While I complain often about the cold, I love being back home in Iowa for break. The people, the places, the memories and yes even the snow, are just some of the things that make this state so beautiful. Dare I say picturesque, even.

That’s exactly what my friend Andrew thought when he picked up his GoPro one day, originally used to capture his study abroad trip in Australia, and started capturing everything that makes Iowa, well, Iowa.

His pictures are beautiful and creative and are sure to make any Iowan proud, and make any outsider want to visit. Why? Because #ThisIsIowa.

(all photos shot by Andrew Broderick.)

Like chilly walks with your furry sidekick.

Where guns aren’t the only things we shoot in the winter…

And the woods are for more than just hunting.

Where summers are spent on the rivers…

And the old railroad bridges connect our little towns.

Where we are happy to spend our Saturdays in the city (Iowa City)…

And spend any other day in the country.

Where golf games are casual…

And Okoboji is always calling.

Where farmer’s market tents…

Meet modern architecture in the heart of Des Moines.

And where the sunsets are second to none.

This Is Iowa.

Want more? Keep up with Andrew by following him on Instagram.

See photos from other talented and creative Iowa photographers by liking Andrew’s Facebook page Explore Iowa.

Plus, watch this awesome Des Moines highlight video shot by Lee Robinson, co-creator of Expore Iowa. These guys are onto something awesome.