
#WhyCV Photographer Spotlight: Dwayne Hicks
“When you’re finished photographing something in front of you, always turn around and see what’s behind you, or you’ll miss it”.
Each month, in 2020, we’ve highlighted a local photographer whose views of Carson Valley, and beyond, expand the way we look at everyday things around us. Their patience to capture the perfect shot, or their unique view of the everyday transports us for just a moment, into another time and place.
This is true of Dwayne Hicks in many ways. His astro-photography is out of this world, his wildlife photography has won accolades, and his landscapes can take your breath away. Scroll through this small selection of his photos to learn more about the man behind the lens. His career in the Army instilled his passion for travel, but he truly considers Carson Valley his home. To follow along on his adventures check out Carson Valley Tours, and be sure to check out his photography Facebook and Instagram pages.
Reach out to Dwayne for photography classes or tours at [email protected]



Dwayne got the eagle-shooting bug a year before when he first went on a wildlife tour with John T. Humphrey, well known photographer and local wild animal expert. Were it not for John’s patience and skill that day, Dwayne would have given up long before this shot became a reality. That first outing, the two sat in snow up to their chests, freezing, and gradually moving closer to an elusive pair of eagles. John loaned Dwayne his 600mm lens, and after that Dwayne was hooked on perfecting his bird photography.
As Dwayne jokes about this photo “You can tell its a male bird sitting on the branch ‘cause of the stupid look on its face”.
Pro tips: “We’re all students, all the time. Everyone has something to teach, even someone with a cell phone can teach me.”
“When you’re finished photographing something in front of you, always turn around and see what’s behind you, or you’ll miss it”.








Pro tip: Listen to that inner voice and shoot all the pictures you want. Something may come out on the other end that’s fabulous and unexpected.





