Your Questions, Answered
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We specialize in landscape and outdoor photography in the Aspen/ Roaring Fork Valley, with additional work in real estate, event, portrait, and product photography. Riley provides stunning underwater and macro photography as well.
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We are based in Carbondale, Colorado and regularly shoot throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, including Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale and the surrounding areas. With roots in Southern California, Riley is also available for appointment in the Los Angeles Area. Prints may be shipped to anywhere in the United States.
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Yes, we accept a limited number of commissioned projects for brands, tourism boards, and outdoor-focused businesses; please see Client Tab for examples of previous work.
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Riley’s work is rooted in natural light, dramatic mountain landscapes, and authentic outdoor moments, with an emphasis on texture, atmosphere, and the unique character of the Roaring Fork Valley.
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Riley’s experience as a professional ski patroller has given him a unique perspective and amount of time spent in the high alpine. Combined with years of backcountry experience with a landscape-first approach, prioritizing honest, immersive scenes over staged images, and he creates cohesive collections that highlight the valley’s seasonal changes and high-alpine environments. His tie back to Southern California give him a wide range of imagery surrounding the ocean and beach.
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Yes, in addition to mountain landscapes, he has extensive experience with macro and underwater imaging, as well as multi-day backpacking trips where he carries professional camera gear into remote terrain.
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You can submit an inquiry through the contact form on my website with details about your project, preferred dates, and location. We’ll respond with availability, a proposed scope, and next steps.
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Commercial licensing is available for select images for use in digital campaigns, editorial, and print; share your intended usage and distribution, and I’ll provide licensing options and fees.
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Yes, I offer fine art prints of selected images; you can browse available pieces on the Gallery pages and use the Custom Print form to fill out your desired size and format. All prints are customizable to your liking utilizing the highest quality formats across a wide range of mediums. Prices can vary significantly based on the print format, hanging options, and sizing. Examples of Print Styles
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Images are delivered as high-resolution digital files suitable for web and print, following the format and color profile agreed upon at the start of the project. A link will be provided upon completion of the project which will allow for unlimited, full resolution downloads. The link will be active for a month from the date of delivery. After the month passes, a new link will have to be requested to access online library provided by Riley Thomas Media.
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Every delivered image is fully edited for exposure, color, and contrast to match my portfolio style; additional specialized retouching can be arranged for commercial projects if requested.
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Turnaround time varies with project size, but most commissions are delivered within 5-10 business days via an online gallery or file transfer link specified in your agreement. Timelines will be agreed upon at the time of the booking.
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Each season has its own character: winter brings snow-covered peaks, spring offers runoff and fresh greens, summer has alpine wildflowers, and fall features golden aspens and crisp high-country light.
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Most outdoor sessions are scheduled around sunrise or sunset to take advantage of soft, directional light and the most dramatic conditions in the mountains.
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Yes, I suggest locations based on your goals, season, and conditions, drawing on years of hiking and backpacking experience in the Roaring Fork Valley and the surrounding Colorado mountains.
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I offer options ranging from roadside or short-walk viewpoints to more strenuous hikes; we’ll choose locations that match your comfort level and any accessibility needs
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Most images featured on my Instagram are available as prints or licenses; send a screenshot, link or short description through the contact form, and I’ll confirm availability, sizing, and pricing
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Yes, I collaborate with local businesses, tourism entities, and outdoor brands to create imagery that highlights the region’s landscapes, experiences, and seasonal attractions.
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Short form videos can be produced in conjunction with photos. Media packages are available and can be discussed at the time of booking. Turnaround times can be expected to be 50-75% longer than photo specific projects.
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Yes, the typical offering for a portrait session allows for an outfit change. A secondary location can also be requested for a slight charge as well.
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Yes and yes! A benefit of ordering locally, typically for pieces larger than 24'“x24”, is that Riley will come to your home, office, or space to assist with determining size, print format, lighting, and subject matter if requested. If you are not in the area, feel free to send a photo of the space you want to fill and we can work through which option will be best for you.
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Yes, Riley offers surprise proposal packages and is willing to hike into areas prior to your arrival to discreetly capture that perfect moment.
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Yes, Riley has an extensive gallery of stunning mountain images to breathe taking beach scenes.
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Yes, Riley Thomas Media sells custom fine art prints throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, including but not limited to: Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, Carbondale, and Glenwood Springs.

