Galen Rowell was an American photographer, climber, and writer, known for his stunning landscape photography. Born on August 23, 1940, he gained fame for capturing the beauty of natural environments, particularly in the Sierra Nevada and Himalayas. His work often emphasized the interplay of light and color in outdoor settings. In addition to photography, Rowell authored several books and articles, sharing his experiences in both climbing and nature. He was a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and used his art to promote awareness of the importance of preserving natural landscapes. Rowell passed away in a plane crash on August 11, 2002.