January 1 - January Full Moon behind Split Rock LighthouseFor the past 25 years, I have been trekking up the North Shore of Lake Superior to photograph the January full moon as it rises behind the rock cliffs, silhouetting the lighthouse. There are only a few winter nights when this can happen, and it's a notable night that photographers in the northland wait for.As you stand there and watch this phenomenon, you cannot help but appreciate the universe as it rotates from days to months, seasons, and years. The clockwork of the universe keeps ticking.Our heavenly Father not only created the heavens, but He also sustains them for His joy and our pleasure.Everything He does reveals His glory and majesty. His righteousness never fails. Psa 111:3Look up into the clear, starry winter night, and it will make you feel small and our God very big.
January 2 - Great Grey Owl - A Silent HunterDuring mid-winter, an effective hunter of the North Woods, the Grey owl ventures south from Canada to forage for mice and other small creatures. This big guy did not seem bothered by my being there, and he was as curious about me as I was about him.The beautiful Great Gray Owl is a powerful bird. It can break through hard-packed snow to grab a small mammal moving beneath the surface. In winter, it eats up to 7 small mammals a day.It is incredible how a simple walk in the woods can make your day with something you never expected.But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the LORD has done this? Job 12:7-9The Great Grey Owl is a perfect example of God's natural design. This bird has so many built-in survival capabilities that it glorifies God by its mere existence. If we take time to focus, it is not hard to see the hand of God in all His creation.
January 3 - Deep Winter ShippingThe Cason J Callaway arrived in Duluth, passing through sea smoke boiling off Lake Superior's open water. Within a few weeks, this area will be thick ice until Spring.Shipping on Lake Superior continues into mid-January with severe cold and thick ice. However, in these icy conditions of -20F, you can also see incredible beauty everywhere you look. The coldest temperature recorded in Duluth was -41, which occurred on January 2, 1885. Emersed in the cold of January, Springtime seems far off; however, the daylight hours are already stretching longer, and soon, it will be noticeably lighter at supper time."From the breath of God ice is made,And the expanse of the waters is frozen." Job 37:10Sometimes hope is surrounding us, and we miss it because of our situation, but Spring is right around the corner, just like January. And indeed, as Spring follows Winter, as Christians, the hope we find in Christ is always there; we only have to look up.
January 4th - Split Rock Lighthouse - The Guiding Light of the North ShoreThis image was taken in 2007, when the full (Wolf) moon rose from behind Split Rock Lighthouse. The high clouds veiled the moon's face as the setting sun cast magenta light across the scene. As darkness set in, the moonlight broke through in a fantastic scene, and the photographers along the shoreline of Lake Superior. This January phenomenon is one photographer's wait for the whole year. is one photographer's wait for the whole year.I can only imagine the relief sailors would feel once they recognized the flashing light pattern of Split Rock and other lighthouses around the lake, especially during foul weather.You, LORD, are my lamp; the LORD turns my darkness into light. 2 Samuel 22:29 Much as the storm-tossed sailors hoped to see the sure light of Split Rock, we have the same hope in knowing that God is with us, never changing and steadfast on the rock of Jesus Christ.
January 5th - Icy Reflections - Wisconsin Point LighthouseThe Wisconsin Point Lighthouse reflects beautifully in the transparent ice surrounding the entrance to the Duluth-Superior Harbor.Built in 1913, the Wisconsin Point Lighthouse has watched over the Wisconsin Entry for over a century. This stunning lighthouse has withstood high winds, powerful waves, lightning, and extreme cold throughout the years. It stands as a testament to the construction crews and engineers who designed and built it.Wisconsin Point Light is one of my favorite lighthouses in the area, and it's definitely worth taking a scenic drive down Wisconsin Point to see it for yourself."The LORD is my rock, my fortress, my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold." - Psalm 18:2Often overlooked, the Wisconsin Point Lighthouse is not only a marvel of architecture but also an emblem of resilience.
