Known for hopping trains and taking solo road trips in the middle of the night, RANGE contributor Molly Steele has quickly become an acclaimed photographer. Playing by her own rules and bringing her camera along the way, Molly invites viewers to join in on her experiences into the “wild” unknown.
A strong personal relationship with nature has played a big role in Molly’s photography, but it’s in her recent work that she’s embarked on more collaborative adventures. This year, she’s hiked through the Mojave Desert with Juniper Ridge, explored the Australian Outback with the Adventure Handbook, and built tree forts in Angels Crest with photographer Kevin Russ. It’s in these shared experiences that Molly has begun to enjoy interpersonal connections in nature. “My life changed when I opened up to traveling with other people. Suddenly not only my work, but also my lifestyle became collaborative. There was a bending or shaping there. I’m not sure of the effect really. Artistically, I think it made me more flexible and interested, and on many occasions, I have felt more supported. Most of all, I am happier and feel more understood.”
Through all of her connections, both personal and interpersonal, Molly has undoubtedly found her voice, capturing nature and people in a way that’s both energizing and unapologetic. The untamed nature of her photographs is what draws us to her work and feeds our passion for the outdoors. It’s what makes her work so captivating. It’s what makes Molly, well, Molly.
This article was originally published in RANGE Magazine Issue Four.
Images by Molly Steele.
XX LISA
