The Through the Lens series offers insight to some of the best destinations in the world from the perspective of some of our favorite photographers.

Have you ever seen a photo that just makes you want to get up and do something? Ray J. Gadd has made a career of those shots, seeking out deep snow, lazy river bends, roaring surf, and everything in between as one of Idaho's premier lensman. Born and raised in the Gem State, Ray has made a career out of telling stories in mountain communities around the West. Now living in Ketchum, Idaho, at the base of Sun Valley Resort, Gadd keeps it a little closer to home these days, but it doesn't mean the all-season adventures aren't still a-plenty.

We tapped Ray to get the inside scoop on his little slice of heaven and a look at America's first mountain town, Ketchum, Idaho, through the lens.

Best Cup of Coffee

A cappuccino from Maude’s Coffee & Clothes is my go-to jam. First and foremost, the coffee is well done all the way around. The other perks come in the way of the friendly staff, likelihood of running into a friend or 10, and perusing some mighty fine vintage finds.

Favorite Cocktail

Michel’s Christiania is a bit of an institution thanks to the storied personality of former women’s downhill ski racing coach, Michel Rudigoz. The cuisine is French but I’m going for their Manhattan and shoestring fries from the bar.

Favorite Quick Bite

The Hoka sando from Johnny G’s Subshack gets it done. Turkey, sprouts, avo, and a perfectly toast baguette. They have a slew of other creations on the board, and I’m often tempted by the specials of the day.

Best Sunrise

If the legs are there, ski touring up to the top of Bald Mountain in the winter is hands down the best spot to catch the sunrise. The best part is soaking in the beaming rays as you shred down the fresh cord.

Favorite Spot for a Night Out

I’m old, have a wife, a kiddo, and a dog. Hanging with them in the backyard would be my preferred place to be. If I was dragged out, I’d say the Casino. Not too many ski towns can say they have a dive bar downtown on the main drag that still pours a proper drink, offers pool, foosball, and pull tabs.

Best People Watching

River Run Day Lodge is the best place to see all walks of skiers and boarders. You’ve got attire and attitude from humble denim rockers to the Fendi fanatics. My favorite observations come from the diversity of ski carrying tactics.

Best Place to Get Outside

The Pioneer Mountains in the winter. The beach at Redfish Lake in the summer.

Best Outdoor Activity

Mountain biking in the summer, sled assisted skiing in the winter.

Favorite Ski Zones

Come out here and I might show you.

Best Après

Apple’s Bar & Grill beckons with their tachos and tall Tecates. You’re likely to bump into some of the local legends that find solace from the touristy resort lodges.

Best Season

Fall is amazing here. The trails are empty, the fishing is tasty, and the weather is prime.

Favorite Tourist Trap

It’s not a trap but the tourists have been increasingly flocking to Grumpy’s like the salmon to Capistrano. It never ceases to amaze me that I can find a new hidden treasure somewhere on the wall amidst the heaps of kitschy décor. The burgers are simple, the beers are big, and the pickled eggs hit the spot.

Why Ketchum and Sun Valley?

The people, the lack of pretentiousness, the culture, and the access to the outdoors keep us here for the long haul. The closest interstate is over an hour away but you can still fly in and out.