Earth Day provides an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the world around us. We have the power to “Restore Our Earth” for future generations. If only we work together, on a path to the preservation of nature. It’s a path photojournalist Cortney Kintzer’s been on, since he was a child. Today, the Iowa native shares his view of nature from behind the lens.

“Ever since I was a young boy, I loved taking walks in the woods by myself. My dad taught me the love of nature by feeding birds in our back yard. Every day was an adventure!”

“When I was in high school, a 35mm camera was my companion. I am always keeping an eye out for the unusual and quirky. “

When seasons collide, it can be a beautiful thing, as captured by the award winning photojournalist. How often can you tiptoe through the tulips, covered in snow? Now, that’s an adventure!

“I love abandoned buildings and barns. They have so much character and mystery.”

Cortney has an innate sense of storytelling through images. If there’s a hidden door, he’ll find a path to open it and and preserve the past through pictures.

“My advice to young photographers is to always keep your eyes open. Everyone has a cell phone, don’t be afraid to use it. Get on your hands and knees, get dirty to look for those unusual angles and closeups!”

The circle of life continues for the father of three, who’s passed his love of history and nature onto his children. Cortney says he has faith in our youth and sees a bright future, if we all work together.

“We have only one planet, let’s take care of it and enjoy every ounce of its stunning surprises!” -Cortney Kintzer