Our heartfelt thanks to the winner of our 2014 Instagram Contest, Jake Stewart, of Colorado Springs, Colo. Stewart made it through a massive round of editor’s picks followed by reader voting on the Top Ten. We hope you enjoy that Sierra Designs tent Jake and put it to good use! Thanks for sharing your story with us!

Q: HOMETOWN?

Originally from Wichita KS, now living in Colorado Springs

Q: CAMERA/LENS USED FOR SHOT?

I used a Nikon D800 with a Nikkor 85mm 1.8 lens.

Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN SHOOTING PHOTOS?

I’ve shot photos in one form or another all my life, from Kodak and Fuji disposables in the 90s to iPhones now. As far as pursuing photography as a bigger hobby, thats been a part of my life for 3 or 4 years now. Though its a much smaller part of my life than i would like it to be.

Q: WHERE WAS THIS SHOT TAKEN/DESCRIBE THE SCENE?

This shot was taken at Great Sand Dunes National Park. My friend and I had been wanting to go there and shoot some photos for sometime but due to scheduling issues our only opportunity ended up putting us there at midday. The sand was scorching and the wind was relentless. Despite it being a far from ideal setting for photography we were able to salvage some decent shots.

Q: WHERE IS YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY IN COLORADO?

My favorite outdoors spot in Colorado, so far (I’ve been here two years now), probably has to be the South Platte River region near Deckers. Theres plenty of good biking and hiking in that area and its a short drive from the Springs. I HAVEN’T had a chance to venture very much further west yet, but I hope to begin exploring further very soon.

Q: HOW CAN EO READERS CONTINUE TO FOLLOW YOUR WORK?

I post on 500px at www.500px.com/jstew and I’m on instagram @jmstew0319. Also I’m the 6th best looking Jake Stewart on Facebook, so just look for that guy.