Photo Journal Correy Overton Photo Journal Correy Overton

Photographing the Valley of Fire

As you leave Las Vegas, the landscape shifts quickly.
Within an hour, the city gives way to open desert — to red sandstone formations rising in every direction. Valley of Fire State Park feels quiet, expansive, and far removed from the Strip.
I spent a morning here focused on slowing down and photographing the beauty with my Sony A7r V with the SIGMA 70-200mm ƒ2.8 DG DN | Sports lens.

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Photo Journal Correy Overton Photo Journal Correy Overton

Simply Florence

Florence is a historic city. It’s commonly thought to be the center of culture and art. It’s also a tourist destination for millions each year. Last year, I became on of those millions.

The city has a lot of offer, obviously. Cathedral of Santa Mario del Fiore, Galleria dell’Accademia and Gallerie degli Uffizi — just to name a few. These are all amazing, memorable and very much worth the visit. But I also wanted a little more authenticity from capital city of Tuscany. So I woke up early, packed my camera bag and walked the streets, watching as the Fiorentini commuted, opened their shops and began their day.

It was a small choice but it allowed me to see a vibrant city without the crowds. No tourists. No street performers. Semplicemente Firenze.

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Event Recap Correy Overton Event Recap Correy Overton

Photographing the Thrill in the Hills 2026 Ultramarathon

For the second year in a row, I volunteered to photograph the Dirty Spokes Thrill in the Hills 50K -- my favorite ultramarathon in Georgia. Ultramarathons are relatively rare in the state, and this event brings together a dedicated community of runners willing to spend hours navigating forest trails, hills, and unpredictable winter weather.

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Correy Overton Correy Overton

The Slow Death of Hospitality

After a year of frequent travel—both personal and professional—I’ve noticed a troubling trend across hotel stays: the steady erosion of true hospitality. From Memphis to small-town Georgia, the warmth and attentiveness that once defined the hotel experience have been replaced by cost-cutting and mediocrity. Here's what that looks like on the ground—and why it matters for travelers.

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Travel Tips Correy Overton Travel Tips Correy Overton

Why Boutique Beats Big-Box

Hospitality isn’t dead — but it’s definitely hiding. After too many underwhelming hotel stays, I’ve started keeping a mental list of places that still get it right. From boutique motels in Utah to thoughtful Airbnbs in Georgia, here are a few gems that reminded me what it means to feel truly welcome.

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Travel Recap Correy Overton Travel Recap Correy Overton

After the Storm

When a powerful tornado devastated St. Louis in May 2025, a community of volunteers, Home Depot employees, and a traveling pitmaster rallied to support recovery efforts. Here’s how food and compassion helped restore hope.

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Correy Overton Correy Overton

4 Affordable Outdoor Alternatives to National Parks

Looking for affordable, crowd-free alternatives to crowded National Parks? Explore hidden gems like state parks, national monuments, and wildlife refuges for memorable outdoor adventures that won’t break your budget.

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Travel Correy Overton Travel Correy Overton

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is a stunning desert destination just outside Las Vegas. From sunrise solitude to dramatic sunset drives, this guide covers how to make the most of your visit—from scenic roads to wildlife sightings and practical tips.

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Experiences Correy Overton Experiences Correy Overton

A Morning in the Fire

Before the chaos of the Strip takes over, I found quiet in the Nevada desert. Valley of Fire State Park surprised me with its beauty, solitude, and fiery red rock formations—just an hour from Las Vegas but a world away.

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