A Photographic Love Letter to California

Sunset staff photographer Thomas J. Story has spent the past 25 years photographing the West. Here, he shares some of his favorite photographs of this place that we cherish with all of our hearts.

Thomas J. Story

I remember the first time I drove across the San Francisco Bay Bridge at night in my 1964 Karmann Ghia after driving across the country from the East Coast. Recently married in 1992, my wife and I wanted to start something new, so we chose California as our new home.

Thomas J. Story

I remember the feeling of the warm summer air (it was August) as it blew through the open windows in my non-air-conditioned little car. “Wow,” I thought. “I’m living in California now.”

Thomas J. Story

I imagine most people remember their California first time. First time driving down the Pacific Coast Highway and having Big Sur open up to you. The first dip in warm (Southern California!) ocean waters. The first trip to Yosemite. Tahoe. Eastern Sierra. Mono Lake. Mulholland Drive at twilight. Seeing the bison herd in Golden Gate Park. The first time realizing just how much more of California there is north of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Thomas J. Story

California is an incredible state. The diversity of people, scenery, and cuisine is second to none. When any of this is threatened, it is heartbreaking for all of us. Living here, people always ask “What about the earthquakes? Aren’t you afraid of those?”

Thomas J. Story

I think at this point in our current situation, we can all agree the destructive forces of untamed wildfires are probably our biggest fear. The loss of culture, history, monuments, and locations that are not easily replaced can be staggering.

Thomas J. Story

We need to appreciate what we have when we have it. I have been lucky enough to make my living documenting our life here in the West for Sunset magazine for 25 years now. I promise you, I will never take anything for granted in this beautiful state ever again.

Thomas J. Story