January 6th - Ice Tug FormationSea smoke drifts across the Duluth Shipping Canal as ice-covered tugboats motor through the icy waters. Their red hulls emerge from the cold fog after escorting a laker onto Lake Superior for its final crossing of the season. Steel meets ice, and the cold bites your fingers as soon as you take off your gloves to adjust the camera settings.The final week of the Great Lakes shipping season demands constant attention. Tugboats, as well as the CGC Spar, work tirelessly to keep channels open, guiding vessels safely as ice forms and temperatures plunge.I’ve always admired the grit and dedication of these mariners. Working long hours in bitter cold, they quietly do the work most never see. Watching them move through steam and ice is a reminder that perseverance often happens far from applause.“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” — Proverbs 3:5–6January’s sharp air and stark beauty invite us to trust deeply, endure patiently, and remain thankful—especially in life’s most demanding seasons.
January 7th – Winter SunriseLocated near Split Rock Lighthouse, the sun rises over Ellison Island, reminding us of God's craftsmanship in everyday moments, breaking through a thin layer of winter haze and reflecting across the frozen surface of Lake Superior.Because the winter sun stays low on the horizon, its light must travel through more atmosphere. That extra distance scatters the light, revealing softer purples and pinks that only appear on the coldest mornings.Interestingly, I didn't plan on taking this picture; sometimes, photography happens. Waiting in the cold, watching the horizon, trusting that something worth seeing will eventually occur. These moments of stillness reveal God's work, much like life-He has been crafting things for our good all along; we don't notice it."And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun rises, even a morning without clouds." — 2 Samuel 23:4Mornings like this don't last long. The light shifts, the color fades, and the day moves on. But for a brief moment, everything slows enough to be noticed. Take a minute today to see that the God of the universe has been crafting the circumstances of your life all along, reminding us that life itself is a gift to be appreciated.
January 8 – South Pier MoonriseJanuary’s full moon drifts up from Lake Superior, splashing cold light across the water and low winter clouds. Reflections shimmer and blur, turning the scene into something quietly surreal.January is an ideal month for moonrises. Clear air and snow-covered ground amplify the light, filling even the deepest shadows with a soft glow.This same January moon has risen over the South Pier Lighthouse for more than a century, keeping its appointed place in the clockwork of the universe and marking the passing of time.For you are my lamp, O Lord, and my God lightens my darkness. — 2 Samuel 22:29Even in the darkest season, steady light is enough to guide the way.
January 9 - Frosty ForestAfter three days of freezing fog, the forests across the Northland became covered with rime ice.Rime ice forms when supercooled water liquid droplets freeze onto surfaces. The incredible beauty caught everyone's attention.God seems to gently "breathe" on the earth as it becomes covered with frost. Then, when daylight breaks and the curtain of freezing clouds lift off the landscape, the wonder of God's creation reveals His Glory for our pleasure. He gives snow like wool;He scatters the frost like ashes. Psalm 147:16Thank you, Lord, for showing us your beauty, peace, and quiet in a world of confusion and chaos.
January 10 - Ice ShardsLayers of sheet ice piled up on the Park Point shoreline. The early morning light and clear blue sky set the scene for another perfect morning along the shore.Sheets of ice are broken up and stacked into piles by wind and currents along Lake Superior's shore. As I lay down in the snow to take this photo, I watched and listened as the shards moved and bumped against each other, sounding like a crystal chandelier.The scene was like a thousand others taking place on this day along Lake Superior. I felt blessed to have enjoyed midwinter in the cool Northland.By the breath of God, ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast. Job 37:10Sometimes you happen upon beauty; sometimes you have to search for it; and sometimes both happenstance and looking come together in the same place.
January 11 - Winter NightscapeDeep winter in the Northland reveals many breathtaking scenes; the colder it gets, the more beauty seems to pop out. On a freezing evening in mid-January, the colors saturate blue, and the windblown snow-sculpted drifts become visible.The cold, clear air slaps you in the face and grabs your attention for a brief moment, offering a fleeting piece of art.It is hard to believe that daylight will be noticeably longer in just a few weeks, and while thoughts of springtime are only in retailers' minds as they prepare for the next season, time doesn't wait, and the ability to enjoy today for what it is is a gift from God."For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater." Isaiah 55:10There are no guarantees for tomorrow; count your blessings and make today matter.
