We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexander Miller and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexander, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose to pursue a creative career because of the enjoyment and freedom that I find in being able to express myself creatively. Having a creative career has allowed me the opportunity to create and think outside the box when processing different ideas. Being able to create something has been rewarding because at the end of the day I know that the work I have done is mine and not someone else’s. Doing my own work allows me to be proud of myself and the things that I am capable of when I put my mind to it.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My brand is called Present Moment Photographs because I believe in the power of the present moment. Landscape photography has really opened my eyes to the world and how many amazing things there are out there. I used to think that Arizona was just a desert but photography showed me how many unique and amazing places there are which I know I would have never visited or even known about if I wasn’t seeking an experience through a lens. Photography and the present moment is something that is very unique because of the ability for a camera to capture an image in a fraction of a second. That same camera can also capture one image or snapshot of time as a long exposure over minutes. In a weird way the ability of a camera to capture a moment over different variations of time just goes to show that the present moment always exists, especially when paying attention.

My photography sets me apart because I am always seeking something new to photograph, even when in familiar locations. Like I mentioned, photography has pushed my boundaries of exploring beyond what is found on a typical Google search. In my photography I try to capture unique perspectives that are a little off the beaten path. I also try to include some sort of foreground element in all my images to add depth to them.

Getting to where I am today has not been easy and there have been numerous times in which I wanted to just give up. Even though I love the outdoors and photography it still is a lot of work. My passion and love is really what kept me coming back after periods of time in which I would feel uninspired. Every single time I get outside to take photos or videos of the outdoors I am reminded of the power that can be found in any given place and moment, I just need to remind myself when I get into creative ruts that the effort and work is worth it because it easily is.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I currently live in Prescott and would start with grabbing a burger for lunch from Sammies. It is a new small local spot that opened recently and has my favorite food in all of Prescott. We would then head across the street to Watson Lake for sunset, this is easily one of my favorite locations to photography due to its beauty and proximity to home. There is a lot to explore among the granite rocks.

The next day I would take them to Jenn’s on 7th for some of the best breakfast in the area. We would then be off to camp around the state, starting in Sedona. I like to avoid the tourists of Sedona so I would head up to Schnebly Hill Road which can only be accessed with a 4×4 high clearance vehicle. This road offers panoramic views of the Sedona Valley and is a great location to photograph sunset. After this adventure we would head to Butterfly Burger for some great burgers but even better milkshakes!

After exploring the many trails and off trails of Sedona we would continue to head North towards Page. This is my favorite area in Arizona and where we would spend most of our time. Horseshoe Bend is a classic although it is a bit overcrowded. Bird House in Page is a must stop with the best fried chicken I have ever had! We would also spend time exploring Lake Powel, the slot canyons in the area, and my favorite place in the state the Vermillion Cliffs.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Michael Shainblum – Michael is a landscape photographer from California who’s work has always inspired me. I have always thought that I am very good at what I do however photographers like Michael have shown me that there is still progress to be made and work to be done. Having someone in the same field as myself who I can look up to has driven me to learn more in order to grow.

Robin and John Miller (Mom and Dad) – My parents have always been my number one supporters. I never really knew what they thought about me potentially pursuing a career in photography and content creation but they were always by my side supporting whatever I wanted to do and what made me happy. I don’t think I would have continued to pursue my passion if my parents hadn’t supported me in doing so, and for that I am very appreciative.

Website: https://www.presentmomentphotographs.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/presentmomentphotographs

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-miller-am1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PresentMomentPhotographs

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKG9f2vcdkcbVfozubGLILw

Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@presentmomentphotos

Image Credits
All Present Moment Photographs

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.