Early Light
All the pros speak of magic light, either dawn or shortly thereafter and an hour or so before sunset. While I tend to be an early-bird, I rarely find the motivation to wake up, dress for the cold, pack my equipment and head out for those good morning shots. Afternoon seems to appeal more to my senses; however, this morning was a little different.Living in the heart of Southern Oregon affords locals many near-by places to camp. This time, late August a few of us headed out to Squaw Lake, 10 or so miles from the Applegate Dam. Ahhh, the joys of car camping – I’ve really come to appreciate 3-day jaunts out, just me, my car, my tent and sleeping bag. Oh yeah, and my camera. Despite the numerous warnings not to feed the bears, I slept quite well and awoke around 6am. Stay in my bag or head out and shoot pictures. I guess I wouldn’t be writing this if I didn’t go out for a while and shoot.
There is something magical about early morning light, especially when you are nestled within a valley by the lake. I headed off down the road, ears and eyes alert for bears and captured some great images.
(mouse over for larger image)
One image in particular repeatedly receives attention. It’s my Monet and I call it Squaw Sunrise. At the shore of our campsite, I zoomed in on distant water lilies, well probably water weeds, but they were everywhere. Mind you, the lake remained in shadow, but the mountain walls were beginning to receive light. The mountains reflecting off the spots of water not covered in plants sparkled gold.
To this day, I’m still not fond of leaving a warm bed, but this image speaks to me softly, “explore early light”.
Tags: morning, reflection, yellow
