Xiaofeng Liu, PhD

Photo Stories

I have been fortunate enough to work with some of the most brilliant researchers.

A persistent effort of reading, thinking, doing, and collaborating concentrated

in these articles. Presenting them is, however, a complete other world.

California
The last touch of color at Rainbow Pier in 2011
As 2011 faded, Rainbow Harbor glowed in sunset hues and quiet reflection. Despite fog veiling the fireworks, the evening became a serene farewell—and a quiet lesson in embracing disappointment.
California
Christmas Eve Pier Light Parade
Santa Barbara’s Parade of Lights brought whimsical boats, festive lights, and candy cane dreams to Stearns Wharf—ending in a stunning fireworks display that lit the sea and sky with holiday magic.
Death Valley
Death Valley: Itinerary Guide and Attractions Preview
A four-day Thanksgiving journey through Death Valley revealed surreal landscapes, vivid geology, and quiet wonder—where frost met desert heat, and timeless beauty unfolded across canyons, dunes, and snow-capped peaks.
California
Magical colors in the Alabama Hills in early winter
The Alabama Hills shimmered with gold by day and stars by night. These ancient, cinematic rocks offered surreal beauty, vivid contrasts, and quiet moments that linger far beyond the lens and journey.
Death Valley
An Alien World: Golden Canyon in Death Valley
Golden Canyon’s vivid landscapes, layered rocks, and haunting silence offer a surreal journey through Death Valley’s geological past—an unforgettable 8-kilometer hike beneath a blazing sun and endless sky.
Death Valley
The Sand Dunes below Sea Level
A golden afternoon in Death Canyon reveals the serene beauty of Mosaic Canyon and Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes—where shifting light, delicate textures, and timeless landscapes awaken awe in every step.
Death Valley
Walk into the Geological Museum at the Mosaic Canyon in Death Valley
Mosaic Canyon reveals Death Valley’s silent wonders—twisting stone corridors, ancient riverbeds, and colorful rock walls etched by time. A surreal blend of geology and solitude, it feels like walking through Earth’s memory.
Channel Islands
A Visit to Santa Cruz Island (Part II)
A vivid journey across Santa Cruz Island reveals surreal landscapes, Martian-like plants, and breathtaking views—culminating in a mountaintop moment that captures the quiet magic of nature’s untouched beauty.
Channel Islands
A Visit to Santa Cruz Island (Part I)
Escaping Halloween’s chaos, we journeyed to Santa Cruz Island—where misty peaks, rusted relics, and resilient plants told quiet stories of nature, history, and renewal under Southern California’s autumn sun.