January 12 - Ghost ShipLake Superior lets off steam as an ice-covered Laker enters the Duluth Shipping Canal on a freezing January morning. Fingers freeze, and camera batteries die quickly in this weather, so quick snapshots are the rule of the day. There are a few days of Duluth's year when conditions are right for thick sea smoke, but those challenging days make for some beautiful images.All three forms of water are visible here: steam, liquid, and ice.The swirling fog, icy-cold steel, and soft light combine to chill you to the bone while warming the spirit. Winter is the master season for photography in the Northland.By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast. Job 37:10Winter strips the world to its essentials—cold, light, and breath. In that simplicity, the presence of God becomes easier to see.
January 13 - Bowstring BridgeThe Bowstring Bridge, also called the Horton Bridge, spans the Amnicon River and graces Amnicon State Park's landscapes near Superior, Wisconsin.Located in the Poplar River valley, when snow falls, it intensifies in this sheltered pine landscape, magnifying the beauty of a recent storm.The sound of running water, chirping chickadees, and a gentle wind blowing through the treetops gives you a sense of peace that only being in nature can provide.Let the field exult, and all that is in it.Then all the trees of the forest will sing for joy. Psalm 96:12You may have a hectic day ahead; use this image of God's handiwork to find peace in the deep woods.
January 14 – Cold WaveI always stop by Split Rock State Park when I head up the North Shore of Lake Superior, and this day was no different. A sunny winter afternoon with light winds made conditions feel almost gentle—at least at first.The waves were still energized from a passing cold front the day before. Fresh snow along the shoreline and emerald-blue water rolling in from the open lake created an unforgettable winter scene, both beautiful and intimidating.In moments like this, “wow” is the only word that comes to mind. Your heart pounds as you carefully pick your way across ice-coated rocks, drawn closer by the raw energy of the lake and the promise of a better vantage point.“You rule the swelling of the sea; when its waves rise, You still them.”Psalm 89:9The power of creation often lies hidden beneath the surface, revealed only when it rises in force. In the same way, the power of God is always present—steady, sovereign, and sure. Seek Him, and you’ll find He is already there, meeting you in the moment.
January 15 – Ice Crystal | Beauty in the Little ThingsJanuary is filled with ice and snow, and the scenery is incredible everywhere. You don’t have to leave your yard to photograph some of nature’s most fascinating details.This image was captured by mounting my camera on a frozen microscope. When you first focus on a snow crystal, you’re struck with awe as its intricate structure comes into view.As a photographer, I often feel overwhelmed standing before a landscape covered with billions of these tiny works of art—knowing I will never see most of them. Yet seeing even one feels like a special gift.“From whose womb did the ice come forth, and who has given birth to the frost of heaven?” — Job 38:29If God cares enough to craft beauty at this scale—unseen and fleeting—how much more care must He have for us?
January 16 – Winter WhitetailsResilienceWhite-tailed deer are among God’s most beautiful creatures and thrive abundantly in the Northland. This doe and yearling were quietly browsing fresh alder along Skyline Drive in Duluth on a mid-January afternoon.Deer exhibit remarkable resilience in winter. Their dense cold-season coat consists of hollow hairs that trap air for insulation—so effective that snow can rest on their backs without melting, clearly demonstrating how little body heat escapes even in extreme cold.Scenes like this unfold everywhere across the Northland in January. Whether it’s whitetails in the woods, sea smoke on Lake Superior, or ice forming along the shoreline, winter offers countless opportunities to slow down and notice the beauty of the season.“God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like the deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places.” — Habakkuk 3:19If God so carefully equips the deer to endure deep winter, how much more will He provide for us—strength for today, shelter from the cold, and the people we meet along the way. Even in winter, we have much to be thankful for.
