Award-winning Park City photographer turns nature into art

David Winegar. Photo: Dana Klein

PARK CITY, Utah — David Winegar discovered his passion for photography in the age of film, long before digital cameras dominated the market. Though he’d been shooting for years, it wasn’t until 2004 that he first shared his work publicly at The Canyons Farmers Market.

A chance encounter with a red fox would prove transformative for his career. After noticing the fox’s daily routine in a specific area, Winegar knew he needed patience and strategy – the animal would bolt at the slightest car movement. One evening, he positioned himself well in advance and his patience paid off. As he watched, the fox caught two Uinta ground squirrels, allowing him to capture a dramatic mid-jump shot. That image would go on to win an international photography competition in 2007 and now serves as the signature piece at Swaner Preserve’s Great Room.

Success followed success. Winegar’s work became a fixture at local exhibitions, from the Park City Artists Association Spring Into Art Showcase to the Park Silly Sunday Market. His recent selection for the Springville 100, Utah’s premier art show, marked another milestone in his career. But perhaps his most striking achievement came from a return to his roots – black-and-white photography. His piece “Lonely Bristlecone Pine” took first place at the Intermountain Professional Photography Print competition, the result of careful planning and persistence. Having photographed the ancient tree at Dead Horse Point State Park before, Winegar envisioned it against a starlit sky. Working through the night with long-exposure techniques, he captured his vision at 11 p.m., then continued shooting at various locations until reaching Mesa Arch at sunrise.

For Winegar, photography knows no bounds. His recent award in street photography proves his versatility, though he maintains a simple criterion: he photographs whatever “pulls on my heartstrings.” This passion serves as his gateway to the outdoors, complementing his lifelong love of fly-fishing, hiking, biking and skiing.

His connection to wildlife runs deep. When news broke of Grizzly No. 399’s death in Yellowstone National Park, Winegar shared his 2011 photographs of the beloved bear on Nextdoor, demonstrating his commitment to serving the local community despite his extensive travels.

Since trading his pilot’s career for early retirement, Winegar devotes several hours daily to mastering his craft through photography books and online tutorials. Recently, he began sharing his expertise through private lessons, teaching both technical skills and practical application in the field.

To explore Winegar’s work, visit his website or contact him via email.