know who this is? No, who is this is?"
When it comes to music...
Music has been a lifelong passion and driving force in my life. From my earliest memories, melodies have been a constant companion—an internal soundtrack that plays no matter where I am or what I’m doing. That journey began in the early 1970s while living in Spain, when my parents gave me my first Beatles record—a double LP of Rock & Roll that still holds a special place in my vinyl collection.
My early influences included the foundational sounds of Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, John Lee Hooker, Neil Diamond, and Little Richard. By the late '70s, I gravitated toward the intensity of Metal and Hard Rock. Around the same time, my mother introduced me to Blues and Jazz, expanding my appreciation for complex rhythms and soulful storytelling. High school brought Punk and Post-Punk into the mix—and marked the beginning of my lifelong love of live music. I've since attended thousands of shows across decades and genres.
My musical identity is rooted in the energy of Metal, Punk, and Hard Rock, but my tastes are eclectic. Our home vinyl collection spans nearly every genre—minus a few of today’s more radio-friendly offerings that just don’t speak to me.
Over the years, I’ve developed deep connections with a number of artists and bands—Clutch, Rancid, Minutemen, Firehose, High on Fire, Failure, Murder City Devils, Fear, Motörhead, Fugazi, Hank III, and many more. But no band has resonated with me as profoundly as Murder By Death. My partner Melodi and I began seeing them in 2004, and while she was instantly hooked, it took me a few shows to realize I was all in. Today, I proudly consider myself a dedicated Murder-by-Deathian—and their music remains a central part of my life as you read this. And thanks, by the way, if you made it this far - most only take in a few sentences and move on. Let me know if you reached it this far in to the 7th layer.
I'm not much for the Pop World... Gimme Rock-n-Roll!
Wildlife Photography...
Wildlife photography is a newer and exciting creative outlet for me—and I’m absolutely loving the journey. While I’m still building my chops in this world, I currently shoot with a 70–200mm f/2.8 lens and occasionally rent a 500mm f/4.0 to get closer to the action. Every outing brings new experiences and an even deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Birds—especially birds of prey—have quickly become my favorite subjects. I’ve been fortunate to photograph several types of owls, hawks, falcons, and the occasional bald eagle. There’s something captivating about their power, grace, and presence that keeps me returning to the field.
Most of my wildlife photography happens close to home. I spend time in my backyard, along the Salmon Creek area, and at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge—each location offering unique glimpses into the lives of these incredible animals.
You can explore some of my recent work here:
👉 Bird Gallery – raylundrigan.com
I have about 2,000 bird photos that I've kept... But I am only fond of about 10.
Photos taken while on holiday...
When I travel, I usually bring a small kit: a travel tripod, a 25+ year-old backpack, my camera, and typically three carefully chosen lenses. While photography is always part of the journey, I make a conscious effort to experience each destination beyond the lens. For me, it’s not just about capturing images—it’s about being present, observing, and immersing myself in the environment.
My travel photography bucket list includes iconic and remote destinations alike: Yosemite National Park, Iceland, Ireland, Scotland, and—someday—the Antarctic.
One piece of advice I share with fellow travelers: when visiting places beyond your cultural frame of reference, try to blend in. Don’t bring your culture with you—let the place and its people speak for themselves. You’ll experience more, connect more deeply, and leave with a richer perspective. In cruder words, don't be a dick.
Some people travel to escape life... I travel so that life does not escape me.
Dogs, dogs, dogs...
I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by a lot of dogs, which means endless opportunities to photograph them in their element—whether it's at play, in portrait sessions, or in action at canine sporting events.
My partner Melodi (my Lobster and Life Companion) owns and operates The Civilized Wolf—a boutique pet supply and grooming studio in the heart of downtown Vancouver, WA. Through her business and our shared love of animals, I’ve been able to connect with a vibrant and dog-loving community.
Our own dog, Lola, is an athlete in her own right. She competes in Flyball and plays Toss & Fetch year-round, giving me constant access to high-energy, fast-paced photography moments that challenge both my timing and gear.
Between the shop, our personal lives, and community events, I spend a good portion of my time with dogs—and I love every second of it. Capturing their personalities, playfulness, and athleticism through photography has become one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
Dogs... They are the best invention!
