Shanda Akin Photography

03/23/2026

We couldn't be more excited to announce the details of our one-of-a-kind women's event for 2026. The Women's Immersive Photography Retreat. We will take you beyond the ordinary and into an immersive space full of unique activities focused on developing your skills, building connections, and inspiring creativity. We have hands-on activities lined up for you that you won’t find at any other photography retreat or conference.

Calling all women and non-binary photographers!

Whether you are just starting out or you’ve been behind the lens for years, this retreat is for you!

Introducing our Women’s Immersive Photography Retreat at the rustic and charming Glen Isle Resort in Bailey, Colorado, nestled in a serene forest at the base of the Rocky Mountains.

Are you in? Tag a photographer who needs this!

Find more information at the link below.

03/08/2026

I’m here in my studio today fine-tuning some of the final details for a presentation this week that I’ve been pretty excited about delivering; “Polishing your Craft; Learning to Critique Yourself Effectively.” It goes beyond simply critiquing the technical aspects of our work and leans into learning why self-critique matters, how to see our work objectively, and turning critique into creative momentum.

If you’re interested in inviting me to speak on this subject or other creative aspects, contact me through my website so we can get the conversation started.

03/08/2026

We finally had a little snow. The wind was blowing, visibility was low, and the roads were a mess yet every moment was simply blissful! I’ve been anxiously waiting to go on some snowy adventures, but we’ve hardly had any snow this year. Today, I spent most of my time wandering around some of my favorite Ponderosa pine forests.
Nikon z7ii +Nikkor 24-70mm

02/22/2026

When it snows, which hasn't been very often this year, you will find me running out the door to play and photograph. Last week, we finally had some snow here in the Durango-area. I was out photographing blowing snow amongst the Ponderosas when these guys came to say hello. They were quite curious about me and were eager to say hello. Is there anything more beautiful than horses in the snow?

01/27/2026

Hi everyone. I’ve been asked a lot lately about the photography gear I use in winter and how I get around to places (and stay warm). I wrote a quick article on my blog (link in comments below) with many of the answers. This list may not be what everyone uses, but it’s what makes me able to function and photograph this time of yera. Winter scenes are some of my favorite, but staying out in extreme temperatures and elements like wind and snow can be challenges that turn many people off or that shorten outings. I certainly do not like to be cold myself. It takes my concentration and enjoyment out of photographing.

What is some of your favorite gear?

01/24/2026

"Serenity"
We just received a small layer of snow, 1-2 inches, here in the Durango-area. Every time it snows, I still get excited like a kid seeing their first snowfall. I’m constantly in awe with how snow completely changes the look of the landscape, the light at the fringes of the day shift, and even the sounds and smells. It peaks all of my senses and creates a calm.

This calmness makes me think of a particularly special day that wasn’t special for any specific reason. The photograph I’m sharing is one I created that morning that holds a mood for me, it draws emotions. It may not be an award winner or “best of” anything, it simply fills my soul with serenity.

01/17/2026

Thank you everyone who grabbed a 2026 Colorado calendar this year. There are just 19 left if you didn't get one. Shipping in the US is still free. https://www.shandaakin.com/2026-colorado-calendar

12/01/2025

Hi everyone. My slideshow for the inaugural Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown is officially viewable by the public! It is my very first post on YouTube, feel free to like, share, and comment. Thank you for taking a look! I hope you enjoy!

https://youtu.be/MWTa5qU0b2c?si=QdumbzYQoVxBeMt8

My presentation created for the inaugural Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown. Recipient of the People's Choice and Best Train Photograph awards. https://phot...

11/23/2025

Just wow. I still feel like I'm on a cloud. I presented 180 of my images in a slideshow for the inaugural Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown on Wednesday. It was such a fun, unique event I was grateful to be a part of. I received two awards: the People's Choice and Best Train Photograph. I appreciate all those of you who came out to support me and the event. I will share the link to my presentation to my subscribers on Wednesday and then publicly after Thanksgiving. If you want to see the presentation next week, be sure to subscribe if you haven't already. https://www.shandaakin.com/subscribe

11/03/2025

Hi everyone! You're invited to attend a fun photography event happening in Durango this month. I'm honored to be one of the 5 professional photographers showcasing their work in the inaugural Colorado Pro Photographer Showdown taking place at the Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall. It's happening on November 19th at 7:00 pm. I’m including the website below for more information and for you to grab your tickets. Come out, have fun, cheer, and celebrate photography. See you there!

08/08/2025

Elevate your photography! We're hosting a free photography webinar chalked full of creative insights. It's free, just register to attend. https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_eaBY8r9pQAKIs1JTr3h-GQ

Join us for our free upcoming Creative Insights webinar on August 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM (MST)

Dive into a world of creative ideas designed to enhance your technical skills and artistic vision. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, this session offers valuable insights, practical tips, and the motivation you need to take your photography journey to the next level.

Learn from Pro Photographers Huibo Hou, Michael Bollino, Talor Stone, and Sarah Marino.
It’s free! You just need to register (link in comments below)






See you there!