Incubus at Red Rocks 

Boulder’s Finest Shutterbug: Lenny Lensworth Frieling Honored as AboutBoulder’s Photographer of the Year

In a stunning display of artistic brilliance and community spirit, Lenny Lensworth Frieling, a distinguished Boulder attorney and former judge, has been named AboutBoulder‘s Photographer of the Year. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Frieling’s exceptional talent and his deep-rooted love for Boulder, a city he has called home for decades longer than any other place he’s lived. Boulder has been his home for the last 48 years. He appeared in the Boulder Valley with a U-Haul, six weeks after graduating Rutgers Law School in Newark NJ.  He had never lived anywhere for more than five years. His parents, with Lensworth in tow, moved 500 miles every 5 years. Nowhere had mountains, even though they were in Lensworth’s heart from the first time he saw a tiny New Jersey hill.

Lenny says “I only came to Boulder once. I just never left.” “As I drove on Hwy 36 into the Boulder Valley, as I reached the scenic overlook, with the stunning Valley that would be my home for at least the next 4 or 5 decades stretched out in front of me, my 8 track started playing Blind Faith, In The Presence of the Lord. That synchronicity still brings tears to my eyes, knowing that I was in the presence of the Lord. It reinforced that I was doing the right thing in forfeiting the New Jersey Mercedes for a U-Haul and a Chevy Nova.”

Long Lake from between Brainard and Long, looking West at the Continental Dived

Lenny Lensworth Frieling’s journey with the lens has been nothing short of extraordinary. His photographs, ranging from the majestic lions at the local zoo to the breathtaking landscapes of the Indian Peaks, have captivated viewers and set numerous records on AboutBoulder. His keen eye for beauty extends to the diverse birds and wildlife found in his backyard and across the Boulder area, making his work a vibrant tapestry of local fauna and flora.

Lions, Denver Zoo, staring at Debi Dodge, Lensworth’s wife of 38 years. She’s the REAL animal whisperer

What sets Frieling apart is not just his unparalleled skill behind the camera, but his unwavering commitment to the Boulder community. He has been a beacon of inspiration, a mentor to aspiring photographers, and a beloved figure who continually brings joy and laughter through his work. His photographs are more than just images; they are stories of nature’s splendor and a reflection of the community’s spirit.

The award of Photographer of the Year is a well-deserved honor for Frieling. His dedication to his craft and his community is evident in every shot he takes. As a true mentor and a great member of the Boulder community, his contributions go beyond photography. He embodies the spirit of Boulder, capturing not only its visual essence but its heart and soul.

A pair of “large tree nymph” butterflies

As we congratulate Lenny Lensworth Frieling on this remarkable achievement, we are reminded of the power of photography to connect, inspire, and bring communities together. His work is a shining example of how passion and dedication can create a lasting impact.

On behalf of Boulder and its residents, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Frieling for enriching our lives with his stunning visuals and uplifting presence. Lenny, you are indeed number one, and your work continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for us all.

Black and White can be great fun! It adds drama to a picture. This one becomes literally dramatic because it is black and white.

A favorite picture is this blurred black and white, in the spirit of Capra and Bresson. Lensworth captured the moment. This is Anita Thompson, widow of the great Gonzo journalist and great American writer, Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, with Keith Stroup. Keith created NORML, the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws in 1970.  Anita had just received an award for years of being a great supporter of NORML and of the NORML Legal Committee.

Thank you, Lenny Lensworth Frieling for being a true inspiration and for all that you do for Boulder. Keep capturing the beauty around us and spreading joy in the community.

AboutBoulder Team

Silhouette of a pair of doves

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