Tulips in Bloom: A Springtime Journey Through Holland, Michigan
Each May, Holland, Michigan transforms into a vibrant canvas of color and culture during the Tulip Time Festival. For me, this celebration is more than just a floral showcase—it's a cherished tradition. From walking downtown with friends, tossing a frisbee in the park, sipping coffee and smoothies, to visiting Cherry Republic, the festival is a sensory delight. One of my favorite views during the festival was from Riverview Park located beside Window On The Waterfront, right beside the Macatawa River. From the park’s overlook, we admired Windmill Island across the swampy waters—a tranquil scene framed by nature and rich with nostalgia.
Fog, Foliage, and Grandeur: A Timeless Autumn at the Mt. Washington Hotel
A couple of years ago, I found myself standing before the majestic Mt. Washington Hotel, camera in hand, as nature staged one of its most breathtaking performances. Fog hung delicately below the peak of Mount Washington, creating a soft veil that added mystery to the mountain’s rugged silhouette. The trees were just beginning to shift into their autumn attire—splashes of gold, amber, and crimson hinting at the season’s arrival.
Lake of the Clouds: A Misty Morning Memory in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
There’s something magical about waking up early, packing your gear, and heading into the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. On a quiet summer morning, I drove my red Jeep Wrangler up winding roads through the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, chasing a moment I hoped to capture — one that would later become a centerpiece of my MI Puzzles collection.
From Crazy Woman Canyon to Cowboy Boots: A Rodeo Dream Realized
In the fall of 2022, my wife and I finally made it to the Black Hills Roundup Rodeo in Belle Fourche, South Dakota—a stop we had planned nearly two decades earlier. Back in 2008, we were pulling our trailer westward toward Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons with our kids, a couple of tents, and a Dodge Durango packed with totes. That trip was unforgettable, not just for the scenery, but for the unexpected detour down Crazy Woman Canyon Road.
The Ruins: Echoes of Copper and Childhood in Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula
Tucked deep in the rugged beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula lies a haunting relic of the past—an old copper mine building, now a canvas of graffiti and shattered glass. This forgotten structure, located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, once pulsed with the energy of industry. Today, it stands as a monument to both history and imagination, immortalized in a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle titled “The Ruins” by photographer Phil Stagg.
Discover Tranquility Piece by Piece: A Stunning Lake Superior Puzzle Experience
Immerse yourself in the peaceful majesty of Michigan with a puzzle that’s as breathtaking as the landscape it portrays. This exquisite 1000-piece puzzle captures a radiant sunset over Lake Superior at the mouth of the Hurricane River, nestled within the iconic Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Known for its dramatic cliffs and pristine waters, this scene reveals the lake’s gentler side—calm, golden, and utterly captivating.
The Elk: A Winter Sentinel of Yellowstone
In the heart of Yellowstone National Park, winter transforms the landscape into a quiet, snow-covered sanctuary. It’s here, in this serene setting, that a powerful image was captured—an elk standing tall and still, surrounded by the soft hush of snow. This moment, frozen in time, is now the centerpiece of a 500-piece puzzle titled “The Elk.”
Exploring the Everglades: A Journey Through Nature on the Boardwalks
Back in the spring of 2020, just before the world changed in so many ways, my wife Cindy and I took our youngest son, Luke, on a trip to celebrate his upcoming high school graduation. We wanted to do something special—something that would leave a lasting impression. So we packed our bags and headed south to one of the most unique ecosystems in the world: the Everglades.
Unveiling Jackson Square: History, Culture, and Festivities in the French Quarter
Jackson Square, nestled in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a vibrant testament to the city's rich history and cultural tapestry. This iconic landmark, originally known as Place d'Armes, has been a central gathering place since its inception in 1721. Renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, the square is home to a striking equestrian statue of Jackson, sculpted by Clark Mills and erected in 1856.
Firefall Magic: Our Unforgettable Yosemite Adventure
A few years ago, my wife and I embarked on an unforgettable journey around California, and one of the highlights was witnessing the awe-inspiring Firefall phenomenon at Horsetail Fall in Yosemite National Park. This blog post will share some fascinating facts about the Firefall and recount our incredible experience exploring Yosemite and its majestic sequoia trees.
