Lucian Manthey: Colorado's Young Landscape Photographer

Young man standing in a forest of golden aspen trees in Colorado.

Lucian Manthey is an 18 year old photographer based in Denver, Colorado, and a current senior at Denver East High School. Whether he's capturing the majesty of snow-capped peaks, the vibrant colors of a sunrise, or the rugged beauty of the desert, Lucian's photographs remind us of the awe-inspiring power of nature and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.

From the jagged peaks of the Rockies to the wide-open landscapes of the Great Plains, Lucian’s drive to explore and create has shaped a growing portfolio of bold and striking images. His work reflects his adventurous spirit, creative vision, and deep appreciation for the land.

Lucian’s photography has been featured in publications like F-Stop Magazine, Summit Daily News, and The Colorado Springs Gazette, and has been used by brands such as Rivian Automotive and Ikon Pass.

Person sitting on rocky mountain overlook, wearing purple jacket, with snow patches and expansive mountain view.
Person photographing nature on a forest boardwalk, wearing a purple jacket and straw hat.

As a proud citizen of the Osage Nation and member of Nature First: The Alliance for Responsible Nature Photography, Lucian is dedicated to promoting ethical practices in his photography. He believes that nature’s beauty speaks for itself and should be captured truthfully, without excessive manipulation or harmful impact. As a strong advocate for conservation, Lucian follows the Nature First Principles, which emphasize putting the well-being of the land above photography, minimizing harmful impact, and encouraging responsible environmental stewardship. Through his work, he hopes to inspire others to appreciate and protect these landscapes while ensuring that photography remains a force for conservation, not exploitation.

Photographer looking at camera under the Northern Lights in Colorado.
Young photographer photographing fall colors in Colorado.
Young male photographer with camera and tripod on a beach.