From 4-H Roots to Breathtaking Landscapes: The Inspiring Journey of Photographer Adam Reinert

What commenced as a childhood 4-H endeavor has transformed into a pastime and ultimately a business for nature and landscape photographer Adam Reinert.

“I have always kept photography somewhat in the back of my mind,” Reinert mentioned recently while talking about his enthusiasm for photography. “It began as a 4-H project when I was around 10, and I sustained that interest throughout my entire 4-H journey.”

Reinert was introduced to photography at an early age by his mother, Lisa, who worked as a portrait photographer.

“She always had her camera, so it was a straightforward (4-H) project for my siblings and I to pursue,” he said.

As a participant in the Country Cousins 4-H club, Reinert earned several ribbons for his photographs at the Mills County Fair. He typically had at least one of his submissions chosen for competition at the Iowa State Fair.

“It was enjoyable to achieve success, which served as a strong incentive to continue with the project,” he noted.

Reinert graduated from Glenwood Community High School in 2006 and proceeded to Iowa State University, where he studied finance and accounting. He never enrolled in formal photography courses while obtaining his degree at ISU. He still relished taking outdoor photographs when time permitted during college, but “didn’t take photography seriously” until he completed his studies.

“Initially, it was just like a pastime – sharing photos online and on social media,” he remarked. “Eventually, I started receiving requests for prints, and it gradually developed into a business.”

Some of the earliest photos Reinert was asked for were images of vintage farm machinery owned by his grandfather. Pictures he had captured on the ISU campus and nature scenes in Mills County and other parts of Iowa were also in demand.
In 2016, the hobby transitioned into a business – Reinert Images.

Currently, Reinert travels across the nation with the objective of “capturing the stunning beauty of our natural environment.”

Yellowstone, the Tetons, Rocky Mountains, Iowa, South Dakota, Minnesota, Montana, Hawaii, Florida, and Boston are among the locations Reinert has photographed.

“I adore the mountains. Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park are two of my favorites,” he expressed. “I have deep connections here in Glenwood and Iowa as a whole. There are numerous places I enjoy shooting around here as well. The Loess Hills are gorgeous, and the Iowa State campus is another beloved location of mine to photograph.”

One of Reinert’s favorite photographs is one he captured during a late autumn camping trip. He initially set up camp in Yellowstone, but a winter storm a few days into the adventure compelled him to head south and establish camp in the Tetons. He wanted to avoid the risk of getting snowed in at Yellowstone.

“When I reached the Tetons, there wasn’t any snow on the mountains yet,” he stated. “Fall in the Tetons is beautiful regardless, but I was hoping for some snow on the peaks, so I pitched my campsite and went to sleep. The following morning, I was greeted with a delightful surprise – fresh powder and a new layer of snow on the mountains.

“I believe it wouldn’t be nearly as captivating or nearly as excellent of a photo if it lacked the snow.”

Despite lacking formal education in photography, Reinert mentioned there are several photographers he admires – Tom Mangelsen, Art Wolfe, and Mills County’s own John Scanlan, a long-time friend of the Reinert family, to name a few.
When Reinert embarks on a journey to photograph a specific natural location, he makes it a point not to check how other photographers have captured his destination.

“I aim to create my own shot rather than replicate someone else’s work.”

Reinert has a personal ambition to visit and photograph all 63 national parks. He has managed to reach around 20 thus far. He also has numerous state parks in mind and other picturesque areas in nature he wishes to explore. Through his images, he aspires to share and foster an appreciation for the natural splendor of our nation.

“Through my photography, I seek to convey the awe and wonder I experience in nature, inviting others to view the world through my perspective and discover the magic that resides in every corner of our country,” he expresses on his website.
Reinert’s images can be viewed and acquired through his website or Facebook page. He also markets his works at regional art fairs throughout the year. Custom sizing and framing options are offered. Furthermore, several of Reinert’s most sought-after photographs are displayed in a gallery established in the Warren Jewelry store building on the southwest corner of Glenwood’s Town Square.

“My grandparents still possess the building here, and my grandpa enjoys having it (the gallery) here,” Reinert mentioned.

Reinert resides in Des Moines, where he works as an accountant for an insurance firm. He frequently returns to Glenwood to open his gallery for private exhibitions and special occasions such as the annual Shop Hop and Glenwood Holiday Festival.