Only the Brave: Conquer the Flames with FISH BOIL FURY from the Insanity Series
Welcome to the latest addition to our Insanity Series from MI Puzzles by Phil Stagg Photography! We're thrilled to introduce the FISH BOIL FURY, a captivating and challenging 1000-piece puzzle that captures the essence of a beloved tradition from Door County, Wisconsin.
A Glimpse Down the Street: Capturing Savannah's Plant Riverside
Savannah, Georgia, is a city that effortlessly blends historic charm with modern vibrancy. On my first visit, I found myself looking down a picturesque street towards the lively Plant Riverside District. This moment, with its mix of historic architecture and contemporary energy, was too perfect not to capture. The resulting photo has since become a favorite, embodying the unique spirit of Savannah.
Capturing the Magic: Miners Castle and the Northern Lights
A couple of years ago, I embarked on a photographic adventure that led me to one of the most breathtaking sights I've ever witnessed. As a photographer and the founder of Phil Stagg Photography, I have always been drawn to the natural beauty of Michigan. This particular journey took me to Miners Castle, a stunning rock formation along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, with the Northern Lights dancing in the background over Lake Superior. The result was a mesmerizing photo that I later transformed into a 500-piece puzzle for my brand, MI Puzzles.
Discovering Grand Rapids, Michigan: The Iconic Blue Bridge
Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and dynamic arts scene. Nestled along the Grand River, this bustling metropolis offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern innovation. Among its many landmarks, the Blue Bridge stands out as a symbol of the city's architectural beauty and historical significance.
The Fascinating World of Morels: An Adventure with Phil Stagg
Hello, fellow nature enthusiasts! I’m Phil Stagg, the creator of MI Puzzles, and I’m excited to introduce you to my latest creation: “The Morel.” This piece features a stunning photograph I captured years ago, showcasing a beautiful morel mushroom nestled among a vibrant, lush forest floor. As we transition from our previous morels puzzle, I wanted to share not only the beauty of this image but also some fascinating facts about these unique fungi.
Capturing the Charm of Round Island Lighthouse: A Summer Day with Phil Stagg
There’s a unique beauty to lighthouses, standing as timeless guardians along our coastlines. A couple years back, I had the pleasure of photographing Round Island Lighthouse on a perfect summer day. With a brilliant blue sky adorned with fluffy pink clouds, this picturesque scene has now been transformed into a cherished 500-piece puzzle.
Capturing Sturgeon Point Lighthouse: A Day in the Life of a Photographer
There’s something magical about lighthouses, standing tall against the elements and guiding sailors safely to shore. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, a stunning structure that perfectly embodies the charm of these coastal sentinels. With its white exterior and vibrant red window shutters and doors, this lighthouse is a sight to behold, especially against a backdrop of a cloudy blue sky.
Capturing Paradise: A Sunset on the Beach with Phil Stagg
As a photographer, there’s nothing quite like the magic of a sunset on the beach. Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing one such moment in Florida, where the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. This stunning scene, featuring swaying palm trees silhouetted against a breathtaking sunset, has now become a cherished 500-piece puzzle.
Discovering the Historic Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse: A Journey with Phil Stagg
Join me on an adventure to one of Florida’s most iconic landmarks, the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse. As a photographer, capturing the essence of such a historic and picturesque site is both a challenge and a joy. This lighthouse, with its rich history and stunning views, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity.
Discovering the Iconic Roosevelt Bridge: A Journey with Wesley Stagg
Picture this: a sunny day in Stuart, Florida, and I’m on a mission to find the perfect cup of coffee. My parents, Phil and Cindy Stagg, and I were shopping downtown when we decided to take a break, get some coffee, and explore some other parts of Stuart. Little did I know, our caffeine quest would lead us to the majestic Roosevelt Bridge. Yes, folks, we were just a few hundred feet away from a photo-worthy spot, but our radar was set to Gilbert’s Coffee Bar. As I sipped my latte, and walked along the pier, I had no idea that a short stroll farther would reveal one of the most stunning views in Florida. Sometimes, the best discoveries happen when you’re just trying to get your caffeine fix!