January 17 - Frozen Assets On a frigid January day, the 1000 ft Paul R Tregurtha entered the Duluth Shipping Canal loaded with ice from its frigid trip across Lake Superior.As the Great Lakes shipping season ends mid-January, lakers struggle through extreme weather as the grip of a powerful cold front holds tight.Water appears here in all three of its physical states: liquid, vapor, and ice—a perfect scene for winter photography. Come to me, all who labor and are heavily laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28A quiet scene of peace and beauty. We all need rest at some point, both physically and spiritually. So, take a few minutes today to reflect on where you are and where you are going! God knows your situation and offers rest beyond measure.
January 18 - The Big Dipper in the AurorasThe Aurora Borealis flicked to life in the night skies above a snow-covered landscape. The calm winds and silent forest added to The Northern Light's mystique on this sub-zero January evening.The mix of landscape, skies, and stars combine to declare the glory of God in this January scenery in the northern forest."Yours is the day, Yours also the night; You have established the heavenly lights and the sun. You have fixed all the boundaries of the earth; You have made summer and winter." (Psalm 74:16-17) It is humbling to know that God is at work, painting the sky for an audience of one. We only have to "look up" and see him through His creation as He looks down to give peace to our souls.
January 19 — Frosty PineWith a recent January thaw, the trees picked up a delicate coating of frost, turning the landscape into a blanket of white. Pine cones punctuate the scene with warm color, subtle contrast, and texture against the snow.Norway pine cones are fascinating natural humidity sensors—opening in dry air to release seeds and closing in damp conditions—using layered scales that move on their own without any living tissue or energy, perfectly timed to the forest’s weather.Pines themselves thrive in harsh winter environments. Inside their needles is a natural antifreeze that allows them to continue photosynthesizing whenever temperatures rise above freezing, even in the depths of winter. We could use some of that stuff on days like this.“Ask the beasts, and they will teach you; the birds of the heavens, and they will tell you… Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this?” — Job 12:7–9God uses nature to quietly reveal resilience, purpose, and care woven into the world He created.
January 20 — Wind-Shaped PinesOn Wisconsin Point, a mature pine forest rises quietly from ancient sand. Red and white pines stand firm against Lake Superior’s wind, their trunks subtly twisted and branches thinned by decades of weather. The air carries the scent of resin and cold water, and the forest floor is soft with needles, moss, and lichen. Nothing here feels hurried.This pine forest is a rare survivor along the Lake Superior shoreline. Growing on dry, nutrient-poor sand deposited by ancient lake levels, these pines endure conditions that few other trees can tolerate. Historically shaped by periodic fire and constant wind, the forest remains open and resilient, resisting the slow encroachment of hardwoods. Many of these trees are older than they appear, their tight growth rings recording years of cold summers and long winters.This is a forest shaped not by abundance, but by endurance. The pines do not fight the wind—they grow with it. They accept poor soil, harsh winters, and constant exposure, yet remain steady year after year. There is a quiet lesson here: strength does not always come from comfort. Sometimes it comes from learning how to stand faithfully where you are planted.“He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither.”— Psalm 1:3Like these wind-shaped pines, we are not called to control our conditions, but to remain rooted through them. Growth may be slow and unseen, but faithfulness in every season leaves a lasting mark. What’s your rush today! There is a lesson here.
January 21 — Winter SunsetTwo Harbors Breakwater LighthouseBuilt in 1892, the Two Harbors breakwater lighthouse has stood watch for more than a century. Together with the nearby historic lighthouse, it has guided mighty U.S. Steel ships safely into harbor through fog, darkness, and winter storms.The structure rises 49 feet above the breakwater, while its beacon shines 78 feet above the waters of Lake Superior—a steady point of reference in an often-unforgiving place.On a cold January evening, the setting sun pours warm color across the scene. Though the air is bitter, the light softens everything it touches, reminding us how color and contrast can transform even the coldest moments into something that feels welcoming.For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light. Psalm 36:9Today is a great day to be alive—a fleeting gift, lasting only as long as the sea smoke.
January 22 — Owl WatchDuring January, owls can often be seen along Northland roads and walking paths, and heard at night outside windows, hooting as they hunt for prey. This Great Gray Owl positioned himself high in a tree, keeping an eye on me and the snow-covered landscape below.The Great Gray Owl has the most powerful hearing of any owl—so precise that it can hunt entirely by sound, plunging through deep snow to snatch a tiny mouse it never saw, guided only by subtle movements beneath the surface.It is amazing how God designs and equips His creatures with exactly the abilities they need to survive in the places He has provided for them.“The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food at the proper time.” — Psalm 145:15The owl is a quiet display of God’s faithful provision. What has He provided for you today?
January 23 - Blue Jay - King of the Northern Forests This January has been an exceptional month for photographing blue jays around the backyard feeders. The flock rushes in as soon as I set out the seeds, shouting to each other to come and get their favorite treat, the peanuts.The Blue Jay is a beautiful resident of the northern forests. Its dignified crest, blue, white, and black feathers, and unique calls make it an exceptional bird. Blue Jays are intelligent birds with tight family bonds. These beautiful songbirds love to sing throughout the forest, symbolizing clarity, vibrancy, and intellect. Once Blue Jays' mate, they stay together for life. Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Matthew 6:26God's creation declares His existence from every corner of the earth for our enjoyment and His glory.
January 24 — Snow CoverSnow settles heavily on birch trunks and pine boughs, layering the forest in soft white stillness. The contrast between smooth birch bark and dark evergreen needles creates a peaceful winter mosaic. Beneath these branches, small animals find shelter from wind and cold, hidden within the quiet of the Northland woods.Birch and pine trees survive deep winter not by resisting the cold, but by adapting to it. They use natural antifreeze sugars, controlled dehydration, and protective structures that preserve living cells until warmer days return.Creation is filled with wonders that point us toward the Creator. Trees did not stumble into such intricate survival systems by chance. They were crafted with intention by an infinitely knowledgeable God, designed to endure seasons and display His wisdom through even the smallest details of life.“He gives snow like wool; He scatters frost like ashes. He hurls down His crystals of ice like crumbs; who can stand before His cold? He sends out His word, and melts them; He makes His wind blow and the waters flow.” - Psalm 147:16–18As you observe these resilient trees resting beneath the snow, remember that God has carefully formed you as well, created to endure seasons, reflect His glory, and flourish in His perfect timing. Today is one of a kind and will soon be past. Take a moment to give thanks for your next breath—you are not here by chance.
January 25 - Fire and IceWarm sunlight and ice-covered rocks blend, repeating a January scene across the Lake Superior shore. With the Duluth Lighthouse in the background, the sea smoke rising, and the colorful sunrise, it makes it worth a little sting of frostbite on the fingers.In deep winter, water appears in three states at once—ice along the shore, liquid lake water, and vapor rising as steam fog. As sunlight moves through this cold, moisture-filled air, it scatters and softens, blending ice, water, and light into a brief and beautiful winter display.January bursts with spectacular scenes that few people ever witness. Each day, God crafts these breathtaking moments for His pleasure, and occasionally, we get to enjoy them too. So teach us to number our days so that we may present a heart of wisdom to You. Psalm 90:12Small changes in time go unnoticed in our busy lives, but time moves on by minutes, days, months, and years, sometimes without notice. So, take a minute today to reflect on our blessings and thank God for each minute.
January 26 - Winter PassageA blanket of freshly fallen snow covers the landscape around the Amity Creek Stone Arch Bridge in Duluth. This small pedestrian bridge is a work of art built in the 1930's by Depression-era stone masons. Hand-laid from local stone and designed to blend into the gorge, it is a tribute to a long-lost craft. The heavy snow cover muffles every sound, yet you can still hear the hidden water flow beneath the ice. The joy of winter is the quiet peacefulness surrounding you on a walk up a frozen Lester River. The occasional chirp of a chickadee or squawk of a raven breaks the silence, only to return to peaceful quiet. You see this scene, and you can't help but believe that it was crafted by the hand of God just for this moment to interrupt your day.You keep him in perfect peace, whose mind stays on you because he trusts you. Isaiah 26:3The only peace and safety in this world is hope and faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Walk in the truth and enjoy today.
January 27 – Lake Superior Agates - Gems of the NorthThese polished Lake Superior agates began as rough, unremarkable stones before spending two months in a rock tumbler. Through the harsh, repetitive action of tumbling across progressively finer grits, their hidden beauty slowly revealed itself.Designated the Minnesota State Gemstone in 1969, Lake Superior agates are prized worldwide for their durability, color, and distinctive banding. Carried and scattered by ancient glaciers, these agates form with warm reds, oranges, and browns as iron minerals oxidize—an iron-rich chemistry that gives them their signature fire.When fully polished, agates develop a glassy, almost glowing surface that brings their internal bands to life. They are valued not only for how they appear in the wild, but for the beauty revealed through patience and refinement.“The foundations of the wall of the city were adorned with every kind of jewel. The first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate…” — Revelation 21:19Much like the agate, which is shaped and polished over time to reveal its enduring beauty, the hard tumbles of life can also uncover the inner strength and resilience within us, highlighting a beauty meant to last.
January 28 — Snow-Capped Pines A cold, crisp sunrise breaks through freshly fallen snow in a quiet tamarack swamp. Overnight, a powerful January cold snap swept across the Northland, laying down nearly a foot of powder.Winter fronts around Lake Superior and northeastern Minnesota are among the most dramatic of the year — fueled by deep Arctic air, jet stream energy, and sharp temperature contrasts.Standing in a frozen forest is a natural reset for the soul. In the heart of deep winter, these moments of stillness feel like a gift.“By the breath of God ice is given, and the broad waters are frozen fast.” — Job 37:10Time moves faster than any cold front. Pause when you can. Feel the cold. Let it wake you up. and live today for the Glory of God.
January 29 - Moonshine at Gooseberry FallsThe frozen waterfalls at Gooseberry Falls State Park look much different when bathed in the moonlight of a full January moon.On a cold, clear January night with fresh snow on the ground, moonlight can feel dramatically brighter than usual — even though it's still hundreds of thousands of times dimmer than daylight. Fresh snow reflects up to 90% of incoming light, acting like a giant mirror, and the camera sensor, with a slow shutter speed, easily captures this light into interesting imagery.The evening's quiet is broken only by an occasional owl hoot and the muted bubbling of the Gooseberry River, which is still moving under the ice and snow.He reveals deep and hidden things;He knows what lies in darkness,and light dwells with him. Daniel 2:22What you see when you walk outside under the light of a full moon is incredible. What you see under the light of the Gospel far outshines anything else.
January 30 - Winter WhiteSnow clings to the trees and grass after a January snowfall. The blue skies, fresh snow, and pure arctic air make for a perfect winter day.Any wind would have blown this cotton-like snow off the branches, but it hung on long enough for me to capture this winter scene.Understanding the Creator through His artwork magnifies this small piece of God's glory into a sense of thankfulness and appreciation for cold winter days.Praise the Lord from the earth, you great sea creatures and all deeps, fire and hail, snow and mist, stormy wind fulfilling his word! Psalm 148:7-8It's a great day to be alive! Every breath we take is a gift from the same God who mastered this scene.
January 31 - Moon LightThe solar system's rotation, a testament to divine order, continues its perfect timing year after year, month after month. And so, photographers flock to Split Rock Lighthouse on the one night a year when the moon rises behind the lighthouse.Although the one night changes with the calendar date, the full moon is sure to rise behind the lighthouse on the night of the full moon.The anticipation of seeing the moon crest the cliff as it slides out from behind the lighthouse is always an enjoyable observation for any photographer. "He stretches out the north over the void and hangs the earth on nothing." Job 26:7. What a wondrous act of creation, a reminder of the divine's unfathomable power and wisdom. Thank you, Lord, for your creation that points to You, and for the exquisite beauty of winter that we are privileged to enjoy and live in.
