John Fielder was a photographer known for his images of Colorado’s natural beauty.
- Died: August 11, 2023 (Who else died on August 11?)
- Details of death: Died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 73.
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John Fielder’s legacy
Fielder worked as a photographer for 50 years, beginning in 1973. Born in Washington, D.C., he made Colorado his home as an adult, and he turned a love for photography from a hobby into a career. Among his most well-known works was the bestseller “Colorado 1870–2000,” in which he recreated historic photos of Colorado taken in the 19th century by William Henry Jackson. It was one of more than 50 books featuring Fielder’s photos, including coffee table books focusing on his work as well as books by others. His photos were also featured in calendars and travel guides.
As he shared the beauty of his state, Fielder also worked to preserve that beauty. He was a supporter of environmental and conservationist causes, and he submitted photos of Colorado to Congress as part of his efforts. He was honored by the Sierra Club with their 1993 Ansel Adams Award and received an achievement award in 2011 from the Aldo Leopold Foundation. Just months before his death, Fielder released his entire collection of photographs into the public domain.
Fielder on Rocky Mountain National Park
“I never get tired of being in places like this. It’s my medicine. I’ve been to the park 100 times in the last 40 years. And it gets better, actually, each time that I come here.” —from a 2015 interview for CBS News
Tributes to John Fielder
Full obituary: The Colorado